Air Fryer Cheese Flan (Flan de Queso)

Air fryer flan de queso is richer and denser than classic flan — mascarpone makes it luxuriously creamy, almost like a cheesecake-custard hybrid, all under a glossy caramel top. It's a Latin-American favorite made simple.
No oven, no water bath: the air fryer sets it perfectly. Chill, unmold, and let the caramel cascade over this silky, cheesy custard.
Ingredients
Instructions
Caramelize
Coat the flan molds with liquid caramel and set aside.
Blend
Blend the eggs, milk, mascarpone, sugar and vanilla until completely smooth.
Air fry
Fill the molds, place in the basket, and air fry at 320°F for about 15–18 minutes, until just set with a slight jiggle.
Chill
Cool, then refrigerate several hours before unmolding.
- Blend until silky so there are no lumps of cheese.
- Pull it while it still jiggles for a creamy set.
- Chill overnight for the cleanest unmold.
Frequently asked
What's the difference between flan and cheese flan?
Cheese flan (flan de queso) adds cream cheese or mascarpone for a richer, denser, cheesecake-like custard.
How long does cheese flan take in the air fryer?
About 15–18 minutes at 320°F, until just set, then chill before unmolding.
Can I make one big flan instead of individual ones?
Yes — use a single pan that fits your basket and add 5–10 minutes, checking for a slight wobble.

