Burnt Basque Cheesecake Recipe

Say hello to the Burnt Basque Cheesecake — a cheesecake that’s deliberately cracked, caramelized, and deeply golden. Originating in San Sebastián, Spain, this crustless beauty is the anti-cheesecake: no water bath, no crust, no stress… just pure, scorched-on-purpose deliciousness.

With its dark, almost burnt top and soft custard-like center, the Burnt Basque Cheesecake is effortlessly chic and perfect for beginner bakers or dessert enthusiasts who like their sweets bold and unique.

🌟 Why You’ll Love Burnt Basque Cheesecake

1. No crust, no fuss
2. Naturally gluten-free
3. Rich, creamy texture with a caramelized top
4. Requires just a handful of ingredients
5. Bakes in under an hour
6. Rustic elegance that looks stunning with minimal effort

🕒 Prep & Bake Time

1. Yields: 8–10 slices
2. Skill Level: Easy

🛒 Ingredients

Tip: All ingredients should be at room temperature for best results.

1. 500g (17.6 oz) cream cheese
2. 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
3. 3 large eggs
4. 1½ cups (360ml) heavy cream
5. 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
6. ¼ cup (30g) all-purpose flour (or almond flour for GF)
7. ¼ tsp salt

👨‍🍳 How to Make Burnt Basque Cheesecake

🔹 1. Prep the Pan & Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F).
2. Line a 9-inch springform or round cake pan with 2 sheets of parchment paper, letting the paper extend above the rim to create that iconic rustic edge.

🧠 Pro Tip: Don’t skip double-lining — it protects against leaks and adds texture to the top edges.

🔹 2. Mix the Batter

1. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
2. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.
3. Pour in cream and vanilla; mix until well combined.
4. Sift in flour and salt, folding gently until smooth and lump-free.

🎯 Don’t overmix — air bubbles are okay!

🔹 3. Bake the Cheesecake

1. Pour batter into the prepared pan.
2. Bake for 45–55 minutes until the top is deep brown and puffed, but still slightly jiggly in the center.
3. Cool at room temperature until deflated and set.
4. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) before slicing.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

1. Dust with powdered sugar for a soft contrast
2. Serve with a spoonful of berry compote or fig jam
3. Drizzle with honey or caramel
4. Enjoy with espresso or dessert wine

🔄 Variations & Add-Ons

📌 Tags

#burntbasquecheesecake #nocrustcheesecake #spanishdesserts #easybaking #cheesecakerecipes #rusticdesserts #crackedsweets

🗂️ Recipe Summary

1. Cuisine: Spanish (Basque)
2. Course: Dessert
3. Method: Bake
4. Difficulty: Easy
5. Diet: Vegetarian (Gluten-Free adaptable)

❤️ Final Thoughts: Let It Burn (Beautifully)

With its scorched top and molten interior, the Burnt Basque Cheesecake is a rule-breaking dessert that’s as simple as it is elegant. No need to fuss over cracks or perfection — this cheesecake is about flavor, not form.

It’s proof that sometimes, burnt is best. So grab a fork, slice in, and fall in love with this new classic. 🔥

📸 Show Off Your Burn!

Tried this recipe? Snap a photo and tag it with #BurntButBeautiful or #BasqueBake — I’d love to see your caramelized creations!