The first time I combined matcha and strawberries, I was taken by surprise. The earthy green tea notes wove beautifully with the sweet juiciness of fresh strawberries, creating a flavor explosion that lingered long after the last bite. That delicious moment inspired me to craft this delightful Strawberry Matcha Basque Cheesecake—a twist on the classic that’s as visually striking as it is indulgent.
Imagine slicing into a creamy, custardy interior beneath a beautifully charred top, with a light, airy strawberry topping that elevates this dessert into the realm of the extraordinary. Perfect for anyone tired of the fast-food routine, this cheesecake is not only simple to prepare but also offers a stunning presentation for gatherings, impressing everyone at the table. Plus, with no traditional crust, it’s a gluten-free option that does not skimp on flavor.
Join me as we dive into this luscious dessert, pairing rich matcha with vibrant strawberries for a truly unforgettable treat!
Why is Strawberry Matcha Basque Cheesecake a Must-Try?
Irresistible flavor combination: The earthy matcha complements the sweetness of strawberries, creating a unique taste experience that will wow your palate.
Decadent and creamy: This dessert features a smooth custard-like texture that melts in your mouth, finished with a beautifully charred top that adds character.
Showstopper presentation: With its vibrant colors and intricate layers, this cheesecake will be the centerpiece of any gathering, ensuring you impress your guests.
Gluten-free friendly: No crust means it’s suitable for those with gluten sensitivities, making it an inclusive option everyone can enjoy!
Quick and easy: With straightforward steps and minimal prep, you’ll have this elegant dessert ready without spending hours in the kitchen.
Strawberry Matcha Basque Cheesecake Ingredients
For the Cheesecake
- Cream Cheese – Provides richness and a creamy texture; use full-fat for the best results.
- Eggs – Bind ingredients together and add structure, ensuring your cheesecake holds its shape.
- Sugar – Sweetens the cheesecake and helps achieve that lovely caramelization on the top.
- Matcha Powder – Infuses a distinct earthy flavor; culinary grade is sufficient for the best taste.
- All-Purpose Flour – Adds a slight structure; can be omitted for gluten-free adjustments without a traditional crust.
- Heavy Cream – Enhances creaminess and contributes to the overall mouthfeel of the cheesecake.
- Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile.
For the Topping
- Heavy Whipping Cream – Key component for the topping, adding lightness and richness to complement the cheesecake.
- Mascarpone – Adds extra creaminess to the topping; can substitute with more whipped cream if needed.
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the topping, ensuring it remains light and fluffy while enhancing the flavors.
- Freeze-Dried Strawberry Powder – Provides intense strawberry flavor without added moisture; fresh strawberries can be blended for an alternative flavor.
Feel the excitement? Gather these ingredients to whip up your very own Strawberry Matcha Basque Cheesecake!
How to Make Strawberry Matcha Basque Cheesecake
-
Preheat: Begin by preheating your oven to 240°C (465°F). Prepare a 24cm (9-inch) round cake pan by lining it with crumpled parchment paper, ensuring it fits snugly to catch the delicious cheesecake batter.
-
Blend: In a blender, combine the cream cheese, eggs, sugar, matcha powder, flour, heavy cream, and salt. Blend until smooth and creamy, about 1-2 minutes. This step is crucial for a lump-free batter!
-
Strain: Strain the blended batter through a sieve into your prepared pan. This ensures a silky texture by eliminating any lumps, resulting in that quintessential custardy feel.
-
Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35 minutes. The top should turn a beautiful brown while the center remains slightly jiggly. This contrast is key to that memorable texture!
-
Cool: Once baked, allow the cheesecake to cool at room temperature for about an hour. After cooling, transfer it to the refrigerator until fully set—about 4 hours works wonders.
-
Whip: In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream, mascarpone, powdered sugar, and freeze-dried strawberry powder together until stiff peaks form. This will create a light and airy topping to contrast the cheesecake’s richness.
-
Top: Carefully spread the whipped strawberry topping over the chilled cheesecake, smoothing it out to cover completely. Chill again for an additional 2-3 hours to firm up the topping.
-
Garnish: Optional: For an elegant touch, garnish your beautiful cheesecake with fresh strawberries just before serving, adding a pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Strawberry Matcha Basque Cheesecake
- Fridge: Store your Strawberry Matcha Basque Cheesecake in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This helps maintain its creamy texture and vibrant flavors.
- Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to a month. Thaw it in the fridge before serving to enjoy its rich taste again.
- Serving Leftovers: Reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds if you prefer them slightly warm, but it’s equally delightful chilled!
What to Serve with Strawberry Matcha Basque Cheesecake?
Elevate your dessert experience with delightful pairings that enhance the creamy, rich flavors of this unique cheesecake.
-
Fresh Berries: A mix of raspberries, blueberries, and strawberries adds a refreshing burst of fruitiness, perfectly complementing the cheesecake’s sweetness.
-
Japanese Green Tea: The earthy notes of green tea enhance the matcha flavor, making it a soothing companion for this decadent dessert.
-
Light Sorbet: A scoop of lemon or yuzu sorbet provides a zesty contrast, cutting through the rich creaminess and refreshing your palate.
-
Coconut Whipped Cream: The light and airy texture of coconut-whipped cream adds a tropical flair that perfectly balances the earthy tones of matcha.
