Dive into the rich, caramelized flavors of the San Sebastian Burnt Cheesecake, a delectable dessert hailing from the Basque region of Spain. This cheesecake stands out with its distinctive burnt exterior and creamy, decadent interior, offering a unique twist on the traditional cheesecake. Optionally enhanced with a crunchy biscuit base, this recipe provides a delightful contrast in textures, adding an extra layer of indulgence to an already luxurious treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The San Sebastian Burnt Cheesecake is celebrated for its simplicity and depth of flavor. The caramelized top, created by high-temperature baking, imparts a rich, toasty flavor that beautifully complements the silky smoothness of the cream cheese filling. The optional biscuit base adds a pleasant crunch, making each bite a perfect balance of creamy and crispy. This cheesecake is not overly sweet, appealing to those who prefer their desserts with a sophisticated edge.
Perfect Occasion
This cheesecake is ideal for special occasions, dinner parties, or as a gourmet dessert after a family meal. It’s also perfect for celebrations where you want to impress guests with something a bit out of the ordinary. The elegant appearance and unique taste make it a standout choice for any gathering.
Decoration Tips
To enhance the rustic charm of this cheesecake, serve it simply with a light dusting of powdered sugar. For a fresh contrast, accompany each slice with a berry compote or fresh berries on the side. Garnishing with a sprig of mint can add a pop of color and a refreshing note to the rich flavors.
Ingredients:
- For the Optional Biscuit Base:
- 1 cup digestive biscuits, finely ground
- 70 grams melted butter
- For the Cheesecake:
- 454 grams cream cheese, room temperature
- 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons sugar
- 3 eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
- Prepare the Base (optional):
- Mix the ground digestive biscuits with melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 6-inch springform pan lined with parchment paper. Set aside.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a food processor, blend the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add vanilla extract, then incorporate eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Mix in the heavy cream, flour, and salt until the batter is smooth.
- Pour the cheesecake mixture over the biscuit base (if using) in the springform pan.
- Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F). Bake the cheesecake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top is deeply caramelized and the center is still slightly jiggly.
- Remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature. Transfer to the refrigerator and chill overnight if serving the next day.
Enjoy!
Savor the unique taste and texture of your San Sebastian Burnt Cheesecake, a creamy delight with a caramelized top that offers a delicious contrast to the optional crunchy biscuit base. This cheesecake is sure to be a conversation starter and a memorable part of any culinary celebration.
