Make a rich, creamy, and custardy Basque cheesecake with a signature caramelized top. This recipe requires no water bath and is naturally crustless for simple preparation.
Author:Ahazzam
Prep Time:15 min
Cook Time:60 min
Total Time:7 hours 15 min
Yield:10 servings
Category:Dessert
Method:Baking
Cuisine:Spanish
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
900g cream cheese, softened
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
6 large eggs
3 cups heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). Line a 9-inch springform pan with two layers of parchment paper, allowing the paper to extend several inches above the rim of the pan. Crumple the paper slightly before placing it in the pan to help achieve the rustic look.
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
Add the sugar and beat until just combined. Do not overmix.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing briefly after each addition until incorporated.
Slowly mix in the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt until the batter is smooth.
Sift the flour over the batter and gently fold it in until no streaks of flour remain. The batter will be thin.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
Bake for 50 to 60 minutes. The top should be deeply caramelized, almost black in spots, and the edges should be set, but the center should still wobble significantly when gently shaken.
Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack at room temperature for at least 2 hours.
Chill the cheesecake in the refrigerator for a minimum of 6 hours, preferably overnight, before serving.
When ready to serve, carefully remove the parchment paper sides.
Notes
For a loaf pan variation, use an 8.5 x 4.5 inch loaf pan lined with parchment paper and reduce the baking time by about 10 to 15 minutes.
The high heat is necessary to achieve the signature burnt exterior while keeping the inside creamy.
Do not try to smooth the top of the batter after pouring; the rustic appearance is part of the style.