Indulging in a slice of Basque cheesecake is like diving into a creamy cloud of happiness. Each bite reveals its rich, velvety texture, with a hint of caramelization on the top that adds an irresistible crunch. The sweet aroma wafts through the air, enticing you to take just one more slice—who can resist?
As I recall the first time I tasted this delightful dessert, I was instantly hooked. My friends and I gathered around the table after dinner, and there it was: the star of the show. This cheesecake isn’t just a dessert; it’s a reason to celebrate life’s little joys. Perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to Tuesday-night treat yourself moments, this Basque cheesecake will have everyone asking for seconds.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Basque cheesecake is incredibly easy to make, even for beginners
- The flavor profile combines sweetness and creaminess with a delightful burnt top
- Its rustic appearance adds visual appeal that will impress your guests
- Serve it as a dessert or pair it with fresh fruit for breakfast
There was that unforgettable night when my aunt tried her hand at making Basque cheesecake for the family gathering. Let’s just say, her attempt turned into a delicious disaster—think gooey goodness instead of the planned perfection!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Cream Cheese: Use full-fat cream cheese for ultimate creaminess; it’s essential for that rich flavor.
Sugar: Granulated sugar enhances sweetness; adjust based on your preference for sweetness.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness; opt for high-quality heavy cream for better results.
Eggs: Large eggs work best; they help bind everything together beautifully.
Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract provides depth; avoid imitation varieties if possible.
Flour: Just a touch of all-purpose flour helps achieve the right consistency without being too dense.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a springform pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking later on.
Prepare the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. You want no lumps here, so mix thoroughly!
Add Cream and Eggs: Gradually mix in the heavy cream until well-blended. Then add eggs one at a time, ensuring they’re fully incorporated before adding another.
Incorporate Vanilla and Flour: Stir in the vanilla extract and sifted flour gently until just combined—don’t overmix! We want that airy texture.
Bake to Perfection: Pour your batter into the prepared pan and bake in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes. Look for that beautiful caramelized top!
Cool Before Serving: Once baked, allow it to cool completely before removing from the pan. Chill in the fridge for at least two hours before serving—if you can wait that long!
You Must Know
- This Basque cheesecake is rich, creamy, and delightfully caramelized on top
- Its unique texture and flavor will impress everyone at your table
- Keep an eye on the baking time to avoid overcooking, which can lead to a dry cake
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a springform pan with parchment paper and whip together cream cheese, sugar, and eggs until smooth. Bake for about 25-30 minutes until the top is a beautiful dark brown.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment with flavors by adding vanilla extract or citrus zest to the batter. You can also serve it with fresh berries or a drizzle of caramel for an extra touch of indulgence.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Basque cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. To reheat, simply let it come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter that blends easily
- Be cautious not to overmix once you add eggs; this will keep your cheesecake dense and creamy
- Always check for doneness a few minutes before the timer goes off to prevent overbaking
When I first baked this cheesecake, my friends declared it “life-changing.” Their enthusiastic reactions made me feel like a baking superstar, even if my kitchen looked like a tornado had hit it!
FAQ
What makes Basque cheesecake different from regular cheesecake?
Basque cheesecake has a unique burnt top and creamy center compared to traditional varieties.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?
Using low-fat cream cheese may alter the texture; full-fat is recommended for best results.
How can I tell when my Basque cheesecake is done?
The edges should be set while the middle remains slightly jiggly when you remove it from the oven.
Basque Cheesecake
Basque cheesecake is a creamy, indulgent dessert that delights with its unique burnt top and velvety texture. Each slice offers a perfect balance of sweetness and richness, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special moment or simply treating yourself, this cheesecake promises to impress everyone at your table.
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 16 oz (450g) full-fat cream cheese
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a springform pan with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and lump-free.
- Gradually add the heavy cream, mixing well. Incorporate eggs one at a time until fully blended.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and sifted flour gently until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 40-45 minutes until the top is caramelized.
- Allow the cheesecake to cool completely before chilling in the fridge for at least two hours before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Basque
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
