• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
Gluten Free Tranquility
  • Recipes
  • Contact
  • About
  • Gluten Free Resources
  • Subscribe
menu icon
go to homepage
  • Recipes
  • Contact
  • About
  • Gluten Free Resources
  • Subscribe
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
  • subscribe
    search icon
    Homepage link
    • Recipes
    • Contact
    • About
    • Gluten Free Resources
    • Subscribe
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
  • ×

    Home » Holiday recipes » San Sebastian Cheesecake (Burnt Basque cheesecake)

    San Sebastian Cheesecake (Burnt Basque cheesecake)

    Published: Dec 12, 2022 by Amanda With Leave a Comment

    Jump to Recipe - Print Recipe

    San Sebastián cheesecake only requires a few ingredients and very little effort to make a beautiful rustic looking Spanish dessert. This burnt Basque cheesecake with a caramelized exterior and a light creamy center is one of the easiest cheesecakes to make!

    Basque cheesecake on brown parchment paper with a slice being lifted out.

    Cheesecake makes a regular appearance for dessert at my house as you may have already seen my Millionaires cheesecake, strawberry cheesecake, or vanilla cheesecake.

    When I'm looking for something a little simpler without the need to make a base or a slightly lighter cheesecake then this Basque cheesecake is my go-to dessert. It only requires 6 ingredients, is super simple to make, and gluten free!

    Jump to:
    • ⭐ Why we love this recipe
    • 💭 What is San Sebastian cheesecake
    • 📋 Ingredients notes
    • ⚡ Substitutions & Variations
    • 🥣 Step by Step Instructions
    • 💡 Recipe Tips
    • ❔ Recipe FAQs
    • More Cheesecake recipes
    • 📖 Recipe

    ⭐ Why we love this recipe

    • So easy to make - this really is the easiest cheesecake to make. A crustless Baked cheesecake without a water bath.
    • Make ahead - Can be made up to 5 days in advance and served straight from the fridge.
    • Gluten free - This recipe uses a little cornstarch instead of flour making this a delicious gluten free basque cheesecake.
    • Beautiful rustic dessert - This Spanish cheesecake is smooth and creamy on the inside with a golden caramelized exterior that gives it some rustic charm.

    💭 What is San Sebastian cheesecake

    San Sebastián cheesecake also known as basque cheesecake, Spanish cheesecake, or tarta de queso. Originates from the Basque region of Spain. Created by Chef Santiago Rivera at the La Viña restaurant has become a much-celebrated and loved dessert around the world.

    Basque cheesecake is very different from cheesecakes as we know it. Made crustless, baked at a high temperature without the need for a water bath. It has a beautiful golden burnt look on the outside but don't be fooled as it tastes amazing with the caramelized exterior and a light and creamy center.

    📋 Ingredients notes

    Labeled ingredients for Basque cheesecake.
    • Full fat cream cheese - Allow the cream cheese to come to room temperature. Always use full fat cream cheese as the higher fat content is required for a firm setting. I used Philadelphia full-fat cream cheese as this is my preferred brand of cream cheese.
    • Granulated sugar - I have tested this recipe with less sugar and it still tastes delicious. I feel that the recipe has the perfect amount of sugar for my taste but I have tested this recipe with slightly less sugar at 130 grams and is still delicious just with less sweetness.
    • Eggs - Use large eggs at room temperature.
    • Heavy cream - Also known as Double cream in the UK. Be sure to use cream with a high fat content.
    • Vanilla extract - Adds a subtle flavor to the cheesecake. Use good high-quality vanilla extract for best results.
    • Cornstarch - Known as Cornflour in the UK. See my cornflour v cornstarch. Using cornstarch makes this basque cheesecake gluten free. You can also use All purpose flour or gluten free all purpose flour if you don't have cornstarch available.

    See the recipe card below for ingredients measurements.

    ⚡ Substitutions & Variations

    As this recipe requires very few ingredients there isn't really much room for substitutions but I have included a couple of suggestions below.

    • Flour - Replace the cornstarch with all-purpose flour just be sure to use gluten free all purpose flour if you require the basque cheesecake to be gluten free.
    • Flavor options - I prefer the simplicity of the vanilla extract but if you are feeling a little adventurous you can substitute the vanilla extract for orange extract or lemon zest.
    • Serving suggestions - Although a slice of San Sebastian Cheesecake tastes amazing on its own it can be paired with your preferred sweet sauce, syrup, or topped with fresh fruit when serving.

    🥣 Step by Step Instructions

    Below is a brief step-by-step process with photos of how to make San Sebastian Cheesecake. See the recipe card below for more detailed recipe instructions.

    Cream cheese and sugar mixed together in a silver bowl.

