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San Sebastián Cheesecake - A Decadent Basque Dessert

San Sebastián Cheesecake Recipe

Ouissam Recipes
San Sebastián cheesecake is a decadent Basque dessert with a burnt, caramelized top and a rich, creamy interior. Easy to make yet impressively delicious, it strikes the perfect balance between rustic charm and indulgent sweetness. This cheesecake is a perfect treat for any occasion, offering an irresistible texture and flavor that’s sure to wow your guests.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 55 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine Spain
Servings 8 people

Equipment

  • 20cm (8-inch) springform pan
  • Parchment paper
  • Stand mixer or hand mixer
  • Sifter
  • Offset spatula
  • Oven

Ingredients
  

  • 650 g Cream Cheese
  • 200 ml Liquid Cream
  • 120 g Sugar
  • 5 Eggs
  • 1 Vanilla Sachet
  • Lemon Peels A few
  • 2 tbsp Flour

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Line the Pan
    Start by lining a 20cm (8-inch) pan with two layers of parchment paper. Make sure the paper extends at least 5cm (2 inches) above the edge of the pan. This extra height ensures that the cheesecake has room to puff up while baking without any risk of overflow.
  • Step 2: Preheat the Oven
    Set your oven to 200°C (390°F) and preheat for at least 20 minutes. For even better results, aim for a 40-minute preheat. A well-preheated oven ensures your cheesecake gets that beautiful, scorched top.
  • Step 3: Whisk the Cream Cheese
    Place the cream cheese and sugar in the bowl of a stand mixer. Using a medium-low speed, whip them together until the sugar dissolves and the cream cheese becomes smooth and creamy.
  • Step 4: Blend in the Eggs
    Add the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. This step ensures a smooth batter and a silky texture for your cheesecake.
  • Step 5: Add the Cream and Vanilla
    Pour in the room-temperature cream, along with a splash of vanilla and a few strips of fresh lemon peel. Mix on low speed until the batter is smooth and silky. Scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl to ensure everything is well incorporated.
  • Step 6: Add the Flour
    Sift the flour into the batter to eliminate any lumps. Mix on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as you want a smooth, velvety batter.
  • Step 7: Pour and Bake
    Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with an offset spatula. Tap the pan gently on the counter to settle the batter and eliminate air bubbles. Bake for 45-55 minutes, until the top is a rich, dark brown, and the edges are firm, but the center still has a slight jiggle.
  • Step 8: Cool and Freeze
    Once baked, remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan at room temperature. This cooling process allows the cheesecake to deflate and settle. Place it in the freezer for at least six hours to fully set before serving.

Notes

  • For the best results, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing to create a smooth, lump-free batter.
  • The cheesecake will continue to set as it cools, so allow it to rest completely before removing it from the pan.
  • Monitor the baking time closely to achieve the signature caramelized top. If you desire a darker finish, briefly place the cheesecake under the broiler.
  • Be mindful of the baking time; the center should still have a slight jiggle when done for that perfect creamy consistency.
  • For an even smoother texture, pass the batter through a fine sieve to remove any lumps before pouring it into the pan.
 
Keyword Creamy Cheesecake, San Sebastian Cheesecake, San Sebastian Cheesecake Recipe