Why make this recipe
San Sebastián Cheesecake, also known as Burnt Basque Cheesecake, is a dessert that is not just delicious but also easy to make. This cheesecake has a unique burnt top, which gives it a rich flavor. The creamy texture mixed with the slight bitterness of the burnt crust creates a wonderful combination that many people love. Making this cheesecake at home allows you to impress your friends and family with minimal effort!
How to make San Sebastián Cheesecake
Ingredients :
- 2 cups cream cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup flour
- Pinch of salt
Directions :
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a springform pan.
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
- Add sugar and mix well.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in the heavy cream and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until just combined.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared pan.
- Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the top is burnt and the center is slightly wobbly.
- Let it cool, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.
How to serve San Sebastián Cheesecake
Serve the San Sebastián Cheesecake chilled, straight from the fridge. You can slice it and enjoy it on its own or add some fresh fruit on the side for a refreshing touch. Whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce also makes a great addition!
How to store San Sebastián Cheesecake
To store the leftover cheesecake, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you want to store it longer, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to wrap it well to avoid freezer burn.
Tips to make San Sebastián Cheesecake
- Ensure that all your ingredients are at room temperature before you start mixing. This helps create a smoother batter.
- Do not overmix the batter once you add the flour. Mix just until the ingredients are combined to avoid a dense texture.
- Keep an eye on the cheesecake while it bakes. The top should be dark brown, but not burnt to ashes.
Variation
You can experiment with flavors by adding citrus zest like lemon or orange to the batter for a bright twist. Some also like to include a bit of cocoa powder for a chocolate variation.
FAQs
1. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Using low-fat cream cheese may change the texture of the cheesecake. It might not be as creamy, but you can still try it if you prefer a lighter option.
2. What if my cheesecake cracks?
Cracking can happen if the cheesecake cooks too long or if it is moved around too much while baking. To avoid this, bake at a lower temperature or let it cool slowly in the oven.
3. Can I make this cheesecake dairy-free?
Yes, you can use dairy-free cream cheese and heavy cream alternatives to make a dairy-free version of this cheesecake. Just ensure they are suitable for baking.

San Sebastián Cheesecake
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a springform pan.
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
- Add sugar and mix well.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in the heavy cream and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until just combined.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared pan.
- Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the top is burnt and the center is slightly wobbly.
- Let it cool, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.