    Step 1: In a large bowl or stand mixer beat the cream cheese for a few minutes until smooth. Sieve in the sugar to the cream cheese and beat for at least 3 minutes until the sugar has fully incorporated and lump-free.

    Egg added to the cream cheese mixture.

    Step 2: Add the eggs beating one at a time until fully incorporated. (Scrape the sides of the bowl with a spatula to be sure that all the mixture is evenly distributed).

    Scraping the cheesecake mixture from the side of the silver bowl with a spatula.

    Step 3: Mix in the cream and vanilla extract beating well. (Scrape the sides of the bowl with a spatula to be sure that all the mixture is evenly distributed).

    All ingredients fully combined in a silver bowl to make a smooth cheesecake filling.

    Step 4: Spoon in the cornstarch and beat until the cheesecake mixture is smooth and lump free. (Scrape the sides of the bowl with a spatula to be sure that all the mixture is evenly distributed).

    Round baking dish lined with parchment paper and filled with cheesecake mixture ready for the oven.

    Step 5: Transfer the mixture to the lined baking tin and spread evenly. Carefully tap the tin on a hard surface to help release any trapped air bubbles.

    Finished Basque cheesecake on brown parchment paper with a slice being removed.

    Step 6: Place in the oven for approx 30 - 40 minutes until the cake is caramelized brown color on top or may even be nearly black around the edges. It will be set around the edges but will still be wobbly in the middle. It is not undercooked as it will fully set while cooling.

    Notes: The cheesecake will rise when in the oven and start to deflate when cooling. This is what it's meant to do. The color and rustic look will add to its overall finished appearance.

    💡 Recipe Tips

    • Don't worry if the cheesecake slightly cracks while cooling it doesn't affect the taste of the finished dish.
    • Kitchen Scales - Using digital scales is recommended when baking. I always measure using scales and in grams as baking is a science. When baking it is essential to weigh out ingredients to get the best results! There is no need to purchase expensive digital scales and you can find them available cheaply online. (Although for small amounts I will use spoon measurements)
    • Oven Temperatures - Your oven temperature may be slightly different. As all ovens vary in temperature and the baking time is used as a guide. Some ovens run hotter than others. You could invest in an oven thermometer to be more accurate.

    A slice of Basque cheesecake on a white plate with the remaining cheesecake in the background.

    ❔ Recipe FAQs

    How to store Basque cheesecake

    Once cooled store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

    Can I make this recipe in advance?

    Yes, The beauty of Basque cheesecake is it is best made at least the day before serving and lasts up to 5 days in the fridge.

    Is Basque cheesecake gluten free?

    This Basque cheesecake is made gluten free by using cornstarch. If you require a gluten free Basque cheesecake always be sure to check what ingredients are used as some recipes include flour that is not gluten-free.

    More Cheesecake recipes

    • Millionaire's Cheesecake
    • No Bake Gluten Free Strawberry Cheesecake
    • Mini Egg Easter Cheesecake Bites
    • Gluten Free Vanilla Cheesecake - No Bake

    📖 Recipe

    Basque cheesecake on brown parchment paper with a slice being lifted out.

    San Sebastian Cheesecake (Burnt Basque cheesecake)

    San Sebastián cheesecake only requires a few ingredients and very little effort to make a beautiful rustic looking Spanish dessert. This burnt Basque cheesecake with a caramelized exterior and a light creamy center is one of the easiest cheesecakes to make!
    5 from 1 vote
    Print Pin Rate
    Course: Dessert
    Cuisine: Spanish
    Keyword: baked cheesecake, Basque cheesecake, gluten free, Spanish cheesecake
    Prep Time: 15 minutes
    Cook Time: 35 minutes
    Chill time: 2 hours
    Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
    Servings: 12 servings
    Calories: 374kcal

    Nutritional information is meant as a guideline and all information is approximate.

    Prevent your screen from going dark

    Equipment

    • 9 inch round baking tin I used a springform baking tin.
    • Whisk Electric or stand mixer
    • Parchment paper

    Ingredients

    Ingredients for San Sebastian cheesecake

    • 600 grams Full fat cream cheese (Room temperature) Always use full fat cream cheese as the higher fat content is required for a firm setting. I used Philadelphia full-fat cream cheese.
    • 200 grams Granulated sugar
    • 3 Large Eggs Room temperature
    • 300 ML Heavy cream AKA Double cream
    • 2 teaspoon Vanilla extract
    • 30 grams Cornstarch AKA Cornflour in the UK

