Chocoflan Cake Recipe – The Magical Impossible Cake Everyone Loves

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chocoflan, often called the “impossible cake,” is one of those desserts that never fails to impress. It magically bakes into two distinct layers: a rich, moist chocolate cake on the bottom and a smooth, creamy flan on top, all finished with a glossy caramel topping. Despite its dramatic appearance, this dessert is surprisingly simple to make and does not require advanced baking skills.

What makes this recipe truly special is the contrast of textures and flavors. The deep chocolate cake balances beautifully with the light, custardy flan, while the caramel adds just the right amount of sweetness. I tested this recipe several times to ensure consistent layering and a flan that sets perfectly every time. It is an ideal dessert for celebrations, holidays, or anytime you want a show-stopping treat that tastes as good as it looks.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Granulated sugar
Granulated sugar is used to create the caramel base, giving the cake its glossy, slightly bitter-sweet topping.

Eggs
Eggs are essential for the flan layer, providing structure and a silky smooth texture.

Sweetened condensed milk
Sweetened condensed milk adds richness and sweetness to the flan.

Evaporated milk
Evaporated milk balances the condensed milk and helps create a smooth custard.

Cream cheese
Cream cheese adds body and extra creaminess to the flan layer.

Vanilla extract
Vanilla enhances the flavor of the flan and adds warmth.

All-purpose flour
All-purpose flour provides structure to the chocolate cake layer.

Cocoa powder
Cocoa powder gives the cake its deep chocolate flavor.

Baking powder
Baking powder helps the cake rise properly.

Butter
Butter adds richness and moisture to the cake.

Granulated sugar (for cake)
Sugar sweetens the chocolate cake and balances the cocoa.

Milk
Milk keeps the cake batter smooth and tender.

Directions

Preheat the oven to 180°C. Begin by preparing the caramel. Melt the granulated sugar in a saucepan over medium heat until it turns a deep amber color. Carefully pour the caramel into the bottom of a bundt pan, swirling to coat evenly. Set aside to cool and harden.

To prepare the chocolate cake batter, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and baking powder. In a separate bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light, then add the milk and mix until smooth. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Pour the cake batter gently over the hardened caramel.

For the flan layer, blend the eggs, condensed milk, evaporated milk, cream cheese, and vanilla extract until completely smooth. Slowly pour the flan mixture over the cake batter. Do not stir.

Place the bundt pan in a larger roasting pan and add hot water to create a water bath, reaching halfway up the sides of the pan. Bake for 60 to 70 minutes, or until the flan is set and a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean.

Remove from the oven and allow the cake to cool completely. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. To serve, run a knife around the edges and invert onto a serving plate.

Equipment needed

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.

 3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 10 to 12 people. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, with a baking time of 70 minutes. Including cooling and chilling, total time required is about 6 hours.

Storage/reheating

Store Chocoflan covered in the refrigerator for up to four days. This dessert is best served chilled and does not require reheating.

Variations and Customizations

Chocoflan can be customized in subtle ways without losing its signature charm. For a deeper chocolate flavor, espresso powder can be added to the cake batter. A splash of orange zest in the flan adds a bright, aromatic note.

You can also experiment with different cake bases, such as a vanilla or cinnamon-spiced cake, while keeping the flan layer the same. For extra indulgence, drizzle additional caramel sauce over each slice before serving.

If you prefer a lighter flan texture, reduce the cream cheese slightly. These adjustments allow flexibility while preserving the iconic layered result.

FAQs

Why is it called impossible cake?

Because the layers magically switch places while baking.

Do I need a water bath?

Yes, it ensures the flan cooks gently and evenly.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, it is best made a day in advance.

What pan works best?

A bundt pan ensures even cooking and easy release.

Can I use store-bought caramel?

Homemade caramel works best, but store-bought can be used.

How do I know the flan is set?

It should jiggle slightly in the center but not look liquid.

Can I freeze chocoflan?

Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes.

Why did my cake stick?

Ensure the caramel fully coats the pan before adding batter.

Can I use a boxed cake mix?

Yes, chocolate cake mix can be substituted if needed.

Should this be served warm or cold?

It is best served chilled.

Conclusion

Chocoflan is a truly unforgettable dessert that combines rich chocolate cake, silky flan, and golden caramel into one stunning creation. With its impressive presentation and surprisingly simple preparation, it is the perfect choice for celebrations or anytime you want a dessert that feels special. This recipe proves that a little kitchen magic can go a long way.

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