Spanish Cream Cheese Flan Recipe

Dive into the delightful depths of Spanish cuisine with this traditional Cream Cheese Flan. This dessert is characteristically smooth, rich, and wonderfully sweet. With a caramel topping that adds a perfect contrast to the creamy custard base, this dish is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Easy to make and even better to enjoy, this recipe is ideal for a classy dinner party dessert or a special treat for the family.

Photos of Spanish Cream Cheese Flan Recipe

The ingredients for this recipe are fairly common and should be easily found in your local supermarket. However, you should pay particular attention when buying the cream cheese. Ensure you're getting the full-fat version, as this will yield the creamiest and most flavorful flan. Also, for the sweetened condensed milk and evaporated milk, make sure not to mix them up as they are not the same. Sweetened condensed milk has sugar while evaporated milk doesn't.

Cream Cheese Flan Ingredients Explained

Granulated sugar: It's used twice in the recipe - first, for making caramel topping and then for blending with cream cheese. Choose a good quality one for the best results.

Warm water: Helps dissolve the sugar and create the right consistency for the caramel topping.

Cream cheese: The star ingredient of the dish, it gives the flan its creamy, rich texture and flavor.

Eggs: They act as the binding agent for the flan, giving it a stable, custard-like structure.

Sweetened condensed milk: This is what gives the flan its sweetness and creamy texture.

Evaporated milk: It's used in combination with sweetened condensed milk to make the custard base of the flan.

Vanilla extract: It enhances the overall flavor profile of the flan.

One reader, Keen Reichert says:

This Spanish cream cheese flan recipe is a game-changer! The creamy texture and rich caramel topping are simply divine. It's easy to make and impresses everyone. I love how it turns out perfectly every time. It's a must-try for any dessert lover!

Keen Reichert

Techniques Required for Making Spanish Cream Cheese Flan

How to make caramel topping: In a medium saucepan, whisk together granulated sugar and water. Set over medium heat, cook stirring constantly until sugar has dissolved and mixture begins to boil. Once boiling, stop stirring and let cook until it's nearing just an amber color. Remove from heat, let rest 5 seconds then add 1 tablespoon warm water. Whisk to blend. Immediately pour caramelized sugar into cake pan or 2-quart baking dish and carefully tilt in a circular motion to coat the entire surface of the bottom of the pan. Set aside.

How to make flan-custard mixture: In a large mixing bowl using an electric hand mixer, blend together cream cheese and 2 tablespoons sugar just until smooth. Mix in eggs one at a time, mixing until just combined after each addition. Then mix in sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract.

How to bake the flan: Pour milk mixture over caramel layer in the cake pan. Set the pan in a roasting pan large enough to fit with extra space surrounding. Pour in enough boiling water to reach about halfway up the sides of the cake pan. Bake for about 50 to 60 minutes until nearly set.

How to chill the flan: Carefully remove from the water bath (roasting pan with water) and set on a wire rack to cool for 1 hour. Transfer to the fridge and let chill for 4 hours.

How to unmold the flan: Run a sharp knife around the flan right up next to the pan, then place a large rimmed serving plate over the pan. While holding the plate in place, flip the flan to the opposite side and let it fall onto the plate.

How To Make Spanish Cream Cheese Flan

Learn how to make a traditional dessert with this flan recipe. The custard base is enriched with cream cheese and covered with a golden caramel sauce.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 1 hour

Total: 1 hour 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Caramel Topping:

¾cupgranulated sugar
¼cupwarm water,plus 1 tbsp

For Flan Custard Mixture:

8ozcream cheese,(1 package), well softened
2tbspgranulated sugar
4large eggs
14ozsweetened condensed milk,(1 can)
12ozevaporated milk,(1 can)
2tspvanilla extract

Instructions

Bring plenty of water to a boil in a pot or kettle to use as a water bath (the flan will be baked in a dish set in a roasting pan surrounded by the boiling water). Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

Caramel Topping:

Have an ungreased 9×2-inch cake pan ready or a 2-quart round baking dish or souffle pan.
In a medium saucepan, whisk together granulated sugar and water. Set over medium heat, cook stirring constantly until sugar has dissolved and mixture begins to boil.
Once boiling, stop stirring and let cook until it’s nearing just an amber color. Remove from heat, let rest 5 seconds then add 1 tablespoon warm water. Whisk to blend.
Immediately pour caramelized sugar into cake pan or 2-quart baking dish and carefully tilt in a circular motion to coat the entire surface of bottom of the pan. Set aside.

