The Basque Cheesecake is known for its signature burnt top and incredibly creamy interior. With a rich, velvety texture and a deep, caramelized crust, it offers a unique flavor profile that’s both indulgent and surprisingly light. The perfect balance between sweet and slightly savory, this cheesecake will definitely become your go-to dessert for any special occasion or casual gathering.
Whether you’re serving it for a dinner party or enjoying it with family on a cozy afternoon, this Basque Cheesecake is a crowd-pleaser. It’s simple yet sophisticated, and the burnt top adds an intriguing twist to the classic cheesecake. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make with just a few ingredients, making it perfect for anyone from beginners to seasoned bakers.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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900g cream cheese (room temperature)
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1 cup heavy cream
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1 cup whole milk
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3/4 cup sugar
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5 large eggs
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1/4 cup all-purpose flour
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A pinch of salt
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a 9-inch (23 cm) springform pan with parchment paper, ensuring the paper extends about 2 inches above the pan.
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Beat the cream cheese and sugar together in a large bowl until smooth and creamy, about 3 minutes.
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Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Add vanilla extract, and mix well.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Gradually add this to the cream cheese mixture, stirring until smooth.
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Pour in the heavy cream and milk, and continue mixing until everything is incorporated.
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Pour the batter into the prepared springform pan.
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Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the top is deeply golden-brown (almost burnt) and the center is still slightly wobbly.
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Let the cheesecake cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes | Kcal: 380 kcal | Servings: 10
The Origins of Basque Cheesecake
The Basque Cheesecake hails from the Basque Country, a region located in northern Spain. It was created in 1990 by Chef Santiago Rivera at his restaurant, La Viña, in San Sebastián. This cheesecake quickly gained fame in the local area due to its simplicity and delightful texture. The chef’s take on the classic cheesecake, known for its burnt top and absence of crust, became a signature dish at the restaurant. Word spread, and it didn’t take long for this dessert to become a beloved staple in both Spain and beyond. Today, Basque Cheesecake is considered a must-try dessert for anyone visiting the Basque Country, and it has gained popularity globally, making appearances in countless bakeries and restaurants worldwide.
Why is Basque Cheesecake So Special?
What makes Basque Cheesecake stand out from other types of cheesecake is its distinctive preparation and baking method. Traditional cheesecakes usually require a carefully prepared crust, often made from crushed biscuits or graham crackers, which is baked before the filling is added. In contrast, Basque Cheesecake completely skips this step. Instead, the batter is poured directly into a pan lined with parchment paper, which is then baked at a high temperature. The high heat causes the top to become beautifully darkened, resembling a burnt appearance. This unexpected ‘burnt’ exterior is the key characteristic of the Basque Cheesecake.
The burnt top gives the cheesecake a deliciously caramelized flavor, providing a complex contrast to the rich, smooth, and creamy filling. The interior of the cheesecake remains soft, almost like a custard, and melts in your mouth with each bite. The combination of these textures is what makes Basque Cheesecake so irresistible and unique.
The Flavor Profile of Basque Cheesecake
The flavor profile of Basque Cheesecake is both simple and sophisticated. The tangy cream cheese and the richness of heavy cream form the base of the cheesecake, creating a creamy and slightly sweet flavor. The high-heat baking process intensifies this sweetness while giving the top a burnt, almost smoky taste. The absence of a crust allows the flavor of the cheesecake itself to shine through, without being masked by any crumbly or crunchy elements. The result is a balanced flavor that isn’t too overpowering, making it the perfect indulgence without feeling heavy.
In addition, Basque Cheesecake is not overly sweet like some other cheesecakes. Instead, it has a subtle sweetness that allows the richness of the cream cheese to be the star of the show. This makes it an excellent dessert option for those who enjoy a cheesecake with a more refined, less sugary profile. The slight bitterness of the burnt top also adds depth to the overall flavor, giving it a well-rounded taste that is distinct from traditional cheesecakes.
How to Serve Basque Cheesecake
One of the reasons why Basque Cheesecake is so popular is because it’s versatile and can be served in many different ways. After baking and allowing the cheesecake to cool, it should be refrigerated for at least a few hours to achieve the perfect consistency. Many people prefer to serve Basque Cheesecake at room temperature, as it allows the flavors to be more pronounced and the texture to be soft and creamy. However, some individuals enjoy it chilled for a firmer texture.
Basque Cheesecake can be served as is, with its characteristic dark, caramelized top left untouched. Alternatively, some people may choose to dust it with a bit of powdered sugar or top it with fresh berries, such as raspberries or strawberries, to add a burst of color and a touch of sweetness. The simplicity of the dessert makes it incredibly versatile, allowing it to pair beautifully with a variety of accompaniments, like fresh fruit or a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce.
It also works wonderfully as a celebratory dessert for special occasions like birthdays, dinner parties, or holidays. While it can stand alone as a star dessert, pairing it with a nice dessert wine or a rich espresso could elevate the experience even further.
The Appeal of Basque Cheesecake for Modern Foodies
The rise in popularity of Basque Cheesecake can largely be attributed to modern food culture’s growing appreciation for simple yet extraordinary recipes. With an emphasis on authenticity and flavor, this dessert appeals to today’s food lovers who are constantly seeking new experiences and flavor profiles that differ from the norm. The unique burnt top, which was once considered a flaw, has become a signature feature that distinguishes the Basque Cheesecake from other desserts, making it an exciting option for people who love to try new things.
In addition to its unique flavor and preparation method, Basque Cheesecake is incredibly easy to make, which is a major selling point for many people. It requires fewer ingredients than traditional cheesecakes, and the lack of a crust means there is no need for precision in terms of crust preparation. The cheesecake’s simplicity also makes it perfect for home bakers, even for those who are not experienced in making complex desserts. The result is a dessert that is both impressive and straightforward to prepare.
Variations and Customizations of Basque Cheesecake
While the classic Basque Cheesecake is beloved for its simple and traditional preparation, there are numerous ways to put a personal twist on the recipe. Some people add citrus zest, such as lemon or orange, to the batter for a refreshing twist that complements the richness of the cheesecake. Others may incorporate a layer of fruit compote on top or a small drizzle of honey to enhance the dessert’s sweetness.
For those who want to experiment with different flavors, adding a bit of coffee, chocolate, or even a dash of liquor like rum or vanilla extract can add complexity to the flavor profile. As long as the basic structure of the cheesecake remains intact—cream cheese, heavy cream, eggs, and flour—there is plenty of room for creativity. This makes Basque Cheesecake an incredibly adaptable dessert that can cater to a wide variety of tastes.
Conclusion
Basque Cheesecake is a truly special dessert that has earned its place as a fan favorite around the world. Its unique combination of a burnt top and creamy interior creates a taste and texture experience that is unlike any other cheesecake. With its rich, velvety filling and deeply caramelized top, this dessert offers a balance of sweet and savory flavors that will satisfy any sweet tooth. Whether you enjoy it as a simple, no-fuss dessert or get creative by adding toppings and twists, Basque Cheesecake is sure to impress anyone who tries it.
As its popularity continues to rise, there’s no better time to try making this exquisite dessert at home. Its easy preparation and sophisticated flavor make it a great choice for both beginner bakers and seasoned pros alike. So, if you haven’t already experienced the magic of Basque Cheesecake, now is the perfect time to indulge in this creamy, caramelized delight.