Cream cheese flan with a rich, dense texture and golden caramel is an indulgent variation. This family-favorite dessert is a velvety, sweet treat perfect for celebrations.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Set a 9-inch round cake pan or deep baking dish nearby.
In a heavy saucepan over medium heat, melt the granulated sugar, stirring constantly, until it dissolves and turns a deep golden caramel color—about 6–8 minutes. Immediately pour the hot caramel into the bottom of your baking dish, swirling to coat the base evenly. Set aside to cool and harden.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese and eggs. Beat with a hand mixer on medium speed for 2 minutes until smooth and lump-free.
Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, whole milk, and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture, blending until fully incorporated and silky.
Pour the batter gently over the cooled caramel layer. Place the filled baking dish inside a larger roasting pan and add hot water to the outer pan until it reaches about halfway up the sides of the flan pan (bain-marie). Bake for 60–70 minutes, or until the center is just set and a knife inserted comes out mostly clean.
Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to chill and firm up.
To serve, loosen the flan edges with a thin spatula or knife, invert onto a rimmed plate, and let the caramel syrup flow over the top. Slice and enjoy chilled.