Welcome to a dessert revolution where simplicity meets bold flavor! Today, we’re making Basque Burnt Cheesecake—a wonderfully caramelized, creamy treat with a perfectly scorched top that creates a uniquely bittersweet, melt-in-your-mouth experience. Trust me, you’re going to love this recipe!

Why You’ll Love Basque Burnt Cheesecake

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments of indulgence and wonder. Whether you’re impressing guests at a dinner party, treating yourself to an extraordinary dessert, or simply celebrating the art of baking, this cheesecake delivers on every level. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

• Versatile: Enjoy it as a decadent dessert on its own or paired with fresh berries and a dollop of whipped cream.
• Budget-Friendly: Made with simple ingredients that combine to create a gourmet dessert experience.
• Quick and Easy: With a straightforward process, you’ll have an impressive cheesecake that’s surprisingly simple to make.
• Customizable: Adjust the level of “burnt” perfection to suit your taste.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Its unique texture and irresistible flavor make it a hit at any gathering.

Ingredients in Basque Burnt Cheesecake

Here’s the secret behind this unforgettable cheesecake—it’s crafted with just a few quality ingredients that come together to create a creamy, caramelized masterpiece:

Cream Cheese

The heart of the cheesecake, offering a rich and velvety texture.

Heavy Cream

Adds a luxurious creaminess and helps achieve that perfect, smooth consistency.

Eggs

Bind the ingredients together and contribute to the cheesecake’s custardy structure.

Sugar

Sweetens the mixture and aids in creating that signature burnt, caramelized top.

All-Purpose Flour

Provides a subtle structure to the cheesecake without compromising its creamy interior.

Salt

Enhances all the flavors, balancing the sweetness and creaminess.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this extraordinary Basque Burnt Cheesecake:

Preheat Your Equipment

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (205°C). This high temperature is key to achieving that iconic burnt exterior.

Combine the Creamy Mixture

In a large bowl, blend the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, gently incorporate the heavy cream and sift in the flour along with a pinch of salt. Mix until you have a silky, homogeneous batter.

Prepare Your Baking Pan

Line a springform pan with parchment paper, ensuring the paper extends above the rim. This allows the cheesecake to rise and creates the dramatic, burnt edges we love.

Assemble the Batter

Pour the cheesecake batter into the prepared pan. Tap the pan lightly on the counter to remove any air bubbles and ensure an even surface.

Bake to Perfection

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 50-60 minutes. The top should be deeply caramelized—almost burnt—while the center remains luscious and creamy. The contrast in textures is what makes this cheesecake so unique!

Cool and Set

Remove the cheesecake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan. As it cools, the cheesecake will firm up slightly, but the center should still be wonderfully creamy.

Serve and Enjoy

Once cooled, gently remove the cheesecake from the pan and slice. Enjoy each bite of this delectably unconventional dessert that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious.

Nutrition Facts

(Note:

• Servings: 10
• Calories per serving: 450
  )

Preparation Time

(Note:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  )

How to Serve Basque Burnt Cheesecake

This cheesecake is best served at room temperature or slightly chilled. Pair it with fresh seasonal fruit, a drizzle of berry coulis, or a simple dusting of powdered sugar for an extra touch of elegance. Its rich flavor and intriguing texture make it a perfect centerpiece for any dessert table.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra pointers to help you achieve cheesecake perfection every time:

• Be sure to use room-temperature ingredients to ensure a smooth, well-incorporated batter.
• Do not worry if the cheesecake seems slightly loose in the center after baking—the residual heat will set it as it cools.
• Experiment with the baking time to find your perfect level of “burnt” deliciousness.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, and enjoy the flavors even more the next day.

FAQ’s

1. Do I need to line the pan with parchment paper?
   Yes, lining the pan with parchment paper is essential to achieve the dramatic burnt edges and to ensure easy removal.
2. Can I use a water bath for this cheesecake?
   No, the magic of Basque Burnt Cheesecake lies in its high-temperature baking, which creates a unique, caramelized top without a water bath.
3. Will the cheesecake be too firm after cooling?
   It should remain wonderfully creamy in the center while being slightly firmer around the edges. That contrast is what makes it special!
4. Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
   Absolutely! This cheesecake can be made a day in advance. In fact, letting it sit in the refrigerator overnight can enhance its flavor.
5. What if I prefer a less burnt top?
   Feel free to adjust the baking time slightly, but keep in mind that the signature burnt top is key to the cheesecake’s flavor profile.
6. Can I freeze Basque Burnt Cheesecake?
   Yes, you can freeze it. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
7. What kind of cream cheese is best?
   Use full-fat cream cheese for the richest flavor and creamiest texture.
8. Can I add any flavorings to the batter?
   For a twist, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or a hint of lemon zest, but traditional is best for the authentic Basque experience.
9. How do I know when it’s done?
   The top should be deeply caramelized, almost burnt, while the center remains slightly jiggly. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out mostly clean.
10. Is this recipe suitable for a crowd?
    Yes, its unique appearance and rich flavor make it a show-stopping dessert for any gathering!

CONCLUSION

Basque Burnt Cheesecake is a dessert that challenges traditional norms while delighting the senses. With its deep, caramelized top and creamy center, it offers a bold yet comforting experience that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re indulging on your own or sharing with loved ones, every bite is a celebration of culinary creativity. Enjoy every moment and happy baking!

Basque Burnt Cheesecake

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A crustless cheesecake with a deeply caramelized top and a lusciously creamy interior. The slight tang from cream cheese and the signature burnt exterior create an irresistible dessert that’s both dramatic in appearance and divine in flavor.

 

• Author: Grace Sullivan
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Total Time: 6 hours (includes chilling time)
• Yield: 1 cheesecake (approx. 10 servings)
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Spanish
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

– 2 lbs cream cheese, softened

– 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar

– 6 large eggs, at room temperature

– 2 cups heavy cream, at room temperature

– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

– 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)

– Pinch of salt

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper, ensuring the paper extends well above the rim.

2. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar until completely smooth.

3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition.

4. Pour in the heavy cream and vanilla extract (if using), then add a pinch of salt.

5. Sift in the flour and mix until just combined; do not overmix.

6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan.

7. Bake for 50-60 minutes. The top should be deeply golden and blistered, while the center remains slightly jiggly.

8. Remove from the oven and allow the cheesecake to cool completely in the pan.

9. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight) before serving.

 

Notes

– The burnt top is intentional and adds a caramelized flavor contrast to the creamy interior.

– No crust is used, ensuring an ultra-creamy texture throughout.

– Best served chilled; store any leftovers in the refrigerator.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: ~400 kcal
• Sugar: ~35 g
• Sodium: ~250 mg
• Fat: ~28 g
• Saturated Fat: ~16 g
• Unsaturated Fat: ~12 g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: ~22 g
• Fiber: ~0 g
• Protein: ~7 g
• Cholesterol: ~150 mg