-
Chocolate Drizzle: A rich, dark chocolate drizzle adds an indulgent twist, allowing the sweet and bitter flavors to meld beautifully.
-
Almond Biscotti: These crunchy treats offer a delightful contrast in texture, and their nutty flavor pairs well with both the matcha and strawberries.
-
Chai Tea Latte: The comforting spices in chai beautifully enhance the dessert’s flavors. Sipping on this warm drink while enjoying your cheesecake creates a cozy experience.
-
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of classic vanilla ice cream provides a creamy companion that never fails to impress alongside rich desserts.
-
Honey-Lavender Infused Tea: This fragrant tea adds a floral touch, perfectly balancing the flavors of the cheesecake while providing a lovely aromatic experience.
Make Ahead Options
These Strawberry Matcha Basque Cheesecake components are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cheesecake batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply blend and strain the ingredients as instructed, then tightly cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate. The cheesecake itself can be baked ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days before serving—just ensure it cools completely before chilling to maintain its silky texture. For the strawberry topping, mix the heavy cream, mascarpone, and freeze-dried strawberry powder up to 8 hours before you plan to serve. When ready, spread the topping over the cheesecake, garnish it, and enjoy the delightful flavors with minimal last-minute effort!
Strawberry Matcha Basque Cheesecake Variations
Feel free to get creative with this delicious recipe! You can enhance flavors or adapt it to fit your dietary needs.
- No Matcha: Omit matcha powder for a traditional Basque cheesecake topped with luscious strawberries.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute cream cheese and mascarpone with dairy-free cream cheese, and use coconut cream for a lighter topping.
- Sugar-Free: Replace sugar with your favorite sugar substitute for a healthier version while still satisfying your sweet cravings.
- Nutty Crunch: Add a crumble of almonds or pistachios on top for a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with each creamy slice.
- Seasonal Fruits: Swap strawberries for seasonal fruits such as peaches or blueberries for a fresh twist; just remember to blend them smoothly.
- Chocolate Drizzle: For a decadent touch, drizzle a chocolate ganache over the whipped topping before serving—indulgent and delightful!
- Spicy Sweet: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheesecake batter for a subtle kick that perfectly complements the sweet and earthy flavors.
- Zesty Citrus: Incorporate lemon or lime zest into the batter for a refreshing citrus note alongside the rich matcha and strawberry profiles.
Experimenting with these variations can create a personal touch to your Strawberry Matcha Basque Cheesecake!
Expert Tips for Strawberry Matcha Basque Cheesecake
- Smooth Batter: Strain the blended batter to eliminate lumps, ensuring your Strawberry Matcha Basque Cheesecake comes out creamy and custardy.
- Baking Time: Keep a close eye on baking time; the center should jiggle slightly when done, indicating it’s perfectly baked without being runny.
- Clean Slices: For neat slices, dip your knife in hot water and wipe it dry before cutting into the cheesecake—this keeps the texture intact!
- Moisture Consideration: If using fresh strawberries in the topping, keep their moisture in check to ensure the topping holds its shape and doesn’t become soggy.
- Cooling Time: Let the cheesecake cool at room temperature before refrigerating; this helps with texture and prevents condensation inside the fridge.
Strawberry Matcha Basque Cheesecake Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe strawberries for the cheesecake?
Absolutely! Look for strawberries that are bright red, firm, and shiny. Avoid berries with dark spots or mold, as they can affect the overall flavor of your cheesecake. If they’re slightly soft but still sweet, they can be used in the topping for a natural sweetness.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Very! Store your Strawberry Matcha Basque Cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This ensures it retains its creamy texture and delicious flavors. It’s best enjoyed chilled, so keep it covered and let it stay cool!
Can I freeze the Cheesecake?
Yes! To freeze, wrap your cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to a month. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving to maintain its delightful consistency and flavors.
Why is my cheesecake too jiggly in the middle?
The center should remain slightly jiggly when you remove it from the oven, resembling a custard. If it’s too runny or soupy, it may have been underbaked. Every oven is different, so I recommend checking it at the 30-minute mark to ensure it’s perfectly caramelized but not fully set.
Is this cheesecake suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes! Since there’s no traditional crust in this Strawberry Matcha Basque Cheesecake, it’s naturally gluten-free. Always check your ingredient labels, especially for the baking powder or any other added components, to ensure they meet gluten-free standards.
How can I achieve a clean slice when serving?
To achieve beautiful slices, dip your knife in hot water and dry it before cutting into the cheesecake. This technique helps you cut through the creamy texture without destroying the layers. It’s a game-changer for presentation!
Strawberry Matcha Basque Cheesecake: A Creamy Dream Dessert
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 240°C (465°F) and prepare a 24cm round cake pan by lining it with crumpled parchment paper.
- In a blender, combine cream cheese, eggs, sugar, matcha powder, flour, heavy cream, and salt. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Strain the blended batter through a sieve into your prepared pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes until the top is brown and the center jiggles slightly.
- Allow the cheesecake to cool at room temperature for about an hour, then refrigerate for about 4 hours.
- In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream, mascarpone, powdered sugar, and freeze-dried strawberry powder until stiff peaks form.
- Spread the whipped topping over the chilled cheesecake and chill for an additional 2-3 hours.
- Optional: Garnish with fresh strawberries before serving.