Basque cheesecake is a rich, caramelized dessert that stands out with its dark, cracked top and creamy, custardy center. Unlike traditional cheesecakes, it has no crust, no water bath, and requires minimal fuss, making it a perfect choice for both beginner and experienced bakers. This Loaf Pan Basque Cheesecake version is smaller, making it ideal for small gatherings or personal indulgence. Its simplicity and unique burnt flavor make it irresistible!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• 2 large eggs

• ½ cup heavy cream

• ½ tsp vanilla extract

• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for a gluten-free version)

• ¼ tsp salt

• Vegetable oil or butter for greasing the pan

Directions

1. Prepare Your Oven and Loaf Pan: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, ensuring extra paper hangs over the edges for easy removal.

2. Make the Cheesecake Batter: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy (about 2 minutes). Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the heavy cream, vanilla extract, flour (or cornstarch), and salt until just combined.

3. Pour and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 45-50 minutes, until the top is golden brown and slightly cracked. The center should still jiggle slightly.

4. Cool and Serve: Let the cheesecake cool in the pan for 1 hour, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight). Once set, remove it from the pan using the parchment paper and slice into thick, creamy pieces.

5. Serve: Enjoy chilled or at room temperature. You can also dust it with powdered sugar or serve with fresh berries for extra flair.

Nutrients (Per Slice)

• Calories: 320

• Carbohydrates: 18g

• Protein: 6g

• Fat: 25g

• Fiber: 0g

• Sugar: 15g

The Charm of the Loaf Pan Basque Cheesecake

The loaf pan Basque cheesecake is perfect for those who want to enjoy the delicious, caramelized flavor of the original Basque cheesecake but in a smaller, more manageable size. This version is baked in a 9×5-inch loaf pan, which results in a cheesecake that’s easier to store and slice, making it a great choice for small gatherings, personal indulgence, or those who want a lighter portion of this decadent dessert. While it maintains all the delicious elements of the classic Basque cheesecake, the loaf pan version requires less time and effort, making it accessible for anyone looking to try their hand at this delicious treat.

What makes Basque cheesecake so appealing is the simplicity of its preparation. There’s no need for a complicated crust or a water bath, which is a key feature in many traditional cheesecakes. Instead, the batter is poured directly into the pan and baked, creating a perfectly smooth, creamy interior with a slightly burnt, caramelized top that adds to its charm. The burnt top, rather than being a flaw, is an essential part of the cheesecake’s unique flavor, adding a slight bitterness that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the cream cheese filling.

The Simplicity of the Ingredients

One of the standout features of Basque cheesecake is its minimalist ingredient list. This version only requires cream cheese, eggs, heavy cream, sugar, flour (or cornstarch for a gluten-free option), and a pinch of salt. The simplicity of these ingredients is key to the cheesecake’s rich and creamy texture, while the eggs and heavy cream provide the luscious custard-like consistency that is characteristic of this dessert. The addition of vanilla extract elevates the flavor, adding a subtle aromatic note that complements the richness of the cream cheese.

This straightforward ingredient list means that the cheesecake can be made with ease, even for those who may be new to baking. The ingredients are easy to find, and the batter comes together quickly, making this dessert a convenient option for anyone craving a delicious homemade treat without the hassle of complicated recipes or specialized ingredients.

The Baking Process: Creating the Signature Burnt Top

The key to achieving the perfect Basque cheesecake is in the baking process. The cheesecake is baked at a high temperature—400°F (200°C)—which helps create its signature burnt top. This high heat allows the exterior of the cheesecake to caramelize, resulting in a beautiful dark, almost burnt crust, while the interior remains creamy and smooth. The slight cracking on top further enhances the appearance and texture of the cake, giving it a rustic, homemade feel that is part of its appeal.

Baking time is crucial to achieving the perfect texture. The cheesecake should be baked for 45 to 50 minutes, during which the top should become golden brown and slightly cracked. The center of the cheesecake should still jiggle slightly, which is an indicator that it’s perfectly set without being overcooked. The baking process is relatively quick, and the results are well worth the short wait.

Cooling and Chilling for the Best Texture

After baking, it’s important to allow the cheesecake to cool in the pan for about 1 hour to prevent it from cracking excessively as it cools down. Once the cheesecake has cooled to room temperature, it should be placed in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow it to fully set. The chilling step is essential for the cheesecake to achieve its creamy, custard-like consistency, and it also helps enhance the flavors.

Once the cheesecake has been refrigerated and set, it can be removed from the loaf pan using the parchment paper for easy lifting. The cheesecake can be sliced into thick, creamy pieces that are sure to impress anyone who tastes it.

Serving Suggestions: Enjoying Basque Cheesecake

Basque cheesecake is delicious when served chilled or at room temperature, and it can be enjoyed on its own or with simple garnishes. A light dusting of powdered sugar can add a touch of sweetness and elegance, while fresh berries provide a burst of color and a refreshing contrast to the rich and creamy cheesecake. The simplicity of the dessert makes it easy to pair with a variety of accompaniments, but it’s also fantastic on its own, allowing the bold, creamy flavor to shine.

This dessert is ideal for intimate gatherings or as a personal indulgence, making it a perfect choice for a special occasion, family dinner, or even a solo treat after a long day. Whether served as the grand finale of a meal or enjoyed as an afternoon snack, Basque cheesecake is a comforting and satisfying dessert that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Nutritional Information

While Basque cheesecake is a rich treat, it’s worth savoring in moderation. Each slice provides 320 calories, with 18 grams of carbohydrates, 6 grams of protein, and 25 grams of fat, including 15 grams of saturated fat. It also contains 15 grams of sugar, contributing to its indulgent sweetness. While it’s not a light dessert, it’s certainly a satisfying one that offers a wonderful balance of creamy texture and rich flavor. The lack of a crust keeps the calorie count lower compared to traditional cheesecakes, making it a slightly more streamlined option for those who want to enjoy a delicious dessert without too much fuss.

Conclusion: A Decadent Yet Simple Dessert

Basque cheesecake is a dessert that combines simplicity with decadence. With its creamy, custard-like interior, dark, caramelized top, and minimal ingredients, this dessert is a delight to make and eat. The loaf pan version is particularly appealing, offering a smaller, more manageable size that’s perfect for smaller gatherings or personal indulgence. Whether you’re a beginner baker or an experienced one, this Basque cheesecake is sure to impress with its unique flavor, ease of preparation, and rustic elegance. So go ahead, try your hand at making this delightful treat, and enjoy the sweet, rich experience of Basque cheesecake in your own kitchen.