Step 1: Prepare the Caramel
- Make the Caramel: In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of sugar with 1/4 cup of water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Once boiling, stop stirring and cook until the syrup turns a deep amber color, about 5-7 minutes.
- Coat the Pan: Quickly pour the hot caramel into the bottom of the 9-inch cake pan, tilting to coat the bottom evenly. Set aside to cool and harden.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Batter
- Mix Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 1/2 cup sugar until smooth. Add 2 eggs and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until just combined.
- Prepare the Layer: Pour the cheesecake mixture over the hardened caramel in the cake pan, spreading evenly. Set aside.
Step 3: Make the Flan Mixture
- Blend Flan Ingredients: In a blender, combine the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, 3 eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Blend until smooth.
- Layer Over Cheesecake: Carefully pour the flan mixture over the cheesecake layer in the pan, using the back of a spoon to gently distribute the mixture if necessary.
Step 4: Bake in a Water Bath
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Water Bath: Place the cake pan in a large roasting pan. Pour hot water into the roasting pan until it comes halfway up the sides of the cake pan.
- Bake: Bake for about 1 hour or until set. The center should jiggle slightly when shaken, indicating it’s done.
Step 5: Cool and Refrigerate
- Cool: Remove the cake pan from the water bath and let cool to room temperature.
- Refrigerate: Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, which makes the flan easier to invert.
Step 6: Serve
- Invert the Cake: Run a knife around the edges of the pan. Place a large plate over the pan and quickly invert the cake onto the plate.
- Finish and Serve: The caramel will flow over the flan and cheesecake. Slice and serve chilled.
Conclusion
Flan cheesecake is a sumptuous dessert that marries the richness of cheesecake with the delicate texture of flan, all enveloped in a decadent caramel sauce. It’s perfect for impressing guests or indulging in a special after-dinner treat. Enjoy the luxurious combination of flavors and textures in this unique dessert.