Carmen'S Flan
Carmen's Flan offers a rich, creamy custard with a caramelized sugar topping, blending smooth cream cheese and vanilla flavors—perfect for dessert lovers seeking a luscious treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put the cream cheese, condensed milk, milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract in a blender and mix thoroughly.
- In a 1-quart loaf or round pan, brown the sugar over low heat until caramelized; turn the pan to coat all sides with caramel.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture into the caramel-coated pan; cover with foil.
- Place the pan in a larger pan filled with water to create a water bath.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 hours.
- Invert the flan onto a plate to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve a smooth texture, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before blending. If you prefer a less sweet flan, reduce the sugar to 1/2 cup. For a twist, you can substitute half of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt for a lighter version. Be cautious when caramelizing sugar; it can burn quickly. If you’re short on time, consider using store-bought caramel sauce instead.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the flan chilled, drizzled with additional caramel sauce if desired. It pairs beautifully with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for added richness. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a light salad or as a sweet ending to your Taco Platter. This dessert is a delightful way to round off any Mexican recipes feast.
Storage & Reheating
After the flan has cooled completely, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. It can be stored for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or let them come to room temperature before serving. Avoid reheating the entire flan to maintain its texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Carmen'S Flan contains roughly 391 calories, with 5g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use low-fat cream cheese in this recipe?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese as a substitute. However, keep in mind that it may alter the texture slightly, making it less creamy. For the best results, avoid fat-free options as they can lead to a less satisfying flan.
What can I use if I don't have almond extract?
If you don't have almond extract, you can use an equal amount of vanilla extract or omit it altogether. Alternatively, a few drops of hazelnut extract can add a unique flavor. Just be sure to adjust to your taste preferences.
How do I know when the flan is done baking?
The flan is done when it has set around the edges but still has a slight jiggle in the center. You can check by inserting a knife or toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake, as it can become rubbery.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).