If you love matcha and cheesecake, this Vanilla Matcha Basque Cheesecake is your dream come true! With a rich, caramelized top, a smooth vanilla layer, and a deeply flavorful matcha bottom, this double-layered dessert is a true fusion masterpiece. The vanilla wafer crust adds a delicate crunch, complementing the creamy textures beautifully. Whether you serve it fresh and custardy or chilled for a firmer bite, this cake is guaranteed to impress.
Unlike traditional Basque cheesecakes, this version includes an irresistible cookie crust and a vibrant matcha twist. The matcha brings an earthy balance to the sweet vanilla, making every bite delightfully complex. This cheesecake is easy to make yet sophisticated in flavor—perfect for a tea-time treat, a dinner party centerpiece, or a luxurious dessert indulgence at home.
Full Recipe:
For the Crust:
- 1 ¼ cups (130g) ground vanilla wafers
- 6 tbsp (85g) unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ tsp kosher salt
For the Cheesecake Batter:
- 16 oz (2 blocks) full-fat cream cheese, room temperature
- ½ cup (120g) granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp (16g) all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- 1 cup heavy cream
For the Matcha Layer:
- 12g matcha powder
- 2 tbsp heavy cream
Directions:
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Prepare the Oven and Pan:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C).
- Line a 6-inch round cake pan (3-inch deep) with 2 layers of parchment paper, extending 2 inches above the rim.
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Make the Crust:
- Using a food processor, blend vanilla wafers into fine crumbs.
- Mix in melted butter and salt until combined.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared cake pan.
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Prepare the Vanilla Cheesecake Filling:
- In a stand mixer with the paddle attachment, beat cream cheese and sugar on medium speed until smooth.
- Add vanilla extract and eggs one at a time, mixing well.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, salt, and ¼ cup heavy cream, stirring into a smooth paste. Gradually add the rest of the cream, whisking to combine.
- Mix this into the cheesecake batter until fully incorporated.
- Divide the batter evenly into two bowls.
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Prepare the Matcha Layer:
- In a small bowl, whisk matcha powder with 2 tbsp heavy cream until smooth.
- Mix this into one of the cheesecake batter bowls until fully combined.
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Assemble the Cheesecake:
- Pour the matcha cheesecake batter over the crust.
- Pipe or gently pour the vanilla cheesecake batter on top.
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Bake the Cheesecake:
- Place the cake pan on a baking sheet and bake for 35-40 minutes, until the top is browned but the center is still slightly jiggly.
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Cool and Serve:
- Let the cheesecake cool at room temperature in the pan.
- Serve at room temperature for a custard-like texture or refrigerate overnight for a firmer texture.
Prep Time: 30 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 5 hours 10 minutes
Calories: ~2291 kcal per cake | Servings: 1 (6-inch cake)
Vanilla Matcha Basque Cheesecake: A Fusion of Flavors and Textures
If you’re a fan of both creamy cheesecakes and the rich, earthy notes of matcha, this Vanilla Matcha Basque Cheesecake is a dessert you simply must try. This recipe takes the classic Basque burnt cheesecake, known for its caramelized exterior and silky smooth interior, and elevates it with the addition of matcha and a vanilla wafer crust. The result? A stunningly layered, flavor-packed dessert that looks as elegant as it tastes.
This cheesecake is perfect for those who enjoy Japanese-inspired desserts or anyone looking to add a unique twist to a classic treat. The fusion of flavors is a match made in heaven—the slight bitterness of matcha balances beautifully with the creamy sweetness of the vanilla layer. The contrast between the deep green and golden brown hues also makes it visually stunning, making it a true showstopper for special occasions or casual indulgence.
What is Basque Cheesecake?
Basque cheesecake originates from San Sebastián, Spain, and differs from traditional American cheesecake in several key ways. While American cheesecakes typically have a dense, uniform texture and are baked in a water bath, Basque cheesecakes are baked at high temperatures, creating a beautifully caramelized, almost burnt top while maintaining a creamy, custard-like center.
Unlike the classic Basque cheesecake, which is typically made without a crust, this Vanilla Matcha Basque Cheesecake includes a delightful vanilla wafer base. The cookie crust adds a subtle crunch, providing a delicious contrast to the smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture of the cheesecake.
The Unique Combination of Vanilla and Matcha
One of the standout features of this cheesecake is its dual-layer composition. The bottom layer is infused with matcha, a finely ground green tea powder that boasts a deep, earthy flavor with slightly bitter undertones. This is balanced by the upper layer of vanilla cheesecake, which adds a touch of warm sweetness. Together, they create a perfectly balanced bite—creamy, rich, slightly bitter, and delicately sweet.
