Burnt Basque Loaf Cheesecake (Printable Version)

Creamy, caramelized Basque cheesecake adapted for a loaf pan - easy preparation with dramatic presentation.

# Ingredients:

→ Dairy

01 - 340g cream cheese, softened (full-fat)
02 - 180ml heavy cream

→ Dry Ingredients

03 - 100g granulated sugar
04 - 15g all-purpose flour
05 - 1/8 teaspoon salt

→ Eggs & Flavorings

06 - 2 large eggs, room temperature
07 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

# Steps:

01 - Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a loaf pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until very smooth and fluffy.
03 - Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
04 - Pour in the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat until fully incorporated and silky.
05 - Sift in the flour and fold gently until just combined.
06 - Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Tap lightly on the counter to release air bubbles.
07 - Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is deeply golden and the center still jiggles slightly.
08 - Allow the cheesecake to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight) before slicing.

# Notes:

01 - This Basque-style cheesecake is intentionally baked at high temperature to create its signature 'burnt' caramelized exterior while maintaining a creamy interior.
02 - The texture should be silky and slightly jiggly in the center when done - it will firm up during chilling.