Yuzu Basque Cheesecake with Vanilla Sugar

May 08, 2023

A Basque cheesecake is a special thing. Unlike a typical cheesecake, it is crust-less, and is intentionally burnt on the outside, with an irresistibly creamy center. While there are few greater joys than a classic cheesecake, this updated version features fragrant Yuzu Zest, and a sprinkling of Vanilla Sugar, for a springtime twist. Yuzu is a citrus fruit, with a flavor similar to lemon, grapefruit, and mandarin oranges. Needless to say, it’s a complex flavor that packs a punch! Serve on its own, or with a simple whipped cream.

Recipe by Micah Siva (@noshbymicah)

Serves: 10

Ingredients

32 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons Yuzu Zest
2 cups heavy whipping cream
3 tablespoons all purpose flour
5 large eggs
1 large egg yolk
3 tablespoons Vanilla Sugar

Directions

Preheat oven to 450°F. Line a 10-inch springform pan with two pieces of parchment paper so that they overlap in the middle, pressing and creasing to fit snugly in pan. Leave at least 2-inches of overhang around all the edges. Set aside.

In the bowl of a stand mixer, or in a large bowl with a hand mixer, combine the cream cheese, sugar, and yuzu zest until smooth and creamy, about 4 to 6 minutes, scraping the sides of the bowl, as needed.

In a separate bowl, whisk the heavy cream and flour until smooth. Add to the cream cheese mixture, mixing on low until incorporated.

Add the eggs and egg yolk, one at a time, beating between each addition.

Transfer the batter to the prepared pan and top with the vanilla sugar.

Bake until the top is a dark brown, and the center is still jiggly, about 35 to 40 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool to room temperature. Chill uncovered for at least 4 hours before serving.

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