Fig Basque Cheesecake is a decadent, rustic dessert that combines the creamy richness of a classic Basque cheesecake with the deep, honeyed sweetness of figs. Baked at a high temperature to achieve a beautifully caramelized top and a luxuriously soft center, this cheesecake is both simple and dramatic.
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🍇 Fig Basque Cheesecake Ingredients
- 1 pound (450 g) cream cheese, at room temperature
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 ¼ cups heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup fig jam or fig preserves (plus more for topping)
- Optional garnish: fresh figs, sliced

🍰 How To Make Fig Basque Cheesecake
- Prepare the pan:
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a 9-inch springform pan with two large sheets of parchment paper, letting the paper extend above the rim for a rustic edge. - Beat the cream cheese and sugar:
In a large bowl (or stand mixer), beat cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. - Add eggs:
Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition until fully incorporated. - Add cream and flavorings:
Pour in heavy cream, vanilla, and salt. Beat until smooth, then sift in the flour and mix gently until just combined. - Add the fig layer:
Pour half the batter into the prepared pan. Dollop fig jam over the surface, then swirl gently with a knife or skewer. Top with the remaining cheesecake batter and smooth the top. - Bake:
Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is deeply golden brown and the center still jiggles slightly when shaken. - Cool:
Let the cheesecake cool in the pan for 1 hour, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight) before serving. - Serve:
Top with extra fig jam or fresh sliced figs for a beautiful finish. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Recipe Tips
- Don’t overbake: The center should still wobble — it will firm up as it cools.
- Use high-quality figs: Fresh, ripe figs or a rich fig jam add a natural, jammy sweetness.
- No crust needed: Basque cheesecake is crustless by design — the parchment lining gives it its iconic rustic shape.
- Flavor twist: Add a tablespoon of brandy, amaretto, or orange zest for a sophisticated touch.
- Make ahead: This cheesecake tastes even better the next day once the flavors have developed.
🍧 What To Serve With Fig Basque Cheesecake?
Serve Fig Basque Cheesecake with a drizzle of honey, a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a handful of toasted almonds for crunch. It pairs beautifully with espresso, dessert wine or champagne for a special occasion.
🎚 How To Store Leftovers Fig Basque Cheesecake?
- Refrigerate: Store covered in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freeze: Freeze slices individually for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
FAQs
What is Basque cheesecake?
It’s a crustless cheesecake from Spain’s Basque region, known for its caramelized top, creamy center, and rich flavor.
Can I use fresh figs instead of fig jam?
Yes! Just cook fresh chopped figs with a little honey and lemon juice for 10 minutes to create a quick compote.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes replace the flour with cornstarch or omit it entirely for a slightly softer texture.
Why does it bake at a high temperature?
The high heat creates the signature burnt top and creamy, custard-like interior.
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📊 Fig Basque Cheesecake Nutrition Facts
Serving Size: 1 slice (1/10 of cake)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Cholesterol: 165mg
- Sodium: 230mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 27g
- Sugars: 23g
- Protein: 7g
Fig Basque Cheesecake
Description
This Fig Basque Cheesecake is a rich, crustless dessert with a caramelized top, creamy center, and luscious fig swirl — a rustic yet elegant twist on the Spanish classic.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Line pan with parchment and preheat oven.
- Beat cream cheese, sugar, eggs, cream, and flavorings.
- Swirl fig jam into batter and bake until golden and jiggly.
- Cool, chill, and top with more figs to serve.
Notes
- Don’t overbake: The center should still wobble — it will firm up as it cools.
Use high-quality figs: Fresh, ripe figs or a rich fig jam add a natural, jammy sweetness.
No crust needed: Basque cheesecake is crustless by design — the parchment lining gives it its iconic rustic shape.
Flavor twist: Add a tablespoon of brandy, amaretto, or orange zest for a sophisticated touch.
Make ahead: This cheesecake tastes even better the next day once the flavors have developed.
