Known as the “burnt cheesecake,” the San Sebastián cheesecake is a Spanish masterpiece that has won over the world with its incredibly creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture and unforgettable rich flavor. This dessert is more than just a recipe; it’s a unique experience that takes you on a journey to the famed “La Viña” restaurant where it was born.
The secret to this masterpiece lies in the quality of its ingredients. To achieve that perfect texture and authentic taste, our recipe relies on Almanfoush Cream Cheese, which guarantees a spectacular result thanks to its high quality and rich, natural flavor, making it the perfect choice for a luxurious dessert fit for any occasion.
Ingredients (Highlighting Almanfoush Quality):
Almanfoush Cream Cheese (or full-fat white cheese): 400g. Must be at room temperature to ensure a smooth, lump-free mixture. (This is the secret to its rich texture).
Heavy Whipping Cream: 200ml.
Sugar: 100g (or to taste).
Eggs: 2 large.
Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon.
For the Crust (Optional):
Crushed Digestive Biscuits: 150g.
Melted Butter: 50g.
Instructions: Perfection Starts with Quality
Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a 20cm (8-inch) cheesecake pan with two overlapping sheets of parchment paper, allowing the edges to hang over the sides. This creates the dessert’s signature rustic look.
Prepare the Crust (If using): Mix the crushed biscuits with the melted butter, press the mixture into the bottom of the pan, and refrigerate. (Note: The original recipe is crustless; you can omit this for a more authentic experience).
Prepare the Creamy Almanfoush Filling:
In a large bowl, combine the Almanfoush cream cheese and sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat until the mixture is completely smooth.
Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Pour in the heavy cream and vanilla, and continue to beat until the batter is smooth and liquid.
The Perfect Bake for the “Burnt” Top:
Pour the creamy cheese batter into the prepared pan.
Bake for 30-40 minutes. You’ll notice the top turning a deep golden brown (“burnt”), while the center remains slightly wobbly when you move the pan. Don’t worry—this is the secret to its magical creamy texture!
Cooling and Serving:
Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature.
Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to set completely.
To serve, grab the parchment paper edges to lift the cheesecake from the pan. Serve it in its beautiful rustic form, or garnish with chocolate sauce or fresh berries.
Why is Almanfoush Cheese the Best Choice?
Using Almanfoush’s natural cheese ensures a dessert with a rich, deep flavor, free from any artificial taste. It gives the cheesecake a unique creamy texture because it is preservative-free and made from high-quality fresh milk, making every bite an unforgettable experience.