The rich, creamy texture of flan de queso is a beloved dessert throughout Puerto Rico, a testament to the island's vibrant culinary heritage. This isn't your average flan; the addition of cheese creates a unique depth of flavor and a luxuriously smooth mouthfeel that sets it apart. This guide will walk you through a traditional Puerto Rican flan de queso recipe, ensuring your creation rivals the best flanes on the island. We'll also delve into frequently asked questions to perfect your flan experience.
Understanding the Ingredients: Key to Puerto Rican Flan de Queso Success
Before diving into the recipe, let's understand the crucial ingredients that contribute to the authentic Puerto Rican flan de queso taste and texture. The quality of your ingredients directly impacts the final result.
- Fresh Eggs: Use the freshest eggs possible for the best texture and richness. Room temperature eggs emulsify better.
- Creamy Cheese: A high-quality cream cheese, such as Philadelphia, is essential for that smooth, creamy texture. Avoid using low-fat options as they may result in a grainy flan.
- Evaporated Milk: This adds richness and creaminess, complementing the cheese beautifully. Don't substitute with other types of milk.
- Condensed Milk: This provides the sweetness and further contributes to the flan's luscious texture.
- Vanilla Extract: A high-quality vanilla extract adds depth and enhances the overall flavor profile. Avoid imitation vanilla.
The Authentic Puerto Rican Flan de Queso Recipe
This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.
Ingredients:
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk
- 8 large eggs
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Caramel Sauce:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup water
Instructions:
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Prepare the Caramel: In a medium saucepan, combine sugar and water. Cook over medium heat, swirling the pan occasionally, until the sugar melts and turns a deep amber color. Carefully pour the caramel into a 9-inch flan dish or ramekins, tilting to coat the bottom and sides evenly. Set aside to cool.
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Combine the Flan Ingredients: In a blender, combine the condensed milk, evaporated milk, eggs, cream cheese, and vanilla extract. Blend until completely smooth and creamy. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to ensure a perfectly smooth texture.
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Bake the Flan: Carefully pour the flan mixture over the caramel in the prepared flan dish. Place the dish in a larger baking pan. Pour enough hot water into the larger pan to come halfway up the sides of the flan dish (bain-marie).
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Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 50-60 minutes, or until the flan is set around the edges but still slightly jiggly in the center.
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Cool and Chill: Remove the flan from the oven and let it cool completely in the water bath. Once cooled, cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the flan to fully set.
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Invert and Serve: To serve, run a thin knife around the edges of the flan to loosen it. Invert the flan onto a serving plate. The caramel will flow down the sides, creating a delicious coating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some common questions about making flan de queso:
What kind of cream cheese should I use for flan de queso?
Use a full-fat, high-quality cream cheese like Philadelphia. Lower-fat versions can result in a less creamy and potentially grainy texture.
How do I prevent cracks in my flan de queso?
Cracks can occur due to overbaking or rapid temperature changes. Ensure you bake the flan in a water bath (bain-marie) to maintain a consistent temperature. Also, let it cool gradually in the water bath before refrigerating.
Can I use a different type of milk in flan de queso?
It's best to stick to the recipe's specified evaporated and condensed milk. Other types of milk may alter the texture and flavor of the final product.
How long can I store flan de queso in the refrigerator?
A properly stored flan de queso can last in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Can I make flan de queso in individual ramekins?
Absolutely! This recipe is easily adaptable for individual ramekins. Just adjust baking time accordingly – smaller ramekins will require less baking time.
Elevate Your Puerto Rican Dessert Game
Making flan de queso might seem daunting, but following this recipe and understanding the nuances of the ingredients will lead you to a truly authentic and delicious Puerto Rican dessert. Remember to savor each bite, appreciating the rich history and tradition behind this creamy, dreamy delight. Enjoy!