Flan-Custard Mixture:

In a large mixing bowl using an electric hand mixer, blend together cream cheese and 2 tabelspoons sugar just until smooth.
Mix in eggs one at a time, mixing until just combined after each addition. Then mix in sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk and vanilla extract.
Pour milk mixture over caramel layer in cake pan. Set pan in a roasting pan large enough to fit with extra space surrounding. Pour in enough boiling water to reach about halfway up the sides of the cake pan.
Bake for about 50 to 60 minutes until nearly set.
Carefully remove from water bath (roasting pan with water) and set on wire rack to cool for 1 hour. Transfer to fridge and let chill for 4 hours.
Run a sharp knife around the flan right up next to the pan, then place a large rimmed serving plate over the pan. While holding the plate in place, flip the flan to the opposite side and let it fall onto the plate.
Slice and serve. Store in refrigerator.

Nutrition

Calories: 436.62kcal
Fat: 19.62g
Saturated Fat: 10.92g
Trans Fat: 0.01g
Monounsaturated Fat: 5.56g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.16g
Carbohydrates: 54.60g
Sugar: 54.22g
Protein: 11.64g
Cholesterol: 153.38mg
Sodium: 247.67mg
Calcium: 294.22mg
Potassium: 388.52mg
Iron: 0.73mg
Vitamin A: 208.11µg
Vitamin C: 2.10mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Spanish Cream Cheese Flan Recipe

When making the caramel topping for your flan, it's crucial to keep a close eye on the sugar as it cooks. Sugar can quickly go from a beautiful amber color to burnt in a matter of seconds. The moment it reaches the desired color, remove it from the heat to stop the cooking process. Also, remember to handle the caramel with care as it's extremely hot and can cause severe burns.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Spanish Cream Cheese Flan Recipe

Prep ahead: Prepare the caramel topping and flan custard mixture the night before and store them separately in the refrigerator. This will save time on the day of baking.

Use a blender: Instead of using an electric hand mixer, blend the cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and milk in a blender for a quicker and smoother mixing process.

Bake in individual ramekins: To save time on serving, consider baking the flan in individual ramekins instead of a large cake pan. This will reduce the baking time and make for easier portioning.

Double the recipe: If you're expecting a large crowd, consider doubling the recipe and baking two flans at once to save time and effort.

Chill in the freezer: After the initial cooling period, transfer the flan to the freezer for a quicker setting process. Just be sure not to freeze it solid.

Substitute Ingredients For Spanish Cream Cheese Flan Recipe

cream cheese - Substitute with ricotta cheese: Ricotta cheese has a similar creamy texture and mild flavor that can work well in flan recipes.
sweetened condensed milk - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk can add a rich and creamy texture with a hint of coconut flavor, which complements the flan's sweetness.
evaporated milk - Substitute with whole milk: Whole milk can provide a similar richness and creaminess to the flan custard, although it may be slightly less rich than evaporated milk.
granulated sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can add a natural sweetness and a hint of floral flavor to the caramel topping, creating a unique twist on the traditional flan recipe.

