Name: Strawberry Matcha Basque Cheesecake: A Creamy Delight
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 235 min
Ingredients: 8 oz Cream Cheese (For a lighter version, try Neufchâtel cheese.); 3 large Eggs (Substitute with flax eggs for a vegan option.); 3/4 cup Granulated Sugar (Coconut sugar can be used for a healthier alternative.); 2 tbsp Matcha Powder (Opt for culinary-grade matcha.); 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour (Gluten-free flour works for those avoiding gluten.); 1 cup Heavy Cream (Coconut cream makes for a delightful non-dairy substitution.); 1/4 tsp Salt (Balances the sweetness.); 1/2 cup Powdered Sugar (Provides a sweet finish to the strawberry topping.); 1/2 cup Mascarpone Cheese (Cream cheese can be a suitable substitute.); 2 tbsp Freeze-Dried Strawberry Powder (Blending fresh strawberries is a good alternative, be mindful of added moisture.)

As I whisked the vibrant green matcha powder into the creamy batter, a symphony of sweet strawberry scents began to fill my kitchen. This Strawberry Matcha Basque Cheesecake is my latest creation, marrying the earthiness of matcha with luscious, juicy strawberries for a dessert that feels both indulgent and sophisticated. The beauty of this Basque-style cheesecake lies in its delightful simplicity—there’s no crust to fuss with, making it a quick and rewarding treat for any occasion. You’ll find yourself drawn to its beautifully caramelized top and creamy, almost custardy center that’s lighter than traditional cheesecakes. Whether you’re aiming to impress guests or simply satisfy a sweet craving, this recipe is sure to become a go-to in your dessert repertoire. Ready to dive into a slice of this heavenly creation? Let’s get started!

Why is this cheesecake so special?

Luxurious flavor combination: The earthy matcha and sweet strawberries create an unforgettable taste experience.
Unique presentation: With its rustic, burnt top, this cheesecake stands out at any gathering.
Crustless convenience: Skip the fuss of a traditional crust for a simpler, yet equally delicious dessert.
Versatile options: Customize your cheesecake with different toppings or flavors like raspberry or mango puree.
Quick to make: This recipe saves time while delivering indulgence, making it perfect for last-minute cravings. Ready to impress your guests? You might also enjoy our Pumpkin Cheesecake Muffins for a delightful twist!

Strawberry Matcha Basque Cheesecake Ingredients

Get ready to create a dessert masterpiece!

For the Cheesecake Base

Cream Cheese – Provides the luxuriously creamy texture that defines this cheesecake; for a lighter version, try Neufchâtel cheese.
Eggs – Acts as a binding agent, helping to achieve that wonderfully custardy center; substitute with flax eggs for a vegan option.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cheesecake mixture to perfection; coconut sugar can be used for a healthier alternative.
Matcha Powder – Infuses the cake with a unique earthy flavor and a vibrant green hue; opt for culinary-grade matcha to keep costs down.
All-Purpose Flour – Stabilizes the cheesecake during baking; gluten-free flour works for those avoiding gluten.
Heavy Cream – Enhances the creaminess and smooth texture; coconut cream makes for a delightful non-dairy substitution.
Salt – Balances the sweetness while heightening the overall flavor.

For the Strawberry Topping

Powdered Sugar – Provides a sweet finish to the strawberry topping with a fine texture.
Mascarpone Cheese – Enriches the strawberry topping with its creamy goodness; cream cheese can be a suitable substitute.
Freeze-Dried Strawberry Powder – Intensifies the strawberry flavor in the topping; blending fresh strawberries is a great alternative for a different texture, just be mindful of added moisture!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Strawberry Matcha Basque Cheesecake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 240°C (465°F). While it warms up, line a 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper, ensuring it fully covers the bottom and sides. This will prevent sticking and make it easier to remove your gorgeous Strawberry Matcha Basque Cheesecake once it’s baked.

Step 2: Blend the Batter
In a blender, combine the cream cheese, eggs, granulated sugar, matcha powder, all-purpose flour, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt. Blend this mixture on medium speed until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency, ensuring no lumps remain. This rich batter will be the heart of your cheesecake, so take the time to blend well.

Step 3: Strain & Pour
Once blended, pour the cheesecake batter through a fine sieve into the prepared cake pan. This crucial step ensures an ultra-smooth texture by removing any remaining lumps. Smooth out the top with a spatula, then place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is a deep golden brown, and the center has a slight wobble.

Step 4: Cool the Cheesecake
After baking, carefully remove the pan from the oven and let the Strawberry Matcha Basque Cheesecake cool in the pan at room temperature for about an hour. This cooling period allows the cheesecake to set properly. Once it’s cooled, cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or ideally overnight, to achieve that perfect custardy texture.

Step 5: Prepare the Strawberry Topping
In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and freeze-dried strawberry powder together until stiff peaks form. This fluffy topping is where the sweetness meets the vibrant strawberry flavor, beautifully complementing the earthy matcha. Take your time to whip it well, ensuring a light and airy texture.

Step 6: Assemble the Cheesecake
Once the cheesecake is thoroughly chilled, carefully spread the strawberry topping over the top, creating an even layer. This luscious layer adds a delightful contrast to the creamy cheesecake underneath. If desired, garnish with fresh strawberries or edible flowers for a stunning presentation. Return the assembled cheesecake to the refrigerator for another 2-3 hours before serving for best flavor and texture.

