# Basque Cheesecake: The Simplest Cheesecake Ever
Basque cheesecake is famous for its smooth texture and sugary taste, enhanced by a caramelized top that beautifully contrasts its tender interior. This distinct dessert provides a wonderful mix of flavor and consistency, with slightly firmer edges leading to a molten, soft center that evokes the richest triple cream brie.
## The Charm of Basque Cheesecake
The attraction of Basque cheesecake is found in its extraordinary juxtaposition. The outer layer is soft yet solid, while the inside is silky smooth, delivering a lavish experience with every bite. The slightly charred top contributes a touch of bitterness, akin to crème brûlée, which elevates the overall flavor. This cheesecake is more than just a dessert; it’s a treat that many find difficult to resist.
## A Personal Revelation
I must confess, I once consumed an entire Basque cheesecake solo—well, nearly. My partner Mike managed to snag a small piece, but the remainder was entirely mine. This isn’t a singular occurrence; cheesecake is my greatest weakness. Whether dense like New York style or airy like Japanese cheesecake, I find it utterly addictive.
## What is Basque Cheesecake?
Emerging from San Sebastián in the 1970s, Basque cheesecake was developed when chefs experimented with Philadelphia cream cheese. The outcome was a crustless, caramelized cake that is both light and rich, bursting with cream cheese flavor. The restaurant La Viña is credited with its creation, and while numerous recipes claim to mimic it, I prefer a mix of different versions, including a Japanese influence that adds a lovely ooze in the center.
## Reasons to Try Basque Cheesecake
If you’re still undecided, here are appealing reasons to make Basque burnt cheesecake:
– You adore cheesecake.
– You’re looking for a cheesecake recipe that doesn’t need a springform pan or a water bath.
– It requires only four simple ingredients.
– You’ve seen it online and want to attempt it yourself.
– It can even be made in an air fryer!
## Ingredients for Basque Cheesecake
One reason I love this cheesecake is its simplicity. It takes just four ingredients:
1. **Cream Cheese**: Philadelphia cream cheese is the ideal choice. Make sure it’s at room temperature for a smooth batter.
2. **Sugar**: Just the right amount to offer a light sweetness. Granulated sugar works well, but brown sugar can add richness.
3. **Eggs**: Four large eggs are necessary to stabilize the cheesecake.
4. **Heavy Cream**: This ingredient adds to the cake’s richness and creaminess, with at least 36% milk fat.
## How to Prepare Basque Cheesecake
1. **Cream**: Beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth. Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for a lump-free mixture.
2. **Mix**: Add the eggs individually, mixing thoroughly without introducing too much air.
3. **Stir**: Gradually pour in the heavy cream and stir until fully combined.
4. **Bake**: Pour the batter into a parchment-lined pan and bake in a hot oven until the top is dark and burnt while the interior remains creamy.
## The Finest Cheesecake I’ve Ever Created
This Basque burnt cheesecake is undoubtedly the best cheesecake I’ve ever made. It’s remarkably easy, requiring no water baths or springform pans, and it’s forgiving—no cracks to be concerned about. Just ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the smoothest batter.
## FAQ About Basque Cheesecake
### Can I make this in the air fryer?
Yes, preheat your air fryer to 400°F and bake for 20-25 minutes, depending on your desired creaminess level.
### What type of pan is preferable?
A pan with tall sides is perfect for achieving that caramelized top. A 6-inch round pan works best, but loaf pans can also be used.
### How to line the pan?
Take a piece of parchment paper larger than your pan, scrunch it into a ball, then flatten it out for easy lining.
### Which cream cheese works best?
Philadelphia cream cheese is the classic choice and yields the finest results.
### Baking duration?
For a runny center, bake for 20 minutes; for a firmer texture, aim for 30 minutes.
### Do I need to chill it?
Allow it to cool completely in the pan before serving. For a chilled cheesecake, refrigerate after cooling.
### What to pair with Basque cheesecake?
It’s delightful on its own, but a spoonful of whipped cream or fresh berries can enhance it beautifully. Match it with a cup of black coffee for the ultimate experience.
## Recipe for Basque Cheesecake
### Ingredients
– 2 bricks (8 oz each) cream cheese, room temperature
– 3/4 cup gran