If you are ready to fall in love with a cheesecake that is silky, creamy, and beautifully caramelized on the outside, this Basque Cheesecake Recipe is going to be your new obsession. This crustless marvel originates from Spain’s Basque Country and stands out because of its burnt top and custardy interior, delivering a rich, indulgent experience with every forkful. It’s surprisingly straightforward to make yet stunningly impressive, perfect for sharing with friends or indulging in a self-care moment.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Basque Cheesecake Recipe plays a vital role in creating that perfect creamy texture and slightly caramelized flavor. The list is simple but carefully chosen to achieve an impressive result without fuss.
- Cream cheese (750 g / 1.5 lb, room temperature): The star of the show, giving the cheesecake its signature creaminess; Philadelphia is a reliable choice.
- Caster sugar (1 cup): Provides the perfect sweetness and helps with the caramelization on top; superfine sugar works wonders but regular white sugar is perfectly fine.
- Whipping cream (1 1/4 cups, room temperature): Adds richness and smoothness, key for that luscious mouthfeel we all crave.
- Flour (1/4 cup, plain/all-purpose): Just enough to support the structure without weighing down the cheesecake’s softness.
- Vanilla bean extract (1 tsp): Enhances the flavor beautifully with subtle but essential aromatic notes.
- Eggs (3/4 cups + 1 tbsp, about 4-5 large at room temperature): Bind everything together and provide that custardy texture that’s the hallmark of this Basque cheesecake.
How to Make Basque Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to a robust 400°F (200°C) to achieve that iconic burnt crust. Line a 9-inch springform pan generously with parchment paper, making sure it extends over the edges. This helps the cheesecake rise beautifully and prevents sticking while embracing that rustic look.
Step 2: Beat the Cream Cheese and Sugar
Place the room temperature cream cheese in a large mixing bowl and beat it until smooth and free from lumps. Add the caster sugar gradually and continue beating until the mixture is creamy and glossy. This step is essential for the perfect texture—take your time to get it completely smooth.
Step 3: Incorporate the Eggs
Lightly whisk the eggs to break them up, then add them slowly into the cream cheese mixture, folding gently as you go. This careful incorporation helps to maintain the airiness while blending all the flavors seamlessly.
Step 4: Add Cream, Flour, and Vanilla
Pour in the whipping cream, sprinkle the flour over the batter, and add the vanilla bean extract. Gently fold everything together until just combined. Overmixing here could lead to a dense cheesecake, so keep it light but thorough.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and place it on the center rack in the oven. Bake for about 45 minutes until the top is a deep golden-brown with a lovely burnt touch. The interior should still tremble slightly; that’s the secret to its creamy, custard-like inside.
Step 6: Cool and Remove from Pan
Once baked, let the cheesecake cool completely in the pan to room temperature before carefully removing the springform. Chilling it in the fridge for a few hours or overnight enhances the flavor and texture beautifully.
How to Serve Basque Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar can complement the caramelized top without overpowering the rich flavor. Fresh berries or a drizzle of honey also add a refreshing contrast that brightens each bite wonderfully.
Side Dishes
Basque cheesecake is decadently rich on its own, so serving it with light accompaniments like a tangy berry compote or a dollop of whipped cream offers a delightful balance. For coffee or tea lovers, a strong espresso on the side completes the pairing perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing the cheesecake into rustic wedges and serving it on wooden boards adorned with edible flowers or herbs to enhance that homemade charm. Alternatively, pair a small slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and toasted nuts for a gourmet dessert experience that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
The beauty of this Basque Cheesecake Recipe is that it tastes even better after resting. Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, ensuring it stays moist and flavorful.
Freezing
You can freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then placed in an airtight container. Freeze them for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying to preserve its luscious texture.
Reheating
For the best experience, it’s recommended to eat the cheesecake chilled or at room temperature. If you prefer a warm slice, gently heat it in a low oven (about 250°F / 120°C) for 10 minutes, but avoid microwaving to keep that smooth, creamy consistency intact.
FAQs
What makes Basque cheesecake different from regular cheesecake?
Unlike traditional cheesecakes with a crust, Basque cheesecake has no crust and features a deeply caramelized, almost burnt top with a custardy, soft interior. Its bold baking technique creates unique flavors and textures that set it apart.
Can I use any type of cream cheese?
While you can try different brands, full-fat cream cheese like Philadelphia tends to offer the best texture and flavor for Basque cheesecake. Avoid low-fat versions as they can affect creaminess.
Is it necessary to use vanilla bean extract?
Vanilla bean extract adds subtle depth and enhances the cheesecake’s richness, but if you don’t have it, pure vanilla extract works well too. It’s about layering flavors to complement the cream cheese.
Why does the cheesecake’s top look burnt?
The intentionally burnt top is a hallmark of this recipe. It adds a pleasant bitterness that contrasts beautifully with the sweet, creamy interior, making each bite exciting and well-rounded.
Can I make this cheesecake gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blends that measure like regular flour. This simple swap keeps the texture intact without losing any flavor.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about the Basque Cheesecake Recipe that elevates any occasion, from casual get-togethers to special celebrations. Its simplicity, combined with that unforgettable burnt top and creamy center, makes it a recipe you’ll want to return to time and time again. Give it a try, and prepare to impress yourself and everyone you share it with!
