Indulging in a luxuriously creamy dessert often feels like a moment of pure bliss, and few treats capture this essence as perfectly as the Earl Grey Burnt Cheesecake. This creation takes inspiration from the famous Basque-style cheesecake, celebrated for its caramelized, almost burnt-looking top and irresistibly gooey center. What sets this version apart is the infusion of fragrant Earl Grey tea, which adds delicate floral notes of bergamot that complement the rich tang of cream cheese. The combination is both elegant and comforting—an ideal centerpiece for an afternoon tea or the grand finale to a dinner party. Its sophistication lies in its simplicity: minimal ingredients, a unique infusion technique, and a baking process that invites a touch of rustic imperfection while delivering a flawless balance of flavors and textures.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 430 g cream cheese, room temperature, softened

• 120 g castor sugar

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 3 eggs, room temperature

• 270 g heavy cream (use more if needed after infusion)

• 15 g loose-leaf Earl Grey tea

• 20 g cake flour

Directions

• Heat the heavy cream with the loose-leaf Earl Grey tea in a saucepan over low-medium heat until just before simmering; do not allow it to boil. Steep the tea for about 15 minutes, then strain.

• Re-weigh the infused cream: if the volume has dropped below 270 g due to evaporation and absorption, top it up to reach that weight.

• Preheat your oven to 240 °C (465 °F). Line a 6-inch (15 cm) round cake tin with two layers of parchment paper, ensuring the paper extends at least 5 cm (2 in) above the rim.

• Beat together the cream cheese and sugar until smooth, then add eggs and vanilla extract and continue mixing until well combined.

• In a separate bowl, whisk the flour with about one-quarter of the infused cream to form a paste. Gradually add the rest of the infused cream until smooth.

• Combine the cream cheese mixture with the flour-cream mixture, pour into the lined tin, and bake for 30–35 minutes—until the top is deeply golden brown yet the center is still wobbly.

• Allow the cake to cool completely in the tin to set; enjoy at room temperature for a gooey center, or chill for a firmer texture.

Nutrients

• Calories: 3,184 kcal (whole cake)

• Carbohydrates: 167 g

• Protein: 55 g

• Fat: 260 g

• Saturated Fat: 154 g

• Polyunsaturated Fat: 14 g

• Monounsaturated Fat: 68 g

• Trans Fat: 0.1 g

• Cholesterol: 1,297 mg

• Sodium: 1,639 mg

• Potassium: 1,065 mg

• Fiber: 0.5 g

• Sugar: 145 g

• Vitamin A: 10,554 IU

• Vitamin C: 2 mg

• Calcium: 684 mg

• Iron: 4 mg

Why This Recipe Stands Out

The true magic of this cheesecake lies in its infusion of Earl Grey tea, which transforms the dessert from simple indulgence into something extraordinary. Unlike the traditional Basque cheesecake, this version carries a distinct floral undertone with hints of citrus and bergamot. These flavors blend seamlessly with the richness of cream cheese, creating a balance that feels both refreshing and decadent. The caramelized top contrasts beautifully with the soft, custard-like center, offering both texture and taste in perfect harmony. This minimalist recipe, with its absence of a crust, keeps the focus on the luxurious filling and its unique infusion. It’s a showstopping dessert that requires little effort but delivers remarkable flavor depth.

The Benefits of the Ingredients

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in building its layered personality. Cream cheese brings a creamy tang and body that anchors the delicate tea flavors. Heavy cream enriches the texture, giving the cheesecake its signature melt-in-the-mouth quality. Earl Grey tea, particularly when used in loose-leaf form, provides a sophisticated aroma and taste that tea bags simply cannot match. The oils in whole tea leaves infuse the cream with nuanced flavors that elevate the dessert’s profile. Cake flour offers just enough structure without weighing the batter down, ensuring the final result remains silky and custard-like rather than dense. Eggs, with their natural binding and emulsifying properties, create the luscious set that firms upon cooling while preserving a subtle wobble that makes each slice indulgent.

Cooking Tips

Perfecting this cheesecake requires patience and attention to detail, particularly during the infusion and baking steps. When steeping the tea, gentle heat is key—bringing the cream too close to a boil can result in bitterness or cause the cream to separate. Always re-weigh the infused cream after straining, since evaporation and absorption can alter the quantity and throw off the delicate balance of the recipe. A parchment-lined tin is essential, not only to prevent sticking but also to provide extra height as the batter rises dramatically in the oven before settling. Baking at a high temperature ensures the signature burnt top, but resist the urge to extend baking time if the center still looks jiggly. That wobble signals the creamy custard texture that defines this dessert. Finally, cooling in the tin allows the cake to set without collapsing or cracking prematurely.

Serving Suggestions

This cheesecake is versatile in how it can be enjoyed. Served at room temperature, it delivers a luxuriously soft and gooey center, while chilling it provides a firmer, sliceable texture that many guests may prefer. The subtle floral notes pair wonderfully with a bright fruit coulis—raspberry, strawberry, or even passionfruit offer a tangy counterpoint to the cheesecake’s richness. Fresh berries scattered on top bring freshness and a burst of natural sweetness, while candied citrus peel highlights the Earl Grey’s citrus undertones. A dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey can further enhance its presentation without overshadowing its flavors. For an added indulgence, serve with lightly whipped cream or crème fraîche, which contrasts the dense creaminess of the cheesecake. To emphasize the theme, pair each slice with a cup of Earl Grey tea or a citrusy herbal blend, creating a cohesive and elevated dining experience.

Conclusion

The Earl Grey Burnt Cheesecake is more than just a dessert—it is a statement of elegance crafted from humble ingredients. It marries the rustic charm of a Basque cheesecake with the sophistication of a tea-infused creation, offering something truly special for any occasion. With its dark, caramelized exterior, custard-like center, and delicate infusion of bergamot, it strikes a balance that is both comforting and refined. This cake doesn’t just satisfy a sweet tooth; it creates a moment of indulgence that lingers long after the last bite. Whether you serve it chilled for structure or at room temperature for gooey decadence, garnished with fruit or enjoyed plain, it always delivers a touch of sophistication. Once tried, it often becomes a signature recipe—one you’ll reach for again and again when you want to impress without complication.