Description
This Basque Burnt Cheesecake is a rich, creamy, and deeply caramelized dessert known for its signature burnt top and custardy interior. Originating from Spain’s Basque region, this cheesecake requires no crust and features a beautifully cracked surface with a luscious, soft center. It’s easy to prepare and bakes to perfection in just under an hour, making it a perfect indulgent treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Cheesecake Batter
- 2 lbs (900g) cream cheese, at room temperature
- 1 1/4 cups (250g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 6 large eggs
- 1 1/4 cups (300ml) heavy cream
- 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour, sifted
Optional
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line the bottom and sides of a 10-inch (25cm) springform pan with parchment paper, ensuring it extends about 2 inches above the pan edges to contain the batter as it rises and prevent spillage.
- Prepare the cream cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy, roughly 2 minutes, to ensure a lump-free base for your batter.
- Add sugar and salt: Incorporate the granulated sugar and salt into the cream cheese mixture. Beat until fully combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl as necessary.
- Mix in vanilla: Add the vanilla extract and blend until the flavor is evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Add eggs individually: Crack in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to achieve a smooth, homogenous mixture without over-beating.
- Add heavy cream: Reduce mixer speed and gradually pour in the heavy cream, continuing to mix until the batter is smooth and slightly thinned.
- Fold in flour: Sift the all-purpose flour over the batter and gently fold it in with a spatula until it is fully incorporated, being careful not to deflate the mixture.
- Prepare for baking: Pour the batter evenly into the lined springform pan. Tap the pan lightly on the countertop to remove any trapped air bubbles for an even texture.
- Bake the cheesecake: Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes. The top should develop a deep golden brown color with slight cracking, while the center remains jiggly and slightly undercooked. This texture is essential for the signature creamy finish.
- Cool in the pan: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 30 minutes to allow it to set gently.
- Remove from pan and cool further: Carefully release the springform pan and peel away the parchment paper. Allow the cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature before refrigeration.
- Chill: Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or ideally overnight to let it firm up fully and develop deeper flavors.
- Serve: Optionally dust the top with powdered sugar before slicing. Serve chilled and enjoy the rich, creamy, and slightly caramelized Basque Burnt Cheesecake.
Notes
- Using room temperature cream cheese ensures a smooth batter without lumps.
- The parchment paper must extend above the pan to prevent batter overflow during baking.
- The cheesecake should remain slightly jiggly in the center when you take it out of the oven; it will firm up as it cools and chills.
- For best flavor and texture, refrigerate overnight before serving.
- Optional dusting of powdered sugar adds a subtle sweetness and elegant presentation.