Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Basque Burnt Cheesecake is an iconic dessert with a deep, caramelized top and a rich, velvety interior. This cheesecake stands out from traditional cheesecakes due to its no-crust design and the tantalizing contrast between its burnt exterior and creamy center. With simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s a dessert that delivers both visually and in flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this easy yet stunning dessert is sure to impress.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Cream Cheese (500g, full-fat, at room temperature)
- Heavy Cream (200ml)
- Granulated Sugar (150g)
- Eggs (4 large)
- All-Purpose Flour (20g, optional)
- Vanilla Extract (1 tsp)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to a high temperature and grease a springform pan generously.
- In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, heavy cream, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and bake at a high temperature to achieve the burnt top while maintaining a creamy center.
- Monitor the cheesecake closely to ensure the top caramelizes without overbaking the center.
- Allow the cheesecake to cool completely before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 45 minutes
- Cooling time: 2 hours
Variations
- Gooey Cheesecake: For a more indulgent, creamy experience, slightly underbake the cheesecake.
- Citrus Twist: Add a hint of lemon or orange zest for a refreshing variation.
- Healthier Version: Try using low-fat cream cheese or reducing sugar, though the texture may change.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover Basque Burnt Cheesecake in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor. It can also be frozen for up to a month; just thaw in the fridge overnight.
FAQs
What is Basque Burnt Cheesecake?
It’s a no-crust cheesecake with a caramelized, burnt top and a creamy interior, originating from San Sebastian, Spain.
How do I achieve the perfect cracked top?
Bake at a high temperature and monitor closely to ensure the top becomes caramelized while keeping the center soft and creamy.
Can I make a healthier version?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese and reduce the sugar, but this may alter the texture and flavor slightly.
What makes it different from traditional cheesecake?
It lacks a crust and is baked at a high temperature to create the signature burnt top.
How long does it take to bake?
It takes about 45 minutes, but the cheesecake should cool for at least 2 hours after baking.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, it can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
Can I freeze Basque Burnt Cheesecake?
Yes, you can freeze it for up to a month. Thaw it in the fridge before serving.
Should I use room-temperature ingredients?
Yes, using room-temperature cream cheese and eggs helps achieve the smoothest consistency.
Can I adjust the sweetness?
Yes, adjust the sugar amount according to your sweetness preference.
What can I serve with Basque Burnt Cheesecake?
Fresh berries, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or a side of espresso pair wonderfully.
Conclusion
Basque Burnt Cheesecake is a deliciously unique dessert with a bold caramelized top and a creamy, indulgent center. Simple to make and deeply satisfying, it’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy creating this spectacular dessert and share it with friends and family for a memorable treat!
Basque Burnt Cheesecake Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes (including cooling time)
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Basque Burnt Cheesecake is a stunning dessert featuring a deep caramelized top and a rich, creamy interior. Unlike traditional cheesecakes, it’s crustless and has a beautifully charred exterior that contrasts with the velvety smooth center. Simple ingredients, an easy method, and impressive results make this cheesecake a favorite for both beginners and experienced bakers. It’s the perfect treat for any special occasion or simply a sweet indulgence.
Ingredients
- 500g cream cheese (full-fat, at room temperature)
- 200ml heavy cream
- 150g granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 20g all-purpose flour (optional)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F) and generously grease a 9-inch springform pan.
- In a large bowl, combine the cream cheese, heavy cream, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and fully combined.
- If desired, sift in the all-purpose flour and mix well to ensure the batter is smooth and lump-free.
- Pour the cheesecake mixture into the prepared pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes or until the top is deeply golden brown and slightly cracked, but the center remains soft and wobbly.
- Let the cheesecake cool completely in the pan at room temperature for 2 hours before removing it from the springform pan.
- Serve at room temperature or chilled for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- The burnt top is a signature feature of Basque Burnt Cheesecake. Ensure the oven temperature is high enough to create the caramelized surface while keeping the interior creamy.
- To make the cheesecake even creamier, slightly underbake it for a gooier consistency.
- This cheesecake can be made a day ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let it come to room temperature before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Spanish