Creamy Coffee Flan with a Sweet Sugar Crust

1.Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2.In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine 1/2 cup of sugar with 1/4 cup of water. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture turns a golden caramel color. Quickly pour the caramel into a round baking dish, tilting to coat the bottom evenly. Set aside to cool and harden.

3.In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the remaining 1/2 cup of sugar and continue to mix until well combined.

4.Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, add the milk and brewed coffee, mixing until smooth and creamy.

5.Sift the flour into the mixture and gently fold it in until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

6.Pour the cream cheese mixture over the hardened caramel in the baking dish.

7.Place the baking dish in a larger baking pan and fill the outer pan with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the flan dish, creating a water bath.

8.Bake in the preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes, or until the flan is set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

9.Remove the flan from the water bath and let it cool to room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.

10.To serve, run a knife around the edges of the flan to loosen it, then invert onto a serving plate. The caramel will flow over the top, creating a delicious sauce.