Make Ahead Options

These Strawberry Matcha Basque Cheesecake preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cheesecake base up to 24 hours in advance. After baking and cooling, wrap it tightly and refrigerate to maintain its smooth, custardy texture. Additionally, the strawberry topping can be made 2-3 days ahead as well—just store it in an airtight container and keep it chilled until it’s time to assemble. When you’re ready to serve, simply spread the topping over the cheesecake and let it sit for another hour to soften before slicing. This way, you’ll enjoy the same rich and creamy flavors with minimal effort!

Expert Tips for Strawberry Matcha Basque Cheesecake

Blend Thoroughly: Mixing the batter well ensures a silky texture and prevents lumps. Use a blender to achieve the most velvety consistency for your cheesecake.
Watch the Bake Time: The cheesecake should be dark brown on top yet still slightly wobbly in the center when removed from the oven. This slight jiggle means a perfect custardy texture.
Strain for Smoothness: Always strain the batter before pouring it into the pan. This step is key for a beautifully smooth and creamy Strawberry Matcha Basque Cheesecake.
Optimal Cooling: Allow the cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating. This helps in setting and developing the flavors beautifully.
Garnish with Care: Add delicate garnishes like fresh strawberries or edible flowers right before serving for a stunning visual appeal that complements the rich flavors.

What to Serve with Strawberry Matcha Basque Cheesecake

Elevate your dessert experience with delightful pairings that complement the earthy charm of this cheesecake.

Fresh Strawberries: Juicy, sweet strawberries enhance the fruity notes, bringing a refreshing contrast to the rich cheesecake. Their bright color adds a beautiful pop to your plate.
Light Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream balances the cheesecake’s richness, adding an airy touch that melts in your mouth.
Matcha Tea: Sipping on a warm cup of matcha tea deepens the flavor journey, allowing the earthy notes to resonate beautifully with each slice.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling a silky chocolate sauce over the cheesecake introduces a decadent sweetness, creating a heavenly combination of flavors that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
Green Tea Ice Cream: A creamy scoop of green tea ice cream echoes the matcha flavors while providing a cool, velvety texture that contrasts with the cheesecake’s richness.
Lavender Lemonade: Refreshing lavender lemonade brings a subtle floral note, brightening the dessert experience and cleansing the palate with every sip.
Almond Biscotti: Crunchy almond biscotti add a satisfying texture to each bite, offering a delightful contrast to the creamy cheesecake and pairing harmoniously with tea.
Sparkling Water: A glass of sparkling water with a twist of lemon brightens your meal, cleansing your palate between bites of the cheesecake’s indulgent layers.

Strawberry Matcha Basque Cheesecake Variations

Feel free to customize this delicious recipe to suit your taste buds and dietary needs!

Dairy-Free: Substitute cream cheese and heavy cream with coconut cream and vegan cream cheese for a non-dairy delight.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour to make it suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
Sweetness Level: Adjust the sugar to your liking! Substitute granulated sugar with agave syrup for a lighter sweetness.
Flavor Infusion: Try adding a hint of vanilla extract to the cheesecake batter for added depth of flavor.
Nutty Crunch: Fold in some crushed pistachios or almonds into the cheesecake for a delightful textural contrast.
Richness Boost: Integrate a splash of vanilla bean paste into the mascarpone topping for a fragrant twist.
Fruit Fusion: Swap out the strawberries for seasonal fruits like peaches or cherries for a refreshing variation.
Decadent Chocolate: Mix in some melted chocolate into the batter for a chocolatey take on this recipe!

For more dessert inspiration, don’t miss our luscious Carrot Cake Cheesecake or the enticing Strawberry Shortcake Sushi!

Storage Tips for Strawberry Matcha Basque Cheesecake

Fridge: Keep your cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to 4 days. This way, you’ll always have a delightful sweet treat at hand!
Freezer: If you need to store it longer, individually wrap cheesecake slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying again.
Reheating: While this cheesecake is best served chilled, if you prefer it slightly warmer, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This enhances the flavors of the creamy cheesecake and bright strawberries.

Strawberry Matcha Basque Cheesecake Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best matcha powder for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results in your Strawberry Matcha Basque Cheesecake, look for culinary-grade matcha powder. This type offers vibrant color and a pleasant flavor without breaking the bank. Avoid ceremonial-grade matcha, as it’s typically more expensive and better suited for drinking rather than baking.

How should I store leftover cheesecake?
To enjoy your cheesecake at its best, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days. Just make sure to cover the cheesecake well to prevent it from absorbing other odors in the fridge!

Can I freeze the Strawberry Matcha Basque Cheesecake?
Yes! If you want to save some slices for later, wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. This allows you to enjoy your delicious cheesecake for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to devour it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight to keep the texture creamy.

What can I do if my cheesecake cracks on top?
Very! If your cheesecake develops cracks, don’t fret—it’s a common occurrence! To prevent this in the future, make sure not to overmix the batter and avoid sudden temperature changes during baking. If you’re serving this cheesecake, you can always cover the cracks with the strawberry topping for a beautiful disguise!

Are there any dietary considerations for this cheesecake?
Yes! If you or your loved ones have allergies, be cautious with the ingredients. The cheesecake is nut-free and can be made gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. For a vegan option, substitute eggs with flax eggs and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. Enjoy experimenting with alternatives to find what works best for you!