Description
This small-batch Basque cheesecake is rich, creamy, and features a dramatic caramelized top. Baked in a loaf pan, it’s the perfect cozy dessert for two with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz (225 g) full-fat cream cheese, room temperature
- 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp (8 g) all-purpose flour
- Optional: 1/2 tsp lemon zest
- Optional: 1/2 tsp espresso powder
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line an 8.5 x 4.5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, letting the sides hang over for easy removal.
- Place cream cheese in a bowl and let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes, or microwave for 15 seconds to soften.
- Add sugar to the cream cheese and beat with an electric mixer or whisk until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition and scraping down the sides.
- Pour in heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until fully blended.
- Sift flour over the batter and fold gently with a rubber spatula until just combined.
- Pour batter into the lined loaf pan. Tap gently to release air bubbles and smooth the top.
- Bake on the center rack for 20-25 minutes, until the top is deep golden brown and the center jiggles.
- Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then lift out with parchment and cool to room temperature.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving for best texture, or serve slightly warm.
- Slice and serve, dusting with powdered sugar or topping with fresh berries if desired.
Notes
Use room temperature ingredients for a smooth batter. The high baking temperature creates the signature burnt top. For gluten-free, substitute flour with oat flour or a 1:1 gluten-free blend. Chill for best texture, but warm slices are extra creamy. Customize with citrus zest, chocolate, or spices.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: Spanish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 loaf (about 1 thick slice per person)
- Calories: 425
- Sugar: 20
- Sodium: 350
- Fat: 30
- Saturated Fat: 18
- Carbohydrates: 30
- Protein: 9
Keywords: Basque cheesecake, loaf pan cheesecake, small batch dessert, creamy cheesecake, easy cheesecake, dessert for two, Spanish cheesecake, burnt top cheesecake