How to Beautifully Present Spanish Cream Cheese Flan

Elevate the caramel topping: Drizzle the caramel in a circular motion on the plate to create an elegant and artistic design. Use a toothpick to create swirls or patterns for a sophisticated touch.
Garnish with fresh berries: Place a few fresh berries on the plate to add a pop of color and a burst of freshness to the creamy flan.
Add a dollop of whipped cream: Create a quenelle of whipped cream and place it alongside the flan for a luxurious and indulgent touch.
Sprinkle with edible flowers: Carefully place delicate and colorful edible flowers around the flan to add a touch of elegance and a hint of floral aroma.
Dust with powdered sugar: Lightly dust the plate with a fine sprinkle of powdered sugar for a subtle sweetness and a beautiful presentation.
Drizzle with caramel sauce: Create an artistic drizzle of caramel sauce on the plate to add a touch of sweetness and a visually appealing design.
Use a decorative plate: Choose a decorative plate to complement the colors of the flan and enhance the overall presentation.
Incorporate chocolate shavings: Sprinkle the plate with delicate chocolate shavings to add a hint of richness and a touch of sophistication to the dish.
Serve with a side of fresh mint: Place a small sprig of fresh mint on the plate to add a refreshing aroma and a vibrant green accent to the presentation.
Create a caramel lattice: Use a piping bag to create a delicate lattice pattern with caramel on the plate for a visually stunning and intricate design.

Essential Tools for Making Spanish Cream Cheese Flan Recipe

Pot or kettle: Used to boil water for the water bath.
Medium saucepan: Used to make the caramel topping.
9x2-inch cake pan or 2-quart round baking dish or souffle pan: Used to bake the flan.
Electric hand mixer: Used to blend the cream cheese and sugar for the flan-custard mixture.
Roasting pan: Used to create the water bath for baking the flan.
Wire rack: Used to cool the flan after baking.
Sharp knife: Used to loosen the edges of the flan from the pan.
Large rimmed serving plate: Used to flip the flan onto for serving.

Storing and Freezing Spanish Cream Cheese Flan

Here are the storing and freezing guidelines for Spanish cream cheese flan:

Storing in the fridge: Cover the flan tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The caramel will continue to soften the longer it sits, creating a deliciously gooey sauce.
Freezing individual slices:
1. Cut the flan into individual servings and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Freeze the slices until solid, about 2-3 hours.
3. Wrap each frozen slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag.
4. Label the container with the date and store in the freezer for up to 1 month.
5. To thaw, remove the desired number of slices from the freezer and let them defrost in the refrigerator overnight.
Freezing the whole flan:
1. Ensure the flan has cooled completely and is still in its baking dish.
2. Wrap the entire dish securely with a double layer of plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil.
3. Label the wrapped flan with the date and place it in the freezer for up to 1 month.
4. To thaw, remove the flan from the freezer and let it defrost in the refrigerator for 24-48 hours, depending on its size.
5. Once thawed, remove the wrapping and run a knife around the edge of the flan to loosen it before inverting onto a serving plate.

Interesting Fact About Spanish Cream Cheese Flan

Flan, a popular dessert in Spain, is believed to have originated from the Roman Empire. The dish was introduced to Europe by the Romans, and it eventually made its way to Spain. The creamy custard dessert has become a staple in Spanish cuisine and is often enjoyed during special occasions and family gatherings.

Is Making Spanish Cream Cheese Flan Recipe at Home Cost-Effective?

The Spanish cream cheese flan recipe is cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, including cream cheese, eggs, and sweetened condensed milk, are reasonably priced and readily available. The dessert offers a rich and creamy texture with a delightful caramel topping, making it a budget-friendly yet impressive treat. The approximate cost for a household of four people is around $10. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 9 out of 10, considering its affordability, delicious taste, and ease of preparation.

Is Spanish Cream Cheese Flan Healthy or Unhealthy?

The Spanish cream cheese flan recipe, while delicious, is not particularly healthy due to several factors:

High sugar content from the caramel topping, sweetened condensed milk, and added sugar
High fat content from the cream cheese and evaporated milk
Significant number of calories per serving due to the rich ingredients
Lack of nutritional value, as it primarily consists of sugar and fat without any notable vitamins or minerals

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of sugar used in the caramel topping and the flan mixture itself
Replace some or all of the cream cheese with a lower-fat alternative, such as Neufchâtel cheese or Greek yogurt
Use low-fat or fat-free versions of the sweetened condensed milk and evaporated milk to reduce the overall fat content
Incorporate fresh fruit, such as berries or sliced peaches, into the flan mixture or as a topping to add natural sweetness and boost the nutritional value
Serve smaller portions to control calorie intake, as this dessert is quite rich and indulgent

By making these adjustments, you can still enjoy the creamy, delectable flavor of the Spanish cream cheese flan while reducing its negative impact on your health. Remember, moderation is key when it comes to indulging in desserts like this one.

