Chocolate San Sebastian Cheesecake Recipe | Burnt Basque-Style Cheesecake with Rich Cocoa Flavor

The Bold Beauty of Chocolate San Sebastian Cheesecake

Chocolate San Sebastian Cheesecake is a celebration of contrasts—its deeply caramelized, almost burnt top hides a silky, chocolate-laced center that melts in your mouth. With its rustic charm and dramatic appearance, this crustless cheesecake is as bold in flavor as it is in presentation.

Inspired by the iconic Basque dessert from Spain’s culinary capital, San Sebastián, this version adds a rich chocolate twist that elevates the original to new indulgent heights. The bittersweet depth of dark chocolate blends beautifully with the tang of cream cheese, creating a dessert that’s both comforting and sophisticated.

Whether you’re marking a special occasion or simply treating yourself on a cozy weekend, this cheesecake delivers drama and decadence in every bite. It’s easy to make, hard to mess up, and guaranteed to impress.

What Is a San Sebastian Cheesecake?

San Sebastian Cheesecake hails from La Viña, a beloved pintxo bar in San Sebastián, Spain. Unlike traditional cheesecakes, it’s baked at a high temperature to achieve a signature burnt top and creamy, custard-like center. There’s no crust—just pure, rich filling with a caramelized exterior that adds depth and complexity.

The chocolate version builds on this foundation by incorporating dark chocolate and cocoa powder, adding a luxurious twist to the original. The result is a dessert that’s both familiar and elevated: the tangy cream cheese base is balanced by the bittersweet richness of chocolate, creating a flavor profile that’s bold yet refined.

This cheesecake’s rustic look—cracked top, uneven edges, and deep color—is part of its charm. It’s a dessert that embraces imperfection and rewards you with unforgettable flavor.

Ingredient Overview

To make this chocolate masterpiece, you’ll need:

• Cream Cheese: Full-fat is essential for richness and structure.
• Heavy Cream: Adds silkiness and helps balance the tang of the cream cheese.
• Eggs: Provide structure and help create that custardy texture.
• Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens and balances the bitterness of the chocolate.
• Dark Chocolate: Choose 60–70% cocoa for depth and complexity.
• Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened, to intensify the chocolate flavor.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and rounds out the flavors.
• Flour or Cornstarch: Optional, but helps with stability if you prefer a firmer texture.

Tip: Always use room-temperature ingredients. This ensures a smoother batter and prevents lumps, especially when mixing cream cheese and eggs. Melt the chocolate gently and allow it to cool slightly before adding to the batter to avoid curdling.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Pan & Oven Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper, allowing it to rise above the edges for easy removal and a rustic look.
2. Melt the Chocolate In a saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt 6 oz (170 g) of dark chocolate. Stir in ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream until smooth. Let cool slightly.
3. Mix the Base In a large bowl, beat 2 packages (16 oz / 450 g) of full-fat cream cheese until smooth. Add ¾ cup (150 g) sugar and continue beating until fluffy.
4. Add Eggs & Vanilla Beat in 3 large eggs, one at a time, scraping down the sides of the bowl. Add 1 tsp vanilla extract.
5. Incorporate Chocolate & Cocoa Fold in the melted chocolate mixture and 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder. If using, add 1 tbsp flour or cornstarch.
6. Bake Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 25–30 minutes until the top is deeply browned and the center still jiggles slightly.
7. Cool & Chill Let the cheesecake cool in the pan, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Tip: Don’t panic if the top cracks or darkens—it’s part of the signature look and flavor!

Flavor Variations & Add-Ins

• Mocha Twist: Add 1 tsp espresso powder to the batter for a coffee-chocolate fusion.
• Salted Chocolate: Sprinkle sea salt flakes on top before baking for a sweet-savory contrast.
• Fruit Swirl: Swirl in raspberry puree for a tart burst of flavor.
• Nutty Delight: Add a spoonful of peanut butter or hazelnut spread to the batter.
• Sweeter Version: Use milk chocolate instead of dark for a creamier, sweeter profile.

These variations let you tailor the cheesecake to your taste or occasion—each one adds a new layer of indulgence.

Serving Suggestions

Chocolate San Sebastian Cheesecake is best served chilled or at room temperature, depending on your texture preference. For a classic pairing, add a dollop of whipped cream or a handful of fresh berries.

Want to elevate the presentation? Dust the top with cocoa powder or powdered sugar. A drizzle of chocolate ganache or caramel sauce adds extra richness. For a bold finish, serve with a shot of espresso or a glass of red wine.

Whether plated elegantly or sliced straight from the pan, this cheesecake is a showstopper that never fails to impress.