Description
This easy Loaf Pan Basque Cheesecake is a rustic, crustless cheesecake with a caramelized top and creamy, custard-like center — all baked right in a simple loaf pan. No water bath, no stress, just effortless elegance in every slice. Perfect for both everyday indulgence and dinner parties.
Ingredients
16 oz (2 bars) full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature
¾ cup granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for warmth and aroma)
½ teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour, sifted (or cornstarch for gluten-free)
Butter, for greasing the pan
Parchment paper, with overhang for easy lifting
Instructions
Prep the pan & oven: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the long sides. Butter the parchment lightly so it sticks.
Beat the base: In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and sugar together until completely smooth and fluffy.
Add eggs: Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each until combined. Avoid overmixing.
Blend in wet ingredients: Add heavy cream, vanilla, and salt. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Sift in flour: Gently fold in sifted flour with a spatula until fully incorporated.
Bake: Pour the batter into the pan (¾ full). Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is deep golden brown and slightly puffed while the center still jiggles slightly.
Cool & chill: Cool for 30 minutes at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours (or overnight) before slicing.
Serve: Lift out by parchment, slice thick pieces, and enjoy chilled or slightly softened.
Notes
For a darker top: Bake 3–5 minutes longer.
For flavor variations: Try espresso powder, citrus zest, or caramel swirls.
Storage: Refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Texture tip: For the creamiest result, let the cheesecake sit out 20 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Spanish-inspired (Basque)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 390 kcal
- Sugar: 23 g
- Sodium: 260 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 18 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 165 mg
Keywords: loaf pan basque cheesecake, easy cheesecake, crustless cheesecake, burnt basque cheesecake, rustic desserts
