Description
This authentic Basque Burnt Cheesecake is a rich and creamy dessert known for its deeply caramelized, almost burnt top and custardy interior. Originating from the Basque region of Spain, this crustless cheesecake offers a unique combination of textures and flavors, making it an irresistible treat for cheesecake lovers. Its simple ingredients and straightforward baking method make it a perfect dessert to impress guests with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheesecake Batter
- 2 pounds cream cheese, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a 10-inch springform pan with parchment paper, making sure to leave enough overhang on the sides to easily lift out the cheesecake later.
- Mix Cream Cheese and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until the mixture is smooth and creamy, free of lumps.
- Add Eggs: Incorporate the eggs one at a time into the cream cheese mixture, mixing well after each addition to achieve a smooth batter.
- Add Cream, Vanilla, and Salt: Pour in the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt. Continue mixing the batter until everything is well combined and silky smooth.
- Incorporate Flour: Sift the all-purpose flour over the batter and gently fold it in until fully incorporated, taking care not to overmix.
- Fill Pan and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared springform pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, until the top is deeply browned and looks burnt but the center still jiggles slightly when shaken.
- Cool and Chill: Let the cheesecake cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, or overnight, before slicing and serving.
Notes
- The cheesecake rises dramatically in the oven and then falls as it cools; this is normal and part of its rustic charm.
- For a more intense caramelized flavor, you can bake it until the top is very dark, almost blackened but not burnt to the point of bitterness.
- Serve the Basque Burnt Cheesecake plain to appreciate its rich flavor, or with fresh berries for a bright contrast.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Spanish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 130g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 24 g
- Sodium: 310 mg
- Fat: 34 g
- Saturated Fat: 20 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 165 mg
