Leche Flan with Cream Cheese
Leche Flan (Caramel Custard) is my family’s all time favorite dessert. The decadent custard topped with the smooth caramel is such a delight to the eyes as well as to the palate. This recipe of leche flan with cream cheese takes this popular Filipino dessert to another level.
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 5 large eggs
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 can (370 ml evaporated milk)
- 1 can (300 ml sweetened condensed milk)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Preheat oven to 350° F.
- Place sugar in a 5X9 inch loaf pan over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally until sugar has dissolved and caramel in color. Remove pan from heat and set aside to cool for 5 minutes.
- Meanwhile, in a blender, combine and process eggs, cream cheese, evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk and vanilla until smooth.
- Pour mixture into prepared pan. Place it in another, larger, shallow baking pan and set it in the middle shelf of the oven. Pour enough hot water in the bigger pan to come halfway up the sides of the loaf pan.
- Bake for l hour and 20 minutes or until top is set. Allow to cool to room temperature before refrigerating for several hours or overnight. Run a clean knife around the edge before inverting onto a serving plate.
- Serve and enjoy!
Achieving the perfect leche flan can require a bit of finesse, but with some careful attention, it can turn out just right. First, when caramelizing the sugar, make sure to keep a close eye on it. Sugar can go from perfectly golden to burnt in a matter of seconds. Stirring gently while it melts can help you achieve an even color. Once it reaches a nice amber hue, immediately pour it into your prepared pan, tilting the pan to cover the bottom evenly before it hardens.
Another important tip is to avoid overmixing the custard. When combining the eggs and cream cheese, mix until just smooth. Overmixing can introduce air bubbles, which might cause the flan to have a bubbly texture instead of the smooth, creamy consistency everyone loves.
Steaming the flan is also crucial. If you don’t have a steamer, you can create one using a large pot with a rack or even a heat-proof bowl. Just make sure the water is simmering gently, not boiling vigorously, to ensure even cooking. Cover the flan with foil while it steams to prevent water from dripping onto the surface. Following these tips will help you serve a flan that’s creamy and decadent.
Leche flan is a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. For a classic presentation, slice it into wedges and serve it directly from the pan. The glossy caramel glaze will shine beautifully, making it visually appealing. Adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top can enhance the sweetness and balance flavors.
If you want to elevate the dessert, consider serving it with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creaminess of the ice cream pairs wonderfully with the flan, creating a delicious contrast. You could also add fresh fruits like mangoes or berries for a refreshing touch. The acidity of the fruits can help cut through the richness of the custard.
For special occasions, consider layering slices of leche flan with crushed graham crackers or even in trifle cups with layers of fruit and whipped cream. This not only adds texture but also makes for a fun presentation. Each bite will be a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a memorable treat for any gathering.
Can I substitute cream cheese with something else?
If you don’t have cream cheese, mascarpone can work as a great alternative. It will still give you that creamy texture, but it might be a bit sweeter, so adjust the sugar if needed.
How should I store leftover leche flan?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It should stay fresh for about 3-4 days, and the flavor actually gets better after a day or two.
Can I make this flan ahead of time?
Leche flan is perfect for making ahead of time. You can prepare it a day before your event, and just let it chill in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
What can I serve with leche flan?
Leche flan is delicious on its own, but it pairs nicely with fresh fruit, like strawberries or mangoes. A drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce can also add a fun twist.
What common mistakes should I avoid when making leche flan?
One common mistake is overcooking the caramel, which can turn bitter. Also, overmixing the custard can lead to a bumpy texture, so just mix until smooth.
