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The smooth, creamy batter for a crustless cheesecake being poured into a parchment-lined pan before baking.

Burnt Basque Cheesecake: The Ultimate Guide to the Famously Burnt Dessert

Discover the best Burnt Basque Cheesecake recipe! This guide shows you how to achieve the iconic caramelized top and ultra-creamy, crustless center with just a few simple ingredients.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 10 slices
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Basque, Spanish
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Cheesecake Ingredients
  • 32 oz full-fat block cream cheese softened to room temperature
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 6 large eggs at room temperature
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour sifted
  • 1/2 tsp fine sea salt

Equipment

  • 1 9-inch springform pan
  • Parchment Paper
  • 1 Electric mixer

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a 9-inch springform pan with two overlapping pieces of parchment paper, ensuring the paper extends at least 2 inches above the sides of the pan.
  2. In a large bowl with an electric mixer, beat the room temperature cream cheese and granulated sugar on medium speed until completely smooth and free of lumps.
  3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition until just combined. Slowly pour in the heavy cream and vanilla extract, mixing until incorporated.
  4. Sift in the all-purpose flour and salt. Mix on low speed until the batter is just smooth. Do not overmix.
  5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 50-60 minutes, until the top is deeply browned and the center still has a significant jiggle.
  6. Let the cheesecake cool completely on a wire rack. It will deflate as it cools. Once at room temperature, refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, before slicing and serving.

Notes

Room Temperature is Crucial: Using cold ingredients will result in a lumpy batter. Set your cream cheese and eggs out at least 2 hours before you begin.
Don't Fear the Color: The dark, 'burnt' top is the signature of this cheesecake. It provides a delicious caramelized flavor that balances the creamy interior. Trust the baking time!