Editor's Opinion on Spanish Cream Cheese Flan Recipe

The Spanish cream cheese flan recipe is a delightful and indulgent dessert. The creamy texture of the flan, combined with the rich caramel topping, creates a perfect balance of sweetness. The use of cream cheese adds a unique and luxurious twist to the traditional flan, making it a standout dish. The instructions are clear and easy to follow, ensuring a successful outcome. This recipe is a wonderful choice for those looking to impress with a classic Spanish dessert that has a delightful twist.

Enhance Your Spanish Cream Cheese Flan Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Vegetables: Try serving the flan with a side of colorful roasted vegetables, such as carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini, for a delicious and nutritious contrast.

Grilled Chicken Breast: Pair the creamy flan with a juicy and flavorful grilled chicken breast for a satisfying and well-balanced meal.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing and light option to accompany the rich flan is a fresh fruit salad, featuring a mix of seasonal fruits like strawberries, pineapple, and kiwi.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: For a cozy and comforting combination, serve the flan with a warm and creamy tomato basil soup, perfect for a chilly evening.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Spanish Cream Cheese Flan

Mexican Street Corn: Grilled corn on the cob smothered in a creamy mixture of mayonnaise, sour cream, and spices, then topped with crumbled cheese and a sprinkle of cilantro.

Italian Meatball Pasta Bake: A hearty pasta dish featuring tender meatballs, marinara sauce, and melted cheese, all baked to perfection in the oven.

French Apple Tart: A beautiful dessert showcasing thinly sliced apples arranged in a circular pattern on top of a buttery, flaky pastry crust, then brushed with apricot glaze for a glossy finish.

Appetizers and Main Courses to Complement Spanish Cream Cheese Flan Recipe

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Impress your guests with these savory and indulgent stuffed mushrooms. The combination of creamy cheese, flavorful herbs, and earthy mushrooms will leave everyone wanting more.

Bruschetta: Elevate your appetizer game with these delicious bruschetta bites. The crispy bread, fresh tomatoes, and aromatic basil come together for a burst of flavor in every bite.

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Indulge in a creamy, decadent pasta dish that combines tender chicken with a rich, cheesy sauce. The flavors meld together perfectly for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Beef Stroganoff: Treat yourself to a hearty and flavorful dish featuring tender strips of beef in a creamy mushroom sauce. This classic comfort food is sure to please your taste buds.

Why trust this Spanish Cream Cheese Flan Recipe:

This recipe is a tried and true classic, using traditional Spanish flavors and techniques. The creamy texture of the flan is achieved through the perfect balance of cream cheese, sweetened condensed milk, and evaporated milk. The addition of vanilla extract enhances the rich flavors, while the homemade caramel topping adds a delightful sweetness. With a careful water bath baking method, this recipe ensures a smooth and silky custard every time. Trust in the combination of authentic ingredients and precise instructions to create a decadent Spanish cream cheese flan that will impress and delight.

Have you tried this Spanish Cream Cheese Flan Recipe? Share your experience and discuss any variations or tips in the Recipe Sharing forum.

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of pan for making the flan?

Yes, you can use a different type of pan, such as a round baking dish or souffle pan, as long as it has a 2-quart capacity and is oven-safe.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?

Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese, but keep in mind that it may affect the texture and richness of the flan.

Can I make the caramel topping in advance?

It's best to make the caramel topping just before pouring it into the pan, as it can harden as it sits. However, you can prepare it a few minutes ahead of time.

How do I know when the flan is done baking?

The flan is done when it is nearly set but still has a slight jiggle in the center. It will continue to set as it cools.

Can I make this flan ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the flan ahead of time. It's best to let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours before serving to allow it to set properly.