Description
Burnt Basque Cheesecake is a rich, creamy dessert with a signature deeply golden, caramelized top and a luscious, soufflé-like texture. This no-bake crust recipe uses simple ingredients like cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and heavy cream, baked at a high temperature to achieve its iconic rustic appearance and velvety inside. Perfect for those who love a creamy cheesecake with a slightly smoky, burnt flavor contrast.
Ingredients
Cheesecake Batter
- 2 pounds (four 8 oz packages) cream cheese, room temperature
- 2 cups (414g) sugar
- 3 tablespoons (24g) all-purpose flour
- 7 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 1/4 cups (300ml) heavy whipping cream
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper, pressing it into the sides and leaving 1-2 inches of overhang. You may need to pleat and fold the paper to fit it snugly, which will help achieve the cheesecake’s signature rustic look.
- Mix Cream Cheese, Sugar, and Flour: In a large mixing bowl, beat the room-temperature cream cheese, sugar, and all-purpose flour on medium-low speed. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed, and mix until the batter is very smooth with no lumps.
- Add Eggs One at a Time: Increase your mixer speed to medium and add the eggs one by one. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next to ensure a smooth, even batter.
- Add Heavy Cream: Pour in the heavy whipping cream and mix on medium-low speed until the mixture is combined and smooth.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Pour the batter into the prepared springform pan. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 40-50 minutes, until the top is deeply golden brown and caramelized but not actually burnt. The cheesecake should be set but still jiggly (not sloshy) in the center. Oven times can vary, so watch the color and texture closely.
- Cool to Room Temperature: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack to room temperature.
- Serve: For the best soufflé-like texture, enjoy the cheesecake at room temperature. Alternatively, refrigerate it to serve chilled, which will yield a creamier yet slightly denser texture.
Notes
- Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter and better incorporation.
- Do not worry about the high overhang of parchment paper; it helps contain the batter and adds to the rustic appearance.
- The cheesecake should be deeply golden but not burnt; a little darker top is characteristic.
- Check the center jiggle with a gentle shake; it should wobble slightly but not be liquid.
- Serves 12, making it ideal for gatherings and celebrations.
- Enjoy the cheesecake fresh for the lightest texture or chilled for a creamier mouthfeel.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Spanish