This Burnt Basque Cheesecake in a loaf pan gives me everything I love about the traditional version but in a more manageable, easy-to-slice format. The creamy center, caramelized top, and rich flavor make it an irresistible dessert that feels both rustic and elegant.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
16 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup brown sugar, packed
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ cup all-purpose flour
Pinch of salt
Directions
I preheat my oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a 9x5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, letting the paper overhang the sides for easy removal.
In a large bowl, I beat the softened cream cheese until smooth using an electric mixer. I add the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and salt, mixing until well combined.
I pour in the heavy cream, add the eggs and vanilla extract, and mix until smooth.
I gradually add the flour, beating until it’s fully incorporated.
I pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
I bake for 45-50 minutes, until the top is deeply browned and the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
I let it cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
When ready to serve, I lift the cheesecake out using the parchment paper and slice into portions.
Servings and timing
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 8
Calories: 330 kcal per serving
Variations
I sometimes add a splash of espresso to the batter for a coffee-infused twist. A citrus version works beautifully by adding lemon or orange zest for a fresh note. For a chocolate variation, I stir in a few tablespoons of cocoa powder. I’ve also tried swirling in fruit preserves before baking for a fruity surprise in every slice.
Storage/reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, I wrap slices tightly and freeze them for up to 2 months. To serve from frozen, I thaw them in the fridge overnight. I don’t reheat this cheesecake, as it’s best served chilled.
FAQs
What makes a Basque cheesecake different from a regular cheesecake?
I notice that Basque cheesecake has no crust, is baked at a high temperature for a short time, and develops a dark, caramelized top while staying creamy inside.
Why use a loaf pan instead of a round pan?
I like using a loaf pan because it’s easier to slice into even portions and fits well in my fridge for storage.
Can I make this without flour?
Yes, I can skip the flour for a gluten-free version, though the texture will be slightly creamier.
How do I know when it’s done baking?
I look for a deeply browned top and a center that’s set but still has a slight jiggle when I move the pan.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
I can, but I find it changes the richness and creaminess, so I prefer using full-fat for the best texture.
Conclusion
This Burnt Basque Cheesecake in a loaf pan is my go-to when I want an impressive dessert without a lot of fuss. The combination of creamy texture, deep caramelized flavor, and easy slicing makes it a recipe I return to again and again. It’s the perfect dessert for when I want something rustic yet indulgent.
Recipe:

Burnt Basque Cheesecake in a Loaf Pan
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- Author: Cheryl
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich and creamy Basque-style cheesecake baked in a loaf pan, featuring a caramelized top, soft center, and deep flavor from a mix of granulated and brown sugar.
Ingredients
16 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup brown sugar, packed
3 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
¼ cup all-purpose flour
Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a 9x5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.
- In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add granulated sugar, brown sugar, and salt, and mix until combined.
- Pour in heavy cream, add eggs and vanilla, and mix until smooth.
- Gradually add flour and beat until incorporated.
- Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes until top is deeply browned and center is set but slightly jiggly.
- Cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Lift cheesecake out with parchment and slice before serving.
Notes
Add espresso for a coffee-flavored variation.
Use citrus zest for a fresh twist.
Stir in cocoa powder for a chocolate version.
Swirl in fruit preserves for a fruity variation.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Spanish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 135mg