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+ servings
A whole San Sebastian Cheesecake with a golden-brown top and a visible slice removed, showing its creamy interior.

San Sebastian Cheesecake

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Chill time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 50 minutes
San Sebastian Cheesecake, also known as Basque burnt cheesecake, features a caramelized top and creamy center. Made with cream cheese, heavy cream, and vanilla, this rustic Spanish dessert is simple yet indulgent.
12 Servings

Ingredients

  • 600 g full-fat cream cheese room temperature
  • 200 g granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs room temperature
  • 300 ml heavy cream double cream
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 30 g cornstarch

Instructions
 

Prepare the Baking Tin

  1. Line a round baking tin with parchment paper, ensuring there is at least a 2-inch overhang above the rim. This will help achieve the rustic look characteristic of San Sebastian Cheesecake.

Preheat the Oven

  1. Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F).

Beat the Cream Cheese

  1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese using a hand or stand mixer until smooth and lump-free.

Incorporate the Sugar

  1. Sift the granulated sugar into the cream cheese, then beat for approximately 3 minutes until the mixture is well-blended and creamy.

Add the Eggs

  1. Crack the eggs in one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition to ensure complete incorporation.

Mix in the Heavy Cream and Vanilla

  1. Pour in the heavy cream and vanilla extract, and continue mixing until the batter is smooth and silky.

Add the Cornstarch

  1. Sift the cornstarch into the mixture and stir until fully combined. Use a spatula to scrape the sides of the bowl and ensure the batter is homogeneous.

Transfer to the Baking Tin

  1. Pour the cheesecake batter into the prepared tin and tap it gently on a flat surface to release any trapped air bubbles.

Bake

  1. Place the tin in the preheated oven and bake for 30–40 minutes. The top should develop a deep caramelized color, and the center will remain slightly jiggly. This is intentional, as the cheesecake will set while cooling.

Cool and Chill

  1. Remove the cheesecake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the tin. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to achieve the desired texture.

Notes

To make this recipe gluten-free, replace the cornstarch with an equal amount of gluten-free cornstarch or arrowroot powder. Ensure all other ingredients, such as vanilla extract, are certified gluten-free.
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