Basque Cheesecake

Basque cheesecake is a decadent dessert from Spain’s Basque Country. It’s known for its unique burnt top and creamy interior. The burnt exterior creates a caramelized flavor, while the interior remains smooth and rich.

Ingredients

• 500g (17.6 oz) cream cheese, at room temperature
• 200g (7 oz) granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 250ml (8.5 fl oz) heavy cream (35% fat)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 15g (2 tbsp) all-purpose flour
• A pinch of salt

Equipment Needed

• 8-inch (20 cm) round springform pan
• Parchment paper
• Electric mixer (stand mixer or hand mixer)
• Large mixing bowl
• Small sifter or fine mesh sieve (for the flour)
• Rubber spatula
• Cooling rack
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Kitchen scale (optional for precision)
• Oven mitts

Nutritional Information (per serving, assuming 6 servings)

• Calories: ~515 kcal
• Fat: 36g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 8g
• Sugars: 26g
• Sodium: 240mg
• Fiber: 0g
• Cholesterol: 160mg

(Note: Nutritional values are approximations and can vary based on specific brands of ingredients used.)

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Cooking time: 50 minutes
• Cooling time: 1 hour (plus 4 hours or more for chilling)
• Total time: 6 hours (including chilling)

Preparation

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line the springform pan with parchment paper, making sure the paper extends beyond the edges. This creates the classic rustic look and ensures easy removal.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Batter

1. Soften the Cream Cheese: Ensure that your cream cheese is softened to room temperature. This step is crucial for creating a smooth and lump-free cheesecake batter. You can leave the cream cheese out for about 1 hour before starting, or gently microwave it for 10-second intervals if you’re short on time.
2. Beat the Cream Cheese and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl with a rubber spatula to incorporate all the cream cheese.
3. Add the Eggs: Crack the eggs into the bowl one at a time, beating well after each addition. This will help the batter stay silky and well-combined.
4. Add the Heavy Cream and Vanilla: Pour in the heavy cream and vanilla extract. Continue beating on medium speed until the batter is smooth and slightly frothy, about 1 minute.
5. Sift in the Flour: Sift the all-purpose flour into the mixture and add a pinch of salt. Gently fold the flour into the batter using a rubber spatula, ensuring there are no lumps. Be careful not to overmix; you want the flour to be just incorporated.

Step 3: Pour and Bake

1. Pour the Batter: Carefully pour the prepared cheesecake batter into the lined springform pan. Use your spatula to smooth the top.
2. Bake the Cheesecake: Place the cheesecake in the center of your preheated oven. Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until the top is deeply browned and the edges are set. The center of the cheesecake should still be slightly jiggly when you shake the pan gently.

• Tip: The signature Basque cheesecake has a burnt, almost scorched top, so don’t be alarmed if the top looks quite dark!

Step 4: Cool the Cheesecake

1. Cool at Room Temperature: Once the cheesecake is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan on a cooling rack for about 1 hour.
2. Chill in the Fridge: After the cheesecake has cooled to room temperature, transfer it to the refrigerator. Allow the cheesecake to chill for at least 4 hours, though overnight chilling is ideal for the best texture and flavor.

Step 5: Serve

1. Remove from the Pan: When you’re ready to serve, carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan and peel away the parchment paper. The edges of the cake may be rustic and cracked, which is completely normal for Basque cheesecake.
2. Slice and Serve: Slice the cheesecake into 6 equal pieces using a sharp knife. Wipe the knife between cuts for clean slices. You can serve it plain, or garnish with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce if desired.

Tips for Success

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensuring that your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature will make it easier to combine them and result in a smoother batter.
• Don’t Worry About the Burnt Look: The dark top is a signature characteristic of Basque cheesecake. The caramelized flavor pairs beautifully with the rich, creamy interior.
• Chilling Time: While it might be tempting to cut into the cheesecake after it’s cooled for an hour at room temperature, chilling it in the fridge for at least 4 hours ensures that the texture is properly set and deliciously creamy.
• Rustic Charm: The rustic, cracked appearance of the Basque cheesecake is part of its charm. Don’t aim for perfection—the beauty of this cake lies in its imperfections.
• Serving Ideas: While delicious on its own, Basque cheesecake pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit, honey, or a glass of dessert wine.

Variations

• Chocolate Basque Cheesecake: Add 100g of melted dark chocolate to the batter for a chocolate twist. Mix in the melted chocolate just before adding the flour.
• Citrus Infusion: Add the zest of 1 lemon or orange for a refreshing citrusy flavor that balances the richness of the cheesecake.
• Salted Caramel Basque Cheesecake: Drizzle salted caramel sauce over the cheesecake before serving for an indulgent treat.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Storage: The cheesecake can be stored in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 5 days. It tastes even better after a day or two as the flavors meld together.
• Freezing: You can freeze Basque cheesecake for up to 3 months. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Basque cheesecake is a deceptively simple dessert that packs a lot of flavor and texture. Its caramelized top and creamy, custard-like interior make it an instant hit. This recipe, made with just a few basic ingredients, is straightforward to follow and can be prepared with minimal effort. Whether you’re a cheesecake lover or just want to try something new, Basque cheesecake is sure to impress your family and friends.