Queso Flan Caramel Custard Cheese (Printable Version)

# What You'll Need:

→ Caramel

01 - 200 g granulated sugar (may use half white sugar, half light brown sugar)

→ Custard

02 - 225 g full-fat cream cheese, softened
03 - 400 ml sweetened condensed milk
04 - 350 ml evaporated milk
05 - 5 large eggs
06 - 5 ml pure vanilla extract

# Step-by-Step Directions:

01 - In a small saucepan over medium heat, cook the sugar, stirring constantly, until fully melted and golden brown.
02 - Quickly pour the hot caramel into a round 20 cm baking dish or flanera, tilting to coat the bottom and sides evenly. Let the caramel harden and cool completely.
03 - Preheat the oven to 175°C.
04 - In a blender, combine cream cheese, sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth and homogenous.
05 - Pour the custard mixture over the cooled caramel layer in the prepared pan.
06 - Cover the pan tightly with aluminium foil. Set the pan into a larger deep roasting pan and fill the outer pan with hot water halfway up the sides.
07 - Carefully transfer to the oven and bake for 50–60 minutes, until the flan is set at the edges with a slight wobble in the centre.
08 - Remove the pan from the water bath and allow the flan to cool to room temperature. Refrigerate in the pan for at least 4 hours, or overnight, until fully chilled.
09 - Run a thin knife around the edges. Place a serving plate over the pan and invert to release the flan. Spoon any remaining caramel over the top before serving.

# Helpful Notes:

01 - For best texture, ensure the caramel has fully cooled and hardened before pouring in the custard mixture.
02 - Flan sets best if chilled thoroughly for several hours, allowing caramel to infuse the custard.
03 - For a deeper flavour, substitute half the vanilla extract with spiced dark rum.
04 - Use only evaporated milk rather than whole milk or cream to maintain authentic texture.