Preheat oven to 325°F. Prepare a water bath by filling a large baking dish with about 1 inch of hot water and placing it in the oven.
Make caramel: In a frying pan or saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the sugar until fully dissolved and golden. Carefully divide the hot caramel between 6 ramekins. Set aside to cool and harden.
Blend custard: In a blender or large bowl, mix eggs, evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, heavy cream, cream cheese, and vanilla until completely smooth.
Fill ramekins: Pour the custard evenly into the prepared ramekins. Cover each ramekin tightly with foil.
Bake in water bath: Carefully place the ramekins into the water bath. The water should come halfway up the sides. Bake for 1 hour, or until the flan is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
Cool: Remove ramekins from the water bath and discard the foil. Let cool at room temperature, then chill for at least 1 hour.
Serve: To unmold, run a thin knife around the edge of each flan. Invert onto a rimmed plate and let the caramel sauce drizzle over the top. Garnish with berries or whipped topping if desired.
Notes
🥡 STORAGE: Store the flan covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Keep flan in the ramekins or transfer to an airtight container.♨️ REHEATING: Flan is best served cold or at room temperature.If desired, microwave individual servings for 10–15 seconds.Avoid overheating to maintain a creamy texture.❄️ FREEZING: Freeze fully cooled flan (still in ramekins) for up to 1 month. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil.Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.💡 TIPS FOR BEST RESULTS: Melt sugar over low heat to prevent burning the caramel.Blend the custard until completely smooth.Use a water bath for even baking and a silky finish.Chill thoroughly for easier unmolding and best texture.Dip ramekin bottoms in warm water before inverting.🍳 ALTERNATE COOKING METHODS:Stovetop steamer – Steam ramekins with lids in a large covered pot for 50–60 minutes.Instant Pot – Cook on the “Pressure Cook” mode for 9–10 minutes, then perform a natural release.Air fryer – Not recommended due to the need for gentle, even heat.♻️ LEFTOVERS: Enjoy leftover flan as a snack or dessert straight from the fridge.Use it in parfaits with whipped cream and fruit.Serve with coffee or espresso for a rich treat.