Irresistibly Creamy Burnt Basque Cheesecake

4 Simple Ingredients

• 675 grams cream cheese, at room temperature
• 200 grams white sugar
• 5 whole eggs
• 240 grams cream (heavy, thickened, all-purpose, or sour cream)

Optional Add-Ins

• Lemon zest and vanilla extract
• Coffee powder for a Mocha Burnt Basque Cheesecake
• Green tea powder for a Matcha Burnt Basque Cheesecake
• Ube powder for a unique Ube Burnt Basque Cheesecake

Method: Baking the Perfect Cheesecake

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). If you prefer a more burnt top, set it to 425°F (218°C) or even 450°F (232°C).
2. Prepare a 9-inch round pan by lining it with parchment paper. Push the parchment paper to fit the pan snugly. You can also use an 8-inch pan, two 5-inch pans, a square pan, or even a cupcake pan.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese and sugar. Beat until smooth, light, and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
4. Scrape the sides of the mixing bowl to ensure no cream cheese is left unblended.
5. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
6. Pour in the cream and mix until well combined.
7. If desired, add your choice of optional add-ins for a unique flavor twist.
8. Pour the cheesecake mixture into the prepared pan.
9. Bake for 40-45 minutes. The middle should still jiggle slightly when removed from the oven, as it will set as it cools.
10. Allow the cheesecake to cool completely before slicing and serving.

Pro Tips for a Flawless Cheesecake

• Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing.
• Always scrape the sides and bottom of the mixing bowl to ensure a smooth mixture.
• Feel free to get creative with flavors! Add coffee powder, green tea powder, or ube powder for a unique twist.

Possible Ingredient Substitutes

• Cream cheese: You can use Neufchâtel cheese as a lower-fat alternative to cream cheese.
• Heavy cream: You may substitute whole milk or half-and-half, but the cheesecake will be less rich. You may also use sour cream or all purpose cream.

Nutritional Information

This recipe yields 12 servings, with each serving being approximately 130 grams. Here's a detailed breakdown of the nutritional information per serving:

• Calories: 395 kcal
• Total Fat: 33g
• Saturated Fat: 20g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.5g
• Monounsaturated Fat: 8.8g
• Cholesterol: 160mg
• Sodium: 260mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 20g
• Dietary Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 18g
• Protein: 7g
• Vitamin D: 1.3µg
• Calcium: 70mg
• Iron: 0.6mg
• Potassium: 135mg

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

Complementary Sides and Pairings

Serve your Burnt Basque Cheesecake with fresh berries, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce to elevate the dessert experience. You can also pair it with a glass of dessert wine, such as a Moscato or a late harvest Riesling.

FAQs About Burnt Basque Cheesecake

How should I store my Burnt Basque Cheesecake?

Store your cheesecake in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, for up to 5 days.

Can I freeze the Burnt Basque Cheesecake?

Yes, you can freeze the cheesecake for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or store it in an airtight container. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Why is my cheesecake cracked on top?

Cheesecakes can crack due to sudden temperature changes or overbaking. However, the beauty of the Burnt Basque Cheesecake is that cracks and imperfections are part of its rustic charm.

What is the ideal oven temperature for a Burnt Basque Cheesecake?

Bake the cheesecake at 400°F (204°C) for a lightly burnt top. If you prefer a darker, more burnt appearance, increase the temperature to 425°F (218°C) or 450°F (232°C).

Why is my cheesecake not setting in the middle?

The center of the Burnt Basque Cheesecake should still jiggle slightly when removed from the oven. It will continue to set as it cools down. If it's too liquid, bake it for a few more minutes and monitor the texture.

Last Bites

The Burnt Basque Cheesecake is not only a delightful dessert but also a fun and creative culinary experience. It's easy to make, open to various flavor twists, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. So, preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and prepare to be amazed by this delicious treat!