Matcha has been growing in popularity worldwide, not only for its distinctive taste but also for its numerous health benefits. It’s packed with antioxidants, promotes relaxation while enhancing focus, and even boosts metabolism. Incorporating matcha into desserts allows you to enjoy these benefits while indulging in a treat that feels light yet satisfying.
Meanwhile, vanilla is a timeless ingredient known for enhancing the flavors of desserts. It complements the matcha beautifully, rounding out the boldness of the green tea with its sweet and aromatic notes. When combined in this cheesecake, vanilla and matcha create a sophisticated and well-balanced flavor profile.
Why You’ll Love This Cheesecake
There are plenty of reasons why this Vanilla Matcha Basque Cheesecake will become a favorite:
- A Beautiful Layered Effect: The contrast between the deep green matcha layer and the creamy vanilla layer makes for a visually striking dessert. It’s guaranteed to impress guests or look stunning in photos.
- A Fusion of Cultures: This cheesecake takes inspiration from both Spanish Basque cheesecakes and Japanese matcha desserts, creating a fusion that is both unique and delicious.
- Rich Yet Light Texture: Unlike traditional dense cheesecakes, Basque cheesecake has a silky, almost soufflé-like consistency with a beautifully caramelized top. It feels indulgent without being overly heavy.
- No Water Bath Required: Many cheesecakes require a bain-marie (water bath) to prevent cracking, but Basque cheesecakes are intentionally rustic. The high baking temperature allows the cake to rise, fall, and develop natural cracks and ridges.
- Customizable to Taste: If you prefer a more intense matcha flavor, you can easily adjust the amount of matcha powder used. Likewise, you can swap the vanilla wafer crust for graham crackers or even Oreo crumbs for a different flavor twist.
How This Cheesecake Differs from Traditional Cheesecake
Basque cheesecake is often described as an “imperfectly perfect” dessert because of its cracked, caramelized top and creamy, almost gooey interior. This unique texture sets it apart from American cheesecakes, which are often baked at lower temperatures for a more uniform consistency.
Here’s how Basque cheesecake differs from traditional cheesecake:
- No water bath is required. Instead of slow, gentle baking, Basque cheesecake is baked at a high temperature (425°F/218°C) to achieve a deep golden-brown, slightly burnt top.
- No worrying about cracks! Unlike New York-style cheesecake, which requires careful handling to avoid cracks, Basque cheesecake is meant to have an uneven, rustic appearance.
- It’s lighter and airier. Traditional cheesecakes are dense, but Basque cheesecake has a silky-smooth, almost molten-like texture in the center.
With the addition of matcha and a vanilla wafer crust, this recipe takes the classic Basque cheesecake to another level by adding more depth of flavor and an extra layer of texture.
Tips for the Perfect Vanilla Matcha Basque Cheesecake
While this cheesecake is relatively simple to make, a few tips will ensure that your Vanilla Matcha Basque Cheesecake turns out flawless:
- Use room temperature ingredients. This ensures a smooth, lump-free batter and helps the cheesecake bake evenly. Cold ingredients can result in an uneven texture.
- Double-line the cake pan with parchment paper. Since Basque cheesecake rises significantly in the oven, it’s essential to use two sheets of parchment paper, extending past the edges of the pan, to prevent overflow.
- Monitor the baking time. Every oven is different, so start checking your cheesecake at the 35-minute mark. The top should be deeply golden brown, but the center should still have a slight jiggle when gently shaken.
- Let it cool completely. Basque cheesecake continues to set as it cools. For a softer, custard-like texture, serve it at room temperature. If you prefer a firmer cheesecake, chill it overnight before slicing.
- Adjust the matcha level to your preference. If you love bold matcha flavor, increase the matcha powder slightly. If you prefer a more subtle matcha taste, reduce the amount used.
Serving Suggestions and Storage
This cheesecake is incredibly versatile and can be served in different ways:
- Warm and creamy: Let it sit at room temperature after baking for a soft, custard-like texture.
- Chilled and firm: Refrigerate overnight for a more structured cheesecake that’s easier to slice.
- With toppings: Serve with fresh berries, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a drizzle of white chocolate for an extra touch of sweetness.
To store, keep the cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze slices for longer storage, though the texture may change slightly when thawed.
Conclusion
The Vanilla Matcha Basque Cheesecake is the perfect blend of tradition and innovation, combining Japanese matcha, classic vanilla cheesecake, and the rustic charm of Basque burnt cheesecake. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying your hand at cheesecake for the first time, this recipe is surprisingly easy to master, yet incredibly sophisticated in flavor and presentation.
From its caramelized top and creamy interior to its rich matcha undertones and buttery vanilla wafer crust, this cheesecake delivers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s an ideal dessert for matcha lovers, cheesecake enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a unique, crowd-pleasing treat.