In a skillet, add the sugar and stir over medium heat until it melts and turns a light brown caramel color.

Remove from heat before it hardens and pour the caramel into a buttered cake pan, spreading it evenly over the bottom.

To prepare the cake layer, combine the cake mix, 3 eggs, oil, and water. Mix well and pour into the pan over the caramel.

For the flan, blend the evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, 5 eggs, cream cheese, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Carefully pour the flan mixture over the cake batter, making sure not to mix the layers together.

Slowly add the flan mixture with a ladle so it gently seeps through the cake batter. Some of the milk mixture may remain on top, but it will settle as it bakes.

Bake in a water bath (bain-marie) for 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the cake comes out clean.