Citrus Berry Burnt Cheesecake: The Ultimate Creamy, Crustless Dessert

Prepare to fall in love with the most captivating dessert of the season: the Citrus Berry Burnt Cheesecake. This isn’t your average cheesecake. Inspired by the famed Basque dessert, this recipe features a deliberately caramelized, “burnt” top that yields a rich, slightly bitter note, perfectly balancing the incredibly creamy, custard-like center. We elevate this classic with a bright burst of citrus zest and a vibrant swirl of mixed berries, creating a dessert that is both rustic and elegant, and astonishingly easy to make.

Forget everything you know about fussy water baths and worrying about cracks. This crustless cheesecake embraces imperfection. Its signature dark top and rustic, sunken appearance are signs of a job well done. If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that requires minimal effort for maximum impact, you’ve found it.

Why This Citrus Berry Burnt Cheesecake Will Be Your New Favorite

This recipe is more than just a dessert; it’s an experience. The magic lies in its delightful contrast of textures and flavors. The high-heat baking method creates a firm, caramelized exterior while protecting a soft, melt-in-your-mouth interior that’s unlike any other cheesecake you’ve tasted.

• Incredibly Creamy: The texture is the star here—light, airy, and luxuriously smooth, almost like a flan or custard.
• Perfectly Balanced Flavors: The rich tang of cream cheese is beautifully cut by bright notes from fresh lemon and orange zest, while a hidden layer of berries adds a sweet, jammy surprise.
• Stunningly Simple: With no crust to press and no water bath to fuss with, this is one of the easiest cheesecake recipes you’ll ever make.
• A Show-Stopping Centerpiece: The dramatic, dark top and rustic charm make this Citrus Berry Burnt Cheesecake a guaranteed showstopper for any occasion. For another unique cheesecake idea, you might love these Fruity Pebbles Cheesecake Tacos.

Essential Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity, which allows the quality of each ingredient to shine. Here’s what you’ll need to create this masterpiece.

For the Cheesecake Batter

• Cream Cheese: Use full-fat, block-style cream cheese, and make sure it’s at true room temperature to avoid lumps.
• Granulated Sugar: Provides the sweetness and helps the top caramelize beautifully.
• Large Eggs: Also at room temperature, they are essential for the cheesecake’s structure and custardy texture.
• Heavy Cream: Adds richness and contributes to the smooth, creamy consistency.
• All-Purpose Flour: Just a touch to give the cheesecake structure.
• Citrus Zest: A combination of fresh lemon and orange zest provides a vibrant, aromatic lift.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the other flavors in the batter.
• Salt: A pinch of salt balances the sweetness and tang.

For the Berry Swirl

• Mixed Berries: You can use fresh or frozen raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries. If using frozen, don’t thaw them first.
• Cornstarch: A little bit to thicken the berry juices as they bake, preventing a soggy cheesecake.

Step-by-Step Instructions for the Perfect Cheesecake

Achieving the perfect Citrus Berry Burnt Cheesecake is all about the method. Follow these simple steps for a flawless result every time.

1. Preheat and Prepare: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan, then line it with two overlapping sheets of parchment paper, creating a “sling” with crinkled edges extending about 2 inches above the rim of the pan. This gives the cheesecake its signature rustic look.
2. Mix the Batter: In a large bowl, beat the room temperature cream cheese and sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed until completely smooth and free of lumps. Scrape down the sides of the bowl. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. Incorporate Wet and Dry Ingredients: Stir in the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and citrus zests. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and salt, then gradually add it to the cream cheese mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Assemble the Cheesecake: Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan. In a separate bowl, toss the mixed berries with the cornstarch. Scatter the berries evenly over the batter in the pan. Gently pour the remaining batter over the berries.
5. Bake to Perfection: Bake for 55 to 65 minutes. The cheesecake should be deeply caramelized and almost “burnt” on top, risen like a souffle, and have a significant jiggle in the center. Don’t be afraid of the dark color—that’s where the flavor is!
6. Cool Completely: Let the cheesecake cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. It will sink in the middle as it cools; this is normal. Once cool, refrigerate it for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight, before serving. This step is crucial for the flavors to meld and the texture to set.

Pro Tips for a Flawless Finish

Want to ensure your Citrus Berry Burnt Cheesecake is absolutely perfect? Here are a few expert tips to guide you.

The Importance of Room Temperature Ingredients

I cannot stress this enough: your cream cheese and eggs must be at room temperature. Cold cream cheese will result in a lumpy batter no matter how much you beat it. Set them on your counter for at least 2 hours before you begin.

