4 hacks to perfect basque cheesecake at home

Making Basque cheesecake at home can be quite challenging, despite its seemingly straightforward ingredients and method. Basque cheesecake requires a high baking temperature to achieve its iconic burnt top while maintaining a creamy, custardy interior. Getting the oven temperature just right can be tricky, as most conventional ovens can vary in accuracy.

Fancy a basque cheesecake this weekend? Try these easy hacks

Too little time can lead to a runny centre, while overbaking will result in a dense, dry texture. Finding that perfect balance is essential and often requires practice and careful monitoring. The signature texture of Basque cheesecake is its creamy, almost molten centre encased by a slightly burnt exterior. Achieving this texture can be difficult for home bakers, especially since even a slight variation in baking time can lead to a dry result. The use of high-fat content ingredients, such as cream cheese and heavy cream, can easily become overmixed, leading to a dense instead of a light and airy final product. If you’re making basque cheesecake at home this weekend, try these hacks

Use Quality Ingredients

The foundation of any excellent cheesecake is the quality of its ingredients. When preparing a Basque cheesecake, prioritize using high-quality cream cheese, fresh eggs, granulated sugar, and heavy cream. Opt for full-fat cream cheese for a rich texture and flavour; brands like Philadelphia are widely trusted for their quality. Using fresh, organic eggs can enhance the overall taste and richness of the cheesecake.

For the granulated sugar, consider using superfine sugar, as it dissolves more easily into the batter, ensuring a smoother texture without any graininess. Lastly, the heavy cream not only adds to the luscious mouthfeel but also contributes to the cheesecake's creamy consistency. If possible, use a heavy cream with a higher fat content—around 36%—for the best results.

Master the Baking Technique

The unique appeal of Basque cheesecake lies in its signature burnt top and custardy interior. Mastering the baking technique is crucial in achieving this coveted balance. Preheat your oven to a high temperature—typically around 400°F (200°C) or higher—before placing your cheesecake inside. A hot oven ensures that the outside of the cheesecake cooks and caramelizes while the inside remains soft and creamy.

To create the perfect burnished top, consider using a springform pan lined with parchment paper. The parchment should extend above the edges of the pan; this not only helps with the removal of the cheesecake later but also allows for a more even baking process. Once the cheesecake is in the oven, avoid opening the door during baking to maintain temperature stability. Depending on your oven, the baking time can range from 25 to 40 minutes. Keep an eye on it, looking for a darkly browned top with slight jiggle in the center—this indicates that it’s perfectly baked.

Cool and Chill Properly

After removing the Basque cheesecake from the oven, it’s essential to cool it properly. Allow the cheesecake to cool in the pan at room temperature for about 15 to 20 minutes before transferring it to the refrigerator. Rapid temperature changes can result in cracks or a dense texture. Once it’s at room temperature, cover it loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, although overnight is preferable. This chilling process allows the flavors to meld and the texture to set, transforming it into the creamy delight you expect from a Basque cheesecake.

If you’re planning to serve the cheesecake for a special occasion, consider chilling it the night before. This not only gives you ample time to achieve that perfect texture but also allows your cheesecake to taste even better the next day, as the flavors settle and deepen. When ready to serve, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 to 20 minutes to allow it to soften slightly, enhancing the creamy experience.

Be open to experiment with flavours

While the classic Basque cheesecake is delicious on its own, you can elevate its flavor profile with some creative additions. Consider incorporating ingredients such as vanilla extract or lemon zest into the batter for a subtle brightness that complements the cheesecake’s richness. A teaspoon or two of vanilla extract adds depth, while lemon zest brings a refreshing acidity that balances the sweetness.

For an adventurous twist, experiment with swirls of fruit purees, such as blackberry, raspberry, or passion fruit, folded gently into the cheesecake batter before baking. This not only adds a beautiful aesthetic but also introduces exciting flavor contrasts.