    Instructions

    How to make San Sebastian Cheesecake

    • Line the baking tin with parchment paper. Press the parchment paper onto the bottom and sides of the tin with around at least 2 inches overhang at the top. Don't worry the paper doesn't have to be neatly wrapped as the rustic look with add to the finished cheesecake.
    • Preheat the oven to 220°C/425°F/Gas mark 7
    • In a large bowl or stand mixer beat the cream cheese for a few minutes until smooth.
    • Sieve in the sugar to the cream cheese and beat for at least 3 minutes until the sugar has fully incorporated and lump-free. (Scrape the sides of the bowl with a spatula to be sure that all the mixture is evenly distributed).
    • Add the eggs beating one at a time until fully incorporated. (Scrape the sides of the bowl with a spatula to be sure that all the mixture is evenly distributed).
    • Mix in the cream and vanilla extract beating well. (Scrape the sides of the bowl with a spatula to be sure that all the mixture is evenly distributed).
    • Spoon in the cornstarch and beat until the cheesecake mixture is smooth and lump free. (Scrape the sides of the bowl with a spatula to be sure that all the mixture is evenly distributed).
    • Transfer the mixture to the baking tin and spread evenly. Carefully tap the tin on a hard surface to help release any trapped air bubbles.
    • Place in the oven for approx 30 - 40 minutes until the cake is caramelized brown color on top or may even be nearly black around the edges. It will be set around the edges but will still be wobbly in the middle. It is not undercooked as it will fully set while cooling.
    • The cheesecake will rise when in the oven and start to deflate when cooling. This is what it's meant to do. The color and rustic look will add to its overall finished appearance.
    • Carefully remove the baking tin from the oven and leave it to fully cool in the tin. Once fully cooled place in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours preferably overnight to fully firm up.
    • Enjoy!

    Notes

    Chilling time: 
    For a traditional smooth, slightly runny gooey center serve after 2 hours of chill time. 
    For a firm texture serve after chilling for at least 12 hours. 
    • Don't worry if the cheesecake slightly cracks while cooling it doesn't affect the taste of the finished dish.
    Room temperature ingredients - Be sure to use room temperature eggs and cream cheese. Using cold cream cheese and not beating until light and fluffy may result in a grainy texture. 

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1Serving | Calories: 374kcal | Carbohydrates: 22.6g | Protein: 5.2g | Fat: 29.7g | Saturated Fat: 18.2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4.9g | Cholesterol: 97mg | Sodium: 175mg | Potassium: 84.7mg | Sugar: 18.7g

    Disclaimer

    Nutritional information is meant as a guideline and is always an approximate calculation. Recipes may include information of various products used. It is your responsibility to check that ingredients you use when making a recipe are gluten free.

    I hope you enjoyed this San Sebastián cheesecake recipe.

    I would love your feedback.  Please rate this recipe and leave a comment below. You can also tag me in any photos taken when trying this recipe over on my Instagram.

    More Gluten free Holiday recipes

    • Christmas Crunch Holiday Popcorn
    • Gluten Free Charcuterie Board
    • Gluten free Pumpkin Donuts
    • Gluten free Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread

    Reader Interactions

    Did you make this recipe? I would love to hear from you! Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




    Primary Sidebar

    Hi, I'm Amanda! I am passionate about creating gluten free versions of all the foods that I enjoy. I love sharing them with others looking for easy but delicious gluten free recipes.

    More about me →

    Popular Posts

    • Gluten Free Vanilla Cheesecake - No Bake
    • Gluten free Old School Sponge Cake
    • Sliced Potato Cottage Fries
    • Gluten Free Yorkshire Puddings
    • Gluten Free American Pancakes
    • What Chocolates are Gluten free?

    Valentine's Recipes

    • Chocolate Ganache Strawberry Tartlets
    • Heart Shaped Rice Krispie Valentine Treats
    • Gluten Free Chocolate Cupcakes
    • Gluten Free Mini Strawberry Tarts
    • Gluten free Jammy Dodgers
    • No Bake Gluten Free Strawberry Cheesecake

    Footer

    ↑ back to top

    About

    • About
    • Privacy Policy

    Contact

    • Sign Up! - For emails and updates
    • Contact

    As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

    Copyright © 2023 Gluten free Tranquility

    We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies.
    Do not sell my personal information.
    Cookie SettingsAccept
    Manage consent

    Privacy Overview

    This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience.
    Necessary
    Always Enabled
    Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously.
    CookieDurationDescription
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-analytics11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics".
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-functional11 monthsThe cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional".
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-necessary11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary".
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-others11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other.
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-performance11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance".
    viewed_cookie_policy11 monthsThe cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. It does not store any personal data.
    Functional
    Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features.
    Performance
    Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.
    Analytics
    Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.
    Advertisement
    Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads.
    Others
    Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet.
    SAVE & ACCEPT