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A close-up of a slice of San Sebastian Cheesecake with a golden burnt top, showcasing its creamy texture

San Sebastian Cheesecake (Burnt Basque Cheesecake)

A crustless, caramelized cheesecake with a rich, creamy center and a signature burnt top. Simple to make, no water bath needed—just mix, bake, and enjoy!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Chilling Time 4 hours
Total Time 5 hours
Course Dessert
Cuisine Spanish
Servings 8

Ingredients
  

Cheesecake Batter

  • 600 g full-fat cream cheese room temperature
  • 240 g granulated sugar
  • 40 g cornstarch or all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 200 ml heavy whipping cream
  • 100 g plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice optional
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 4 large eggs room temperature

Optional Toppings

  • Melted chocolate or caramel
  • Fresh berries or citrus zest
  • Honey drizzle

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Preheat the Oven

  • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Line an 8-inch round cake pan with parchment paper, ensuring extra overhang to lift the cheesecake out after baking.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Batter

  • Blend the Base Ingredients
  • In a large mixing bowl, beat together cream cheese, sugar, cornstarch, and salt for 2-4 minutes on low speed until smooth.
  • Do not overmix to avoid excess air bubbles.
  • Incorporate the Wet Ingredients
  • Gradually mix in half of the heavy cream, then add the rest.
  • Stir in Greek yogurt, vanilla extract, and lemon juice until well combined.
  • Add the Eggs
  • Add eggs one at a time, mixing at low speed after each addition.
  • The batter should be silky and smooth.
  • Strain for Extra Creaminess (Optional but Recommended)
  • Pour the batter through a fine sieve to remove lumps for an ultra-smooth texture.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake

  • Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
  • Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 40-50 minutes.
  • The cheesecake should have a deep golden-brown top while the center remains slightly wobbly.
  • If the top isn’t browned enough, broil for 1-2 minutes while monitoring closely.

Step 4: Cool and Set

  • Let the cheesecake cool at room temperature for 1 hour.
  • Transfer to the refrigerator for at least 4-6 hours (overnight is best).

Serving Suggestions

  • Classic Style: Enjoy plain with its rich, caramelized top.
  • Chocolate Drizzle: Pour melted chocolate over the cheesecake for a decadent twist.
  • Fresh Fruit: Top with berries or a citrus zest garnish for freshness.
  • Caramel or Honey: Drizzle lightly for extra richness.

Tips for the Perfect San Sebastian Cheesecake

  • Use parchment paper – Ensures easy removal after baking.
  • Stick to high heat – The burnt top is a signature feature.
  • Do not overbeat – Too much air causes cracks.
  • Jiggly center is key – If it’s fully set, it may be overbaked.
  • San Sebastian Cheesecake is rich, creamy, and incredibly easy to make. Unlike traditional cheesecakes, this one requires no crust and no water bath—just mix, bake, and chill! Its burnt caramelized top enhances the flavor, making every bite irresistible.

Notes

If you’ve never baked a cheesecake before, this is the perfect beginner-friendly recipe. Try it today and let me know how it turns out!