This vanilla cake flan recipe has a rich, smooth taste that balances sweetness and creaminess beautifully. The caramel adds a deep sugar flavor that melts into the soft vanilla cake, while the flan layer stays silky and tender.The ingredients work naturally together, using vanilla cake mix, eggs, milk, and corn oil for moisture, paired with condensed milk and evaporated milk for a creamy texture.
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar and water. Let it cook without stirring until the sugar melts and turns golden brown. Carefully pour the hot caramel into the bottom of your cake pan, tilting to coat evenly. Set aside.
Mix the cake batter
In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, milk (or water), eggs, and corn oil. Beat until smooth. Gently pour the batter over the caramel layer.
Make the flan mixture
In a blender or bowl, mix condensed milk, evaporated milk, eggs, and vanilla until well blended and smooth.
Add the flan layer
Slowly pour the flan mixture over the cake batter. Do not stir. The layers will separate naturally during baking.
Prepare the water bath
Place the cake pan inside a larger baking pan. Pour hot water into the outer pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the cake pan.
Bake
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean.
Cool and set
Remove from the oven and water bath. Let the cake cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
Unmold and serve
Run a knife around the edges, place a serving plate on top, and carefully flip the cake over. Let the caramel drizzle over the top before slicing.