If you’re craving a dessert that perfectly balances rich creaminess with a delightfully caramelized top, look no further than the Basque Cheesecake Recipe. This unique cheesecake, famous for its intentionally burnt surface and luscious, fudgy interior, has quickly become a favorite for both casual bakers and dessert enthusiasts. It’s straightforward to make yet so impressive in taste and presentation that it feels like a special occasion treat every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this Basque Cheesecake Recipe is wonderfully simple because it relies on a handful of ingredients that each play a critical role in creating its luxurious texture and flavor. From the rich cream cheese to the subtly flavored vanilla extract, every component is essential.
- Cream cheese (2 pounds/900g): The star ingredient, softened to ensure a smooth and creamy batter.
- Granulated sugar (1½ cups/300g): Sweetens the cheesecake while helping to create a tender crumb.
- Large eggs (6, room temperature): They add structure and richness to the cheesecake.
- Heavy cream (2 cups/480ml): Provides luscious creaminess and that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds a subtle depth of flavor that complements the tang of the cream cheese.
- All-purpose flour (¼ cup/30g): Lightly stabilizes the batter for the perfect consistency.
- Kosher salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances the overall flavor by balancing the sweetness.
How to Make Basque Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan
Begin by setting your oven to a toasty 400°F (205°C). This high heat is key for achieving that trademark deeply golden, almost burnt top. Prepare your 9-inch springform pan by lining it generously with parchment paper, making sure the paper extends at least 2 inches beyond the edges. This ensures easy removal and prevents sticking.
Step 2: Create the Creamy Base
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese together with granulated sugar until silky smooth, about 2 to 3 minutes. This step ensures your cheesecake base will be velvety without lumps, setting a perfect foundation for what’s to come.
Step 3: Incorporate the Eggs
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. This slow incorporation helps the batter stay smooth and prevents curdling, which is essential to maintain that iconic creamy texture of the Basque cheesecake.
Step 4: Mix in Cream and Vanilla
Pour in the heavy cream and vanilla extract and continue mixing until everything is fully combined. These ingredients bring richness and a fragrant warmth, rounding out the flavor to rich perfection.
Step 5: Add Dry Ingredients
Sift in the flour and sprinkle the kosher salt over the batter. Gently mix on low speed just until these are incorporated to avoid overworking the batter, which could make the texture tough rather than delicate.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Pour your luscious batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Pop the pan into your preheated oven and let it bake for 50 to 60 minutes. Watch for that signature deeply golden brown top—the caramelization gives the Basque Cheesecake Recipe its irresistible burnt flavor. The center should remain slightly jiggly when done, promising a soft, creamy inside.
Step 7: Cool and Chill
Once baked, allow the cheesecake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. After it’s cool, refrigerate for at least 4 hours to let it set properly. When ready to serve, remove from the pan and peel off the parchment paper gently.
How to Serve Basque Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
This cheesecake is simply divine on its own because of its intense flavors and creamy texture. However, you can add a fresh touch by topping it with a dollop of lightly whipped cream, fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a hint of sweetness and an elegant look.
Side Dishes
To complement the rich Basque Cheesecake Recipe, consider serving it alongside a fresh fruit compote or a tangy berry sauce. A cup of robust coffee or a dessert wine like a late harvest Riesling can also elevate the experience, balancing the cheesecake’s richness with acidity and brightness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, slice the cheesecake into rustic wedges and arrange them on a wooden board or a simple white platter. Adding some edible flowers or mint leaves can create a beautiful contrast with the golden color. If you’re feeling adventurous, try layering slices with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for added texture and flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Basque Cheesecake Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep it covered to maintain its moisture and prevent it from absorbing other odors from the fridge.
Freezing
You can freeze this cheesecake for longer storage by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or placing it in an airtight freezer container. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture retention.
Reheating
This cheesecake is best served chilled or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t necessary. However, if you prefer it slightly warmed, let slices sit at room temperature for about 20 to 30 minutes before serving. This helps enhance the creamy texture without compromising its characteristic burnt flavor.
FAQs
Why is the Basque Cheesecake intentionally burnt on top?
The burnt top creates a caramelized crust that adds a distinctive smoky-sweet flavor, offering a wonderful contrast to the rich, creamy interior. It’s this unique characteristic that sets the Basque Cheesecake Recipe apart from traditional cheesecakes.
Can I use a regular springform pan instead of a 9-inch one?
While a 9-inch springform pan is ideal for balancing depth and baking time, you can use a similar-sized pan. Just be mindful that smaller or larger pans will affect baking time and the thickness of the cheesecake.
Is it necessary to use room temperature eggs?
Yes, using room temperature eggs helps them blend smoothly into the cream cheese batter, preventing lumps and ensuring a better texture in your Basque Cheesecake Recipe.
Can I substitute cream cheese with another cheese?
Cream cheese is essential for the creamy, tangy flavor characteristic of this cheesecake. While some variations exist, substituting it may alter the taste and texture significantly, so it’s best to stick with cream cheese.
What’s the best way to serve Basque Cheesecake?
Serving the Basque Cheesecake Recipe at room temperature allows the creamy texture to shine through and the flavors to fully develop. Adding a simple garnish like fresh berries or whipped cream can enhance its deliciousness even more.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something so comforting and impressive about making this Basque Cheesecake Recipe at home. Its unique burnt exterior combined with an irresistibly creamy center makes it stand out from your usual cheesecake, and the straightforward ingredients make it approachable for any home baker. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and enjoy every luscious bite with your loved ones!
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Basque Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Spanish
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Basque Cheesecake is a decadent Spanish dessert known for its deeply caramelized, burnt top and creamy, custard-like interior. Made with cream cheese, eggs, heavy cream, and a touch of vanilla, it offers a rich and smooth texture without the need for a crust. Perfect for those seeking a unique and indulgent cheesecake experience.
Ingredients
Cheesecake Ingredients
- 2 pounds (900g) cream cheese, softened
- 1½ cups (300g) granulated sugar
- 6 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 cups (480ml) heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup (30g) all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (205°C) and prepare a 9-inch springform pan by lining it with parchment paper, making sure the paper extends at least 2 inches above the rim to contain the batter and facilitate easy removal.
- Mix cream cheese and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and free of lumps.
- Add eggs: Incorporate the eggs one at a time into the cream cheese mixture, ensuring each egg is fully blended before adding the next to maintain a smooth batter.
- Add cream and vanilla: Pour in the heavy cream and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is fully combined and the batter is uniform.
- Combine flour and salt: Sift the all-purpose flour into the batter and add the kosher salt. Mix on low speed just until the flour is incorporated to avoid overmixing, which could affect texture.
- Pour and smooth batter: Transfer the batter into the prepared springform pan and smooth the top with a spatula to ensure an even bake.
- Bake the cheesecake: Place in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes until the top is deeply golden brown and has a characteristic burnt appearance while the center remains slightly jiggly to achieve the creamy interior.
- Cool and chill: Allow the cheesecake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Then refrigerate it for at least 4 hours to set properly and develop flavor.
- Serve: Remove the cheesecake from the pan and peel off the parchment paper carefully. Slice and serve, ideally at room temperature to fully enjoy the creamy texture and caramelized flavors.
Notes
- The burnt top is intentional, offering a rich, caramelized flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior.
- For the best taste and texture, serve this cheesecake at room temperature rather than straight from the fridge.
- Using room temperature eggs helps create a smoother batter and better texture.
- Line the pan carefully with parchment to ensure easy removal and prevent sticking.
