Indulge in the art of making Basque cheesecake, a delectable treat that marries creamy interiors with caramelized tops. Explore the history, variations, and easy techniques to craft this culinary masterpiece at home. From its humble origins to its global acclaim, discover the allure of burnt Basque cheesecake that's captivating taste buds worldwide.
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F).
Prepare the Pan: Grease a 9-inch (23 cm) round cake pan with butter or line it with parchment paper. The parchment paper should hang over the sides of the pan to make it easier to remove the cheesecake later.
Mix batter:Whisk cream cheese until it becomes creamyAdd heavy cream and sugar and and keep whisking.Mix in flour and vanilla extract until combined.Beat in eggs one at a time until just incorporated.
Bake:Pour the batter into the prepared pan.Bang the pan on the counter to release air bubbles.Pop any remaining bubbles with a knife.Bake for 45-55 minutes, until the top is well-caramelized and the center is slightly jiggly.
Cool: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 20-30 minutes. It will continue to set as it cools.
Chill: Once the cheesecake has cooled to room temperature, transfer it to the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 3-4 hours or overnight. Chilling helps the flavors develop and the texture to firm up.
Notes
More Tips:
The eggs contribute to the cheesecake's texture and richness.
Make sure the eggs are at room temperature for easier incorporation.
The rustic and slightly burnt appearance on the top is characteristic of Basque cheesecake and adds charm. This dessert is delicious on its own or can be served with fresh berries, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a dollop of whipped cream.