Fig Basque Cheesecake

Fig Basque Cheesecake

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
Fig Basque Cheesecake
Fig Basque Cheesecake

🍰 How To Make Fig Basque Cheesecake

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. Add eggs:
    Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition until fully incorporated.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. Bake:
    Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is deeply golden brown and the center still jiggles slightly when shaken.
  7. Cool:
    Let the cheesecake cool in the pan for 1 hour, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight) before serving.
  8. 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

Difficulty:BeginnerPrep time: 15 minutesCook time: 50 minutesRest time: 5 minutesTotal time:1 hour 10 minutesServings:10 servingsCalories:380 kcal Best Season:Available

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

  1. Line pan with parchment and preheat oven.
  2. Beat cream cheese, sugar, eggs, cream, and flavorings.
  3. Swirl fig jam into batter and bake until golden and jiggly.
  4. 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.
Keywords:Fig Basque Cheesecake

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