Embark on a culinary journey to the heart of Basque Country with this exquisite Basque Cheesecake, renowned for its exceptionally creamy texture. This cheesecake is simpler and rustic compared to its New York counterpart, characterized by its burnt exterior and irresistibly soft, custardy center. Made with a few high-quality ingredients, this cheesecake is straightforward to prepare and perfect for those who appreciate a less traditional, deeply flavorful dessert.
Why You'll Love This Recipe:
- Incredibly Creamy Texture: The combination of cream cheese and heavy cream creates a smooth, velvety texture that melts in your mouth.
- Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: With just a handful of ingredients, each element shines, providing a rich and satisfying taste.
- Versatile Dessert: Perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to more formal events.
Perfect Occasion: This Basque Cheesecake is ideal for:
- Dinner Parties: Impress your guests with this elegant and unusual dessert.
- Special Celebrations: Whether it's a birthday, anniversary, or a holiday, this cheesecake makes a luxurious treat.
- Casual Dessert Nights: Enjoy a slice with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy, indulgent evening.
Decoration Tips:
- Serve with Chocolate: Accompany each slice with a drizzle of melted milk chocolate for an added touch of decadence.
- Dust with Powdered Sugar: Just before serving, dust lightly with powdered sugar for a beautiful contrast with the burnt top.
- Fresh Berries: Offer fresh berries on the side for a refreshing, tangy complement to the creamy cheesecake.
Ingredients:
- 500 g cream cheese
- 350 ml heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 150 g sugar
- 4 eggs
- 25 g flour (or cornstarch for a gluten-free option)
Preparation:
- Prepare the Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth.
- Add eggs one at a time, fully incorporating each before adding the next.
- Sift in the flour (or cornstarch) and slowly pour in the heavy cream, mixing until just combined to maintain the batter's lightness.
- Bake:
- Pour the batter into a 20-22 cm springform pan lined with parchment paper. The paper should come up above the rim to contain the batter as it rises.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (392°F) for about 50 minutes. The top should be beautifully golden-brown and charred in spots.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the cheesecake cool at room temperature before removing it from the pan. Chill in the refrigerator for a few hours to set completely.
- Serve chilled, with a side of melted milk chocolate or your favorite garnishes.
Enjoy this luscious Basque Cheesecake, a dessert that brings simplicity and elegance together in each creamy, dreamy slice. Perfect for those who love a less conventional, more texturally complex cheesecake.