
Discover the magic of this rustic, crustless cheesecake with its iconic charred top and incredibly creamy center. It's surprisingly simple to make and perfect for any occasion where you want a show-stopping dessert.
Preheat your oven to 240°C (220°C fan/gas 9). Grease a deep 20cm springform or loose-bottom cake tin with butter.
Line the tin with two large sheets of baking parchment. Place them overlapping at a 45-degree angle so the corners point in different directions and extend well above the rim. Press the paper into the corners and sides, allowing the natural creases to remain as they give the cake its signature look.
In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, beat the soft cheese and caster sugar together for 1-2 minutes. Ensure the sugar has completely dissolved by rubbing a small amount of the mixture between your fingertips; it should feel smooth, not grainy.
Add the flour, soured cream, eggs, vanilla, and salt to the bowl. Mix until the batter reaches a smooth, uniform consistency.
Pour the mixture into the lined tin, scraping the bowl clean. Tap the tin sharply on the worktop to remove any trapped air bubbles.
Bake for 30 minutes until the top is deeply caramelized and puffed up like a soufflé. The cheesecake should still have a distinct wobble in the center when the tin is gently shaken.
Allow the cheesecake to cool completely in the tin; it will sink naturally as it cools. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. This cake keeps well in the fridge for up to two days.
For the best results, use room-temperature ingredients to ensure a perfectly smooth batter. If you prefer a more 'molten' center, reduce the baking time by 5 minutes. This dessert is traditionally served at room temperature or slightly chilled.




