Description
This decadent Chocolate Basque Cheesecake features a perfectly burnt top with a luscious, gooey chocolate interior. Made with cream cheese, dark chocolate, and a hint of cocoa, this no-fuss cheesecake is baked at high heat to develop a caramelized crust while remaining soft and creamy inside. Ideal for chocolate lovers seeking a rich yet light dessert that pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or a simple fresh garnish.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheesecake Batter
- 13.5 oz cream cheese
- 1/2 cup castor sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla paste or extract
- 3 eggs
- 5.3 oz dark chocolate, melted
- 1 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 5/6 cup heavy whipping cream
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 445℉ (230℃). Line a 6-inch (15 cm) round cake pan with parchment paper, ensuring the paper extends at least 2 inches (5 cm) above the pan edges to support the batter.
- Soften Cream Cheese: Place cream cheese into a large bowl. Use a spatula to mix it until smooth and spreadable, removing any lumps for an even batter.
- Add Sugar and Vanilla: Mix in castor sugar and vanilla paste or extract. Whisk continuously until the mixture becomes smooth and well combined.
- Incorporate Eggs: Add eggs one at a time, whisking thoroughly after each addition to achieve a homogenized, smooth batter.
- Add Melted Chocolate: Gently whisk in the melted dark chocolate, being careful to fold it in evenly without deflating the batter.
- Sift Dry Ingredients: Sift together cocoa powder and cornstarch, then whisk them into the batter just until incorporated, avoiding overmixing.
- Incorporate Cream: Add the heavy whipping cream and whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined, forming a fluid batter.
- Pour Batter and Remove Air Bubbles: Transfer the batter into the prepared pan. If lumps are present, strain the batter for smoothness. Tap the pan against the countertop a few times to release any trapped air bubbles.
- Bake Cheesecake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and immediately lower the temperature to 430℉ (220℃). Bake for approximately 25 minutes until the top is golden brown and the center remains jiggly.
- Cool and Refrigerate: Remove the cheesecake and let cool in the pan on a wire rack until it reaches room temperature. Then refrigerate uncovered for at least 4 hours to allow it to set fully.
- Serve: Remove cheesecake from pan by peeling away the parchment paper carefully. For a gooey texture, serve at room temperature, allowing it to stand for 30 minutes before slicing. For a firmer texture, serve chilled.
Notes
- Line the pan with high parchment edges to prevent batter overflow and to create a rustic burnt crust.
- Use good quality dark chocolate for the best flavor and smooth texture.
- Do not overbake; the center should remain jiggly to retain creaminess.
- Allow chilling time for the cheesecake to firm up and develop flavor.
- Serving at room temperature enhances the gooey texture; refrigerate for a more sliceable dessert.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Western, Fusion
Keywords: Chocolate Basque Cheesecake, Burnt Cheesecake, Cream Cheese Dessert, No Crack Cheesecake, Gooey Chocolate Cake
