If you love cheesecake but crave something richer, creamier, and with a tropical twist, the Mango San Sebastián Cheesecake is your answer. This Spanish-style burnt cheesecake, known for its luscious, custard-like center and caramelized top, gets a vibrant upgrade with sweet, juicy mango.
Originating from the Basque region of Spain, the San Sebastián cheesecake (or tarta de queso) is famous for its simplicity—no crust, no water bath, just pure, velvety indulgence. By adding mango puree and fresh mango chunks, we elevate this dessert into a tropical masterpiece that’s perfect for summer gatherings, dinner parties, or anytime you want a decadent yet refreshing treat.
Why You’ll Love This Mango San Sebastián Cheesecake
✅ No crust, no fuss – Unlike traditional cheesecakes, this version skips the graham cracker base, making prep easier.
✅ Burnt yet beautiful – The dark, caramelized top contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior.
✅ Tropical sweetness – The mango adds natural sweetness and a burst of fruity freshness.
✅ Silky smooth texture – The center remains gloriously jiggly, almost like a flan or custard.
✅ Impressively easy – Just blend, pour, and bake—no complicated steps!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Cheesecake:
- 500g (17.6 oz) cream cheese (full-fat, room temperature)
- 200g (1 cup) granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs (room temperature)
- 300ml (1¼ cups) heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for a gluten-free option)
- Pinch of salt
For the Mango Swirl:
- 1 cup ripe mango puree (about 2 medium mangoes)
- 1 tbsp sugar (optional, if mango isn’t sweet enough)
- 1 tsp lemon juice (to enhance flavor)
For Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh mango slices
- Whipped cream
- Mint leaves
- A dusting of powdered sugar
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat & Prep
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F).
- Line an 8-inch (20cm) round cake pan with parchment paper, ensuring it hangs over the edges for easy removal.
2. Make the Mango Puree
- Blend 1 cup of diced mango until smooth.
- Strain to remove any fibrous bits (optional for extra smoothness).
- Mix in lemon juice and sugar (if needed). Set aside.
3. Prepare the Cheesecake Batter
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
- Gradually add sugar, mixing well.
- Add eggs, one at a time, blending after each addition.
- Pour in heavy cream, vanilla, flour, and salt, mixing until just combined (don’t overmix).
4. Add the Mango Swirl
- Pour ¾ of the cheesecake batter into the pan.
- Spoon mango puree over the top, then gently swirl with a knife.
- Pour the remaining batter and add another mango swirl.
5. Bake to Perfection
- Bake for 40-50 minutes until the top is deeply caramelized but the center is still slightly jiggly.
- Let it cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (best overnight).
6. Serve & Enjoy!
- Carefully lift the cheesecake from the pan using the parchment paper.
- Garnish with fresh mango slices, whipped cream, or mint.
- Slice and serve chilled for the best texture!
Why This Cheesecake Works
1. The Magic of Burnt Basque Cheesecake
Unlike New York-style cheesecake, the San Sebastián version is intentionally dark on top, creating a bittersweet contrast with the creamy interior. The high heat gives it a custard-like texture that’s irresistibly smooth.
2. Mango’s Natural Sweetness & Tang
Mango adds a tropical brightness, balancing the richness of the cream cheese. The puree swirls create a marble effect, making every bite a mix of creamy and fruity flavors.
3. No Water Bath, No Stress
Traditional cheesecakes require a water bath to prevent cracks, but this method embraces imperfections—the cracks and dark top are part of its charm!
Tips for the Best Mango Cheesecake
🔹 Use room temperature ingredients – Ensures a smooth, lump-free batter.
🔹 Don’t overmix – Too much air can cause uneven baking.
🔹 Adjust baking time – Ovens vary; the center should be wobbly but not liquid.
🔹 Chill thoroughly – This cheesecake tastes even better the next day!
🔹 Try different fruits – Passionfruit, raspberry, or coconut would also work well.
Serving Suggestions
🍽 With a scoop of coconut ice cream – Enhances the tropical vibe.
🍽 Drizzled with caramel or mango coulis – Adds extra decadence.
🍽 Paired with sparkling wine or iced tea – A perfect dessert for brunch or dinner.
Final Thoughts
This Mango San Sebastián Cheesecake is a showstopper—creamy, fruity, and luxuriously smooth with that signature Basque burnt top. It’s surprisingly simple to make yet looks and tastes like it came from a high-end patisserie.