Description
This Mini Basque Cheesecake is an easy and delicious recipe that yields two perfectly sized individual cheesecakes with a rich creamy texture and a signature deeply caramelized top. Baked at high heat, these cheesecakes develop their characteristic dark golden crust while maintaining a soft and custardy center. Ideal for a quick dessert or a special treat, this recipe uses simple ingredients and minimal preparation.
Ingredients
Cheesecake Batter
- 1 cup cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 large egg (at room temperature)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) to ensure it reaches the high temperature necessary for creating the Basque cheesecake’s caramelized crust.
- Beat Cream Cheese: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer for about 30 seconds until it becomes smooth and creamy, forming the base of your batter.
- Mix Dry Ingredients and Add Liquid Ingredients: Add the granulated sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and salt to the cream cheese mixture. Mix until the mixture is light and fluffy. Then, add the egg and heavy cream gradually, mixing until the batter is fully smooth and combined with no lumps.
- Prepare Dutch Ovens: Line two mini Dutch ovens (approximately 3 inches wide by 2 inches high) with parchment paper. Let the paper edges extend over the sides to make it easier to remove the cheesecakes after baking.
- Fill and Bake: Divide the cheesecake batter evenly between the two lined Dutch ovens. Place them in the preheated oven and bake for about 18 minutes. The cheesecakes are ready when their tops are deeply golden to nearly dark brown, and the centers have set but still retain a slight jiggle.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the mini cheesecakes from the oven and allow them to cool in their containers before gently removing and serving for the best texture and flavor experience.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese and egg are at room temperature for a smooth batter without lumps.
- Use parchment paper to easily lift the cheesecakes out of the Dutch ovens without breaking.
- The signature dark top develops from baking at a high temperature—don’t be alarmed if it looks almost burnt.
- Let the cheesecakes cool completely to set properly and enhance flavor.
- These mini cheesecakes are perfect for individual servings or gifts.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Spanish