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Slice of Burnt Basque Cheesecake with caramelized top

Burnt Basque Cheesecake


  • Author: Savannah
  • Total Time: 40–45 minutes
  • Yield: 1012 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A creamy, custardy cheesecake with a signature deeply caramelized top and slightly “burnt” edges. This no-fuss dessert originates from Spain’s Basque region and is perfect for any occasion, offering a rustic, café-style charm with rich flavor and minimal fuss.


Ingredients

Scale

🛒 Ingredients (for one 9-inch round cake):

For the Cheesecake:

  • 2 lbs (900g) cream cheese, room temperature

  • 1 ½ cups (300g) granulated sugar

  • 5 large eggs

  • 2 cups (480ml) heavy cream

  • ¼ cup (30g) all-purpose flour

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

  • Pinch of salt

Optional for Serving:

  • Fresh berries

  • Whipped cream

  • Caramel drizzle


Instructions

📝 Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line with parchment paper, letting the paper rise above the pan edges (this helps contain the cheesecake as it rises).

Step 2: Make the Batter
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing until fully incorporated.

Whisk in the flour, salt, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually pour in the heavy cream and mix gently until fully combined.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the top is deeply golden brown and slightly burnt-looking, but the center still jiggles slightly when shaken.

Step 4: Cool and Serve
Allow cheesecake to cool to room temperature, then chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours (overnight is best). Remove from the pan and slice carefully. Serve plain or with berries, whipped cream, or caramel drizzle.

Notes

  • High Heat: The signature burnt top comes from baking at a higher temperature than traditional cheesecakes.
  • Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for smooth batter.
  • Rustic Look: Don’t worry about cracks or uneven edges—they add to the rustic charm.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
  • Category: Dessert / Cheesecake
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: Spanish / Basque