Learn how to make Burnt Basque Cheesecake Loaf — simple, stunning, and free. A creamy, rustic dessert from Recipench.
There’s something magical about biting through a deeply caramelized, rustic top into a silky, custard‑like center. That’s precisely what makes the Burnt Basque Cheesecake Loaf such a standout dessert. At Recipench, we believe in free, elegant recipes that even beginners can master. Bake this in a loaf pan, and you get perfect slices every time—ideal for family dinners, special occasions, or just treating yourself to a little slice of luxury.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon all‑purpose flour
Optional substitutions / notes:
- Use gluten‑free flour to make it gluten‑free
- Use full‑fat cream cheese (versus low-fat) for better texture
- Add citrus zest (lemon/orange) for brightness
Instructions / Method
1. Preheat & Pan Prep
- Preheat your oven to 400 °F (200 °C).
- Line a loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.
2. Mix the Batter
- Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and free of lumps.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing fully after each.
- Pour in heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt; mix until silky.
- Sift in flour and fold gently until just combined.
3. Bake & Cool
- Pour batter into prepared pan; tap to release air bubbles.
- Bake 40–45 minutes until the top is deeply golden and center still jiggles slightly.
- Cool completely in the pan, then refrigerate ≥ 4 hours (preferably overnight).
4. Slice & Serve
- Use a hot knife (dip in hot water) for clean slices.
- Serve at room temperature or slightly chilled.
Tips & Variations
Don’t Overbake
Watch for a slight wobble in the center—residual heat will finish setting.
Chill Time is Crucial
Chilling overnight improves texture and makes clean slicing easier.
Flavor Twists
- Stir in lemon or orange zest
- Carefully swirl in melted chocolate or berry purée
Substitutions & Dietary Versions
- Use gluten-free flour
- Substitute with full-fat dairy alternatives (test ratios)
Place Image 3 (With Berries) near garnishing / variation tips
Nutritional Info / Ingredient Spotlight
Ingredient Spotlight: Cream Cheese & Texture
Cream cheese provides the fat, richness, and smooth emulsification necessary for that custard‑like interior. Its tang balances the sweet, and it’s crucial to use it softened to avoid lumps.
Nutrition Estimate (per slice)
- Calories: ~ 310
- Fat: ~ 26 g
- Protein: ~ 5 g
- Carbs: ~ 15 g
- Sugar: ~ 14 g
FAQ
Why does Basque cheesecake have a “burnt” top?
The high temperature caramelizes the sugars, creating a deep golden crust while leaving the interior soft and creamy.
What if my center is too runny or too firm?
If too runny, you may have underbaked—extend baking time slightly next time. If too firm, reduce baking time or check earlier.
Can I use low-fat or non-dairy alternatives?
You can try, but results may suffer—texture can become grainy or lacking in richness.
Can I make this ahead or freeze it?
Yes—chilling overnight improves flavor. Freezing is not recommended (texture degrades).
Why did my cheesecake crack or deflate?
A slight collapse is normal. Avoid overfilling or overmixing, and cool gradually to minimize large cracks.
Conclusion & Call to Action
This Burnt Basque Cheesecake Loaf is proof that breathtaking desserts don’t have to be complicated. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you can create something impressive and delicious.
If you try it, leave a comment with your results, share this post on Pinterest or Facebook, and don’t forget to tag Recipench so we can see—and share—your version. Explore more in our Dessert category for more free, creative treats.