Don’t Fear the “Burnt” Top

The signature element of this cheesecake is its deeply browned, caramelized top. The high oven temperature is essential for this. Trust the process! It might look burnt, but this coloring provides a delicious, complex flavor that balances the sweet and tangy interior. If you enjoy savory caramelized flavors, you should try this amazing French Onion Soup Recipe.

Why the Jiggle is Key

When you pull the cheesecake from the oven, the center should still be quite wobbly. It will continue to cook and set as it cools. Over-baking is the enemy of a creamy cheesecake, so embrace the jiggle!

Patience is a Virtue

The overnight chill is not optional. It allows the cheesecake to fully set and the flavors to deepen. Slicing into it too early will result in a soupy texture. For another dessert that’s worth the wait, check out these No-Bake Christmas Oreo Lasagna treats.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This cheesecake is an excellent make-ahead dessert. Once fully cooled and set, it can be stored, covered, in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors actually get even better after a day or two. I do not recommend freezing this cheesecake, as it can alter the delicate, creamy texture.

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What is a burnt cheesecake?

A ‘burnt’ or Basque cheesecake is a crustless cheesecake baked at a high temperature to create a deeply caramelized, almost burnt, exterior while maintaining a soft, creamy, and slightly underdone custard-like center. The contrast in textures and flavors is what makes it unique.

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How do I get the ‘burnt’ top without actually burning the cheesecake?

The key is the high oven temperature (400°F / 200°C). This cooks the exterior quickly, creating that signature dark, caramelized crust. The sugars in the batter caramelize, which is different from burning. Trust the timing in the recipe; the top should be a very deep brown, but the inside will remain creamy.

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Can I use frozen berries for this recipe?

Yes, absolutely! Do not thaw the frozen berries before using them. Tossing them in cornstarch, as directed in the recipe, will help absorb extra moisture and prevent the cheesecake from becoming watery.

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Why did my burnt cheesecake crack?

Unlike traditional cheesecakes, cracks and imperfections are part of the rustic charm of a burnt cheesecake! It will also naturally sink in the middle as it cools. This is all normal and expected, so don’t worry if it’s not perfectly smooth on top.

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How should I store my Citrus Berry Burnt Cheesecake?

Store the cheesecake covered in the refrigerator. It will last for up to 5 days. It’s best served chilled, as this enhances its creamy texture.

Enjoy Your Masterpiece!

There you have it—a simple yet sophisticated Citrus Berry Burnt Cheesecake that is sure to impress. It’s the perfect dessert for any occasion, from casual gatherings to elegant dinners. Give it a try, and I promise you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to create such a stunning and delicious treat. Don’t forget to share your creations and save this recipe to Pinterest!

Citrus Berry Burnt Cheesecake Recipe

FL Recipes

Citrus Berry Burnt Cheesecake: The Ultimate Creamy, Crustless Dessert

Discover the best Citrus Berry Burnt Cheesecake! This easy, crustless recipe features a rich caramelized top and an unbelievably creamy, custard-like center swirled with bright citrus and sweet berries. A true showstopper dessert for any occasion.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Servings: 12 slices

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American, Spanish

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

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Cheesecake Batter

• 32 oz full-fat block cream cheese softened to room temperature
• 1.5 cups granulated sugar
• 5 large eggs at room temperature
• 1.5 cups heavy cream
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp lemon zest
• 1 tsp orange zest
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt

Berry Swirl

• 1.5 cups mixed berries fresh or frozen
• 1 tsp cornstarch

Equipment

• 1 9-inch Springform Pan
• 1 Electric Mixer
• 1 Parchment Paper

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan. Line it with two overlapping sheets of parchment paper, ensuring the paper extends 2 inches above the pan's rim.
2. In a large bowl, beat the room temperature cream cheese and sugar with an electric mixer until completely smooth.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the heavy cream, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and orange zest.
4. Whisk together the flour and salt, then add to the wet ingredients, mixing on low until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan. In a small bowl, toss the mixed berries with the cornstarch and scatter them over the batter.
6. Gently pour the remaining batter over the berries.
7. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes, until the top is deeply caramelized and the center has a distinct jiggle.
8. Let the cheesecake cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. It will deflate as it cools. Refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight before slicing and serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 450kcalProtein: 8gFat: 35gFiber: 1g

Notes

Room Temperature is Key: Ensure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature to prevent a lumpy batter.
Embrace the Jiggle: The center should be wobbly when removed from the oven; it will set as it cools.
Chill Thoroughly: The overnight chill is mandatory for the cheesecake to set properly and for the flavors to fully develop.

Keyword Basque Cheesecake,Berry Cheesecake,Burnt Cheesecake,Crustless Cheesecake

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