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Basque Burnt Cheesecake: A Study in Contrasts

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This recipe for Basque Burnt Cheesecake results in a stunning dessert with a deeply caramelized crust and a rich, creamy, custardy interior. It’s surprisingly simple and baked at high heat.

Ingredients

Scale

Two pounds (907 grams) full-fat cream cheese, softened

One and a half cups (300 grams) granulated sugar

One teaspoon fine sea salt

Five large eggs, room temperature

Two cups (480 milliliters) heavy cream (double cream), room temperature

One teaspoon pure vanilla extract

One quarter cup (30 grams) all-purpose flour, sifted

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pan: Line a nine-inch springform pan with two sheets of parchment paper, ensuring it extends well above the rim. Preheat the oven to four hundred twenty-five Fahrenheit.

2. Cream the Base: Beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, and salt until the mixture is completely smooth and airy.

3. Incorporate Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, beating just until each yolk is fully integrated before adding the next. Avoid over-mixing at this stage.

4. Add Liquid and Flavor: Slowly stream in the heavy cream and vanilla extract, mixing on low speed until the batter is fluid and uniform.

5. Fold in Flour: Gently fold in the sifted flour using a rubber spatula until no streaks remain.

6. Transfer and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and transfer it to the hot oven.

7. Monitor the Burn: Bake for fifty-five to sixty-five minutes, until the top is deeply, uniformly browned and the center still has a distinct wobble.

8. Cooling and Setting: Allow the cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature, then chill for at least six hours before serving.

Notes

Use full-fat block cream cheese, not whipped or tub varieties.

Ensure all dairy ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth batter.

Do not be afraid of the deep brown, nearly black color on top; this is the goal.

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