Classic Basque Cheesecake

Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
• In a large glass bowl, cream together the cream cheese and sugar with an electric hand mixer on medium speed until the sugar completely dissolves, about 5 minutes. Use a rubber spatula to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
• Add the eggs, 1 at a time, mixing between each addition until fully incorporated. Add the egg yolks and beat to incorporate. Use a rubber spatula to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. The batter should be very smooth and homogenous.
• Slowly pour in the cream and mix until incorporated. Add the vanilla and salt and mix just to combine.
• Use a fine-mesh sieve to sift in the flour, then mix until just incorporated.
• Crumple 2 sheets of parchment paper, then unwrap and press into a 9-inch springform pan, stacking the top sheet perpendicular to the bottom sheet so the entire pan is covered (don’t worry about pressing the parchment flat; the ridges help create the signature texture around the edges of the cheesecake. Pour the batter into the pan and smooth the top.
• Bake the cheesecake until the top is a dark golden brown and the cake is slightly jiggly in the center, 50–60 minutes.
• Let cool at room temperature for 2 hours, then remove the springform and gently unwrap the parchment from the sides of the cheesecake.
• Slice and serve.
• Enjoy!