Ingredients
Cheesecake Ingredients
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Instructions
Step 1
Take the *cream cheese* out of the refrigerator in advance to allow it to become more pliable and smooth. For the cheesecake, use a high-quality cream cheese such as Philadelphia or any labeled as cream cheese, about 65-70% fat content. The quality and texture of the cheese will impact the final result. Mix the cheese with a spatula until it reaches a creamy consistency, which should take about 1 minute.
Step 2
Pour in the high-quality *heavy cream* (33% fat), then add the *powdered sugar* and *vanilla sugar*. Use a whisk to blend the mixture until smooth. It is essential to mix but not to beat it, as we don't want air bubbles in the cheese mixture.
Step 3
Add the eggs into the mixture, and again blend until you achieve a smooth, homogeneous consistency.
Step 4
Finally, incorporate the *flour* and *lemon juice*. Mix until the batter is silky. It should be quite liquid.
Step 5
For baking the cheesecake, use a springform pan with a diameter of no more than 16-18cm (6-7 inches). Cut a circle out of parchment paper and line the bottom and sides of the pan. The pan should be about 8 cm (3 inches) high, or you can extend it with parchment if necessary. Pour the cheese mixture into the pan and gently tap it on the counter to release any trapped air bubbles.
Step 6
Preheat your oven to 250°C (482°F) and bake the cheesecake for approximately 30 minutes, or until it reaches a golden-brown color. During baking, the cheesecake will rise and might crack at the edges, which is normal. Note that the cheesecake should jiggle slightly when it's fresh out of the oven.
Step 7
Let the cheesecake cool to room temperature on the counter. Remove the ring, seal it well, and place it in the refrigerator overnight to mature.
Step 8
Slice the cheesecake using a hot knife to ensure clean cuts. You can drizzle the dessert with melted chocolate, although it is delicious as is.
Servings
Now that your **Basque Cheesecake** is ready and chilled to perfection, it's time to contemplate serving ideas that elevate each slice from delightful to dazzling. Here are some suggestions to maximize the enjoyment:
**Keep it Simple**: There's a certain magic in enjoying the cheesecake in its purest form. The caramelized top and creamy, smooth texture are enough to entice any dessert lover. 🧁
**Add a Topping**: Consider drizzling your cheesecake with melted **dark chocolate** or a shimmering **berry coulis** for a sophisticated flair.🍓🍫
**Serve with Coffee**: The deep flavors of a freshly brewed cup of coffee perfectly match the creaminess of the Basque Cheesecake. It’s a marriage made in culinary heaven! ☕️
**Pair with Wine**: For adult indulgence, offer a glass of sweet dessert wine or a nice Moscato alongside to complement the rich flavors. 🍷
Equipment
Whether it's a hand mixer or stand mixer, ensure it's powerful enough to blend cream cheese smoothly without leaving lumps.
This pan is essential for easy removal of the cheesecake. Line it well with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
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A sturdy whisk will help you achieve a smooth cream cheese mixture without incorporating too much air.
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Ensure it can achieve a high temperature of 250°C for that perfect, signature caramelized top.
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Use it to line the springform pan adequately, allowing some paper to extend above the rim for easy lifting.
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Variations
Gluten-Free Version: To make this cheesecake gluten-free, simply swap the regular flour for a high-quality, gluten-free baking flour. Ensure the flour blend you choose does not affect the texture. 🥳
Vegan Variation: Transform this dessert into a vegan delight by using vegan cream cheese and replacing the eggs with a flaxseed mix (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg) for similar binding properties. Use coconut cream in place of heavy cream for a luscious alternative. 🌱🥥
Faq
- Why is my Basque Cheesecake cracking during baking?
Small cracks are normal, but if they are excessive, it might be due to overmixing the ingredients. Mixing more gently can help!
- How do I know when my cheesecake is done?
It should be golden-brown on top and jiggle slightly in the center. The high oven temperature will caramelize the top while keeping the inside creamy.
- Can I adjust the sugar level in this cheesecake?
Yes! Feel free to tweak the sweetness to your preference by adding less or more sugar. Just remember, the caramelized top adds a lot of flavor!
- How can I ensure a smooth texture?
Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. This helps it blend seamlessly with other ingredients.
- What are some tips for cutting the cheesecake neatly?
Use a hot, dry knife to get clean slices. Simply run your knife under hot water, then dry before slicing.
- Can I add flavors to the cheesecake mixture?
Certainly! You can experiment with citrus zests or a hint of your favorite liqueur for a unique twist on this classic.