| Rich Basque Cheesecake with Caramelized Top |
This incredibly creamy Basque cheesecake is renowned for its cara... |
cheesecake, dessert, pastry, European cuisine, Spanish dessert, baking, vegetarian, gluten-free option |
{"title":"Rich Basque Cheesecake with Caramelized Top","description":"This incredibly creamy Basque cheesecake is renowned for its caramelized top and deep flavors that make a traditional crust unnecessary. Originating from the La Vi\u00f1a restaurant in the Basque region of Spain, this dessert is the epitome of indulgence and simplicity. It is exceptionally easy to prepare and only requires a handful of ingredients.","short_description":"A luscious Basque cheesecake with a delicious caramelized top, simple to bake and perfect for any occasion.","full_ingredient_list":["2 pounds cream cheese, at room temperature","1 1\/4 to 1 1\/2 cups sugar","2 cups heavy cream, divided","6 large eggs","1 teaspoon vanilla extract","1\/3 cup all-purpose flour","1\/2 teaspoon fine salt"],"components":[{"name":"Basque Cheesecake","ingredients":[{"name":"cream cheese","quantity":"2 pounds","preparation_notes":"at room temperature","substitutions":[]},{"name":"sugar","quantity":"1 1\/4 to 1 1\/2 cups","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"heavy cream","quantity":"2 cups, divided","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"eggs","quantity":"6 large","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"vanilla extract","quantity":"1 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]},{"name":"all-purpose flour","quantity":"1\/3 cup","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":["gluten-free baking flour"]},{"name":"fine salt","quantity":"1\/2 teaspoon","preparation_notes":"","substitutions":[]}],"tools_and_equipment":["12-cup food processor or mixer","parchment paper","9-inch springform pan"],"instructions":[{"step_number":1,"description":"Place a rack in the middle of the oven, ensuring plenty of space above. Preheat oven to 400\u00b0F.","tips":""},{"step_number":2,"description":"Using two large sheets of parchment paper, line a 9-inch springform pan, allowing the paper to rise at least 2 inches above the sides.","tips":""},{"step_number":3,"description":"In a food processor or mixer, combine cream cheese, sugar, and 1\/2 cup of heavy cream. Mix until smooth, about 2 minutes.","tips":"Scrape down the bowl as needed."},{"step_number":4,"description":"Crack the eggs into a measuring cup, then add them to the mixture and blend until smooth. Pause to scrape down the sides if necessary.","tips":""},{"step_number":5,"description":"Add remaining cream, vanilla, and salt to the mixture. Blend until combined, about 30 seconds.","tips":""},{"step_number":6,"description":"Whisk the flour into 1 cup of this mixture until smooth, then return to the processor and blend briefly.","tips":""},{"step_number":7,"description":"Pour batter into the prepared pan, smooth the top by jigging slightly, and crease parchment folds gently against the pan.","tips":""},{"step_number":8,"description":"Bake for 60 to 65 minutes until the top is deeply golden and the center remains very jiggly.","tips":"The cheesecake will deflate and darken further as it cools."},{"step_number":9,"description":"Cool on a rack for about 1 hour before serving or refrigerating.","tips":""}]}],"prep_time":"30 minutes","cook_time":"60 minutes","total_time":"1 hour 30 minutes","servings":"12 slices","tags":["cheesecake","dessert","pastry","European cuisine","Spanish dessert","baking","vegetarian","gluten-free option"],"notes":"Ensure cream cheese is softened properly for easier mixing. The absence of crust makes it gluten-free friendly; make sure to confirm with gluten-free flour if necessary.","background":"Basque cheesecake originated from the region of Basque Country in Spain. Its rich, custard-like texture paired with a deeply caramelized top makes it unique, presenting flavors reminiscent of the traditional recipes from the La Vi\u00f1a restaurant.","nutrition":{"calories":"450","protein":"8g","fat":"37g","carbohydrates":"20g","fiber":"1g","sugar":"17g"},"serving_suggestions":"Serve with fresh strawberries or a glass of dry white wine for a sophisticated dessert experience.","storage":"Store leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.","dietary_info":["vegetarian","gluten-free option"],"cooking_tips":["Avoid over-mixing to prevent incorporating excess air into the batter.","Allow parchment paper for ease of removal."],"variations":["Try serving with a berry compote or chocolate drizzle."],"ingredient_spotlight":"Cream cheese is key, providing the creamy texture and body, so ensure it is at room temperature for best results.","flavor_profile":{"sweet":4,"savory":2,"sour":1,"bitter":1,"umami":2},"geographic_region":"Basque Country, Spain","seasonality":"Year-round","sustainability_score":{"score":70,"details":"Cream cheese and eggs have moderate impact; locally sourcable ingredients improve score."},"occasion":"Celebratory dinner, holiday dessert, potluck","skill_level":"Intermediate","cost_estimate":20,"recommended_pairings":["Dry white wine","Fresh strawberries"]} |
