London Fog Basque Cheesecake with Blackberry Sauce Recipe

If you love the rich creaminess of cheesecake with a tea-infused twist and a burst of vibrant fruit flavor, then you are going to fall head over heels for the London Fog Basque Cheesecake with Blackberry Sauce. This recipe takes the beloved Basque cheesecake, known for its browned, almost brûléed top and silky texture, and infuses it with aromatic Earl Grey tea to create a subtle floral and citrusy flavor profile. Paired with a tangy blackberry sauce that adds just the right balance of sweetness and tartness, this dessert feels both elegant and comfortingly familiar—perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to something special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for the London Fog Basque Cheesecake with Blackberry Sauce is surprisingly straightforward, yet each plays a vital role in crafting that unforgettable flavor and luscious texture. From the uniquely infused cream to the bright and fresh blackberries, these simple elements come together in perfect harmony.

• Heavy whipping cream: Used as the base for steeping Earl Grey tea, which infuses the cheesecake with distinctive floral notes.
• Earl Grey tea bags: The star ingredient providing that signature bergamot flavor for the London Fog twist.
• Cream cheese, softened: The rich and tangy backbone of the cheesecake’s creamy texture.
• Sugar: Sweetens both the cheesecake and the blackberry sauce, balancing tartness.
• Eggs, room temperature: Help with structure and give the cake its silky, custardy consistency.
• Vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract: Enhances the depth of flavor, complementing the tea and berry notes.
• Flour: Just a touch to stabilize the cheesecake without weighing it down.
• Blackberries: Fresh or thawed, for the vibrant homemade sauce and garnish.
• Cornstarch: Thickens the blackberry sauce for the perfect pourable consistency.
• Lemon juice: Brightens the sauce with a fresh, zesty lift.
• Crème de cassis (optional): Adds a subtle, fruity complexity to the sauce, elevating this dessert even further.
• Fresh blackberries (for garnish): To add a pop of color and fresh fruitiness when serving.

How to Make London Fog Basque Cheesecake with Blackberry Sauce

Step 1: Steep the Earl Grey Cream

Start by gently warming the heavy cream in a saucepan until hot but not boiling. Then, add the Earl Grey tea bags and press them down to ensure full contact. This step is crucial as it infuses the cream with that unmistakable bergamot aroma and taste, setting the tone for the entire cheesecake. After about 30 minutes of steeping with the pan covered, strain and reserve the cream, adding more if needed to reach the right amount.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Batter

Next, in a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, blend the softened cream cheese and sugar until you achieve a perfectly smooth mixture. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing gently to keep the batter light yet cohesive. Pour in the vanilla bean paste and your aromatic Earl Grey steeped cream, then sift in the flour to lightly bind everything together. This step ensures the cheesecake will have that luxurious, melt-in-your-mouth texture while carrying the subtle tea essence in every bite.

Step 3: Line and Preheat

Before baking, line your 9-inch springform pan with two large squares of parchment paper. Scrunch the paper first to give it texture, then smooth it into the pan so the edges rise higher than the pan itself, creating a rustic, crinkled effect that’s part of the Basque cheesecake charm. Preheat your oven to 425°F, which is essential for developing that signature deeply browned top.

Step 4: Bake the Cheesecake

Pour the luscious batter into the parchment-lined pan and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. The cheesecake should rise beautifully with a caramelized top that looks almost brûléed and have a slight jiggle in the center. This wobble is key—it guarantees a creamy interior instead of a dense one. Once baked, allow it to cool completely, ideally for at least 4 hours, to let the flavors settle and the texture firm up just right.

Step 5: Make the Blackberry Sauce

While your cheesecake cools, whisk together fresh or thawed blackberries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat until the blackberries break down and the sauce thickens to a glossy, spoonable consistency. Stir in crème de cassis if you like for an extra hint of fruity sophistication. This vibrant sauce is what brings the London Fog Basque Cheesecake with Blackberry Sauce to life by adding tart freshness against the rich cake.

How to Serve London Fog Basque Cheesecake with Blackberry Sauce

Garnishes

When it comes to garnishing your cheesecake, simplicity is best. Fresh blackberries scattered on top add a juicy burst of color and enhance the fruity notes of the sauce. If you want to get fancy, a light dusting of powdered sugar can add a delicate touch of elegance. A sprig of fresh mint can also provide an inviting pop of green and a subtle herbal aroma.

Side Dishes

This cheesecake shines wonderfully as a standalone dessert, but pairing it with a bright fruit salad or a crisp, lightly sweetened herbal tea can balance the richness nicely. A dollop of lightly whipped cream on the side adds a cloud-like softness that complements the slightly caramelized crust and velvety interior perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a wow-worthy presentation, serve individual slices on elegant plates with a drizzle of the blackberry sauce artistically swirled alongside. Alternatively, mini cheesecakes in ramekins topped with blackberry sauce are perfect for parties. Adding edible flowers or even a dusting of crushed Earl Grey tea leaves on top can bring a thematic touch that ties the flavors and aesthetic together beautifully.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover London Fog Basque Cheesecake with Blackberry Sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to keep the blackberry sauce separate until serving to maintain the freshest texture and bright flavor.

Freezing

If you want to keep this dessert on hand for longer, the cheesecake freezes well. Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. You can freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving, and reheat briefly if desired for that freshly baked warmth.

Reheating

For a slightly warmed dessert experience, gently reheat slices in a low oven (around 300°F) for 10 to 15 minutes. Warm the blackberry sauce separately and drizzle over the cheesecake just before serving to bring the flavors back to life without compromising texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different tea instead of Earl Grey for this cheesecake?

Absolutely! While Earl Grey is classic for the London Fog flavor, you can experiment with other black teas or even add a hint of lavender or rose to create your own unique twist. Just make sure to steep the tea in cream as directed to infuse those delicate flavors fully.

Do I need a stand mixer to make this cheesecake?

No stand mixer is required! You can use a hand mixer or even whisk by hand if you prefer. Just take care to mix the batter until smooth without overbeating to maintain that creamy texture.

Why does the Basque cheesecake have a burnt top?

The burnt or deeply browned top is a signature feature of Basque cheesecake. The high baking temperature caramelizes the sugars on the surface, creating a rich, slightly bitter crust that contrasts deliciously with the smooth interior.

Is the blackberry sauce necessary?

While the cheesecake is delicious on its own, the blackberry sauce adds a wonderful layer of tartness and fruity brightness that perfectly balances the richness and tea notes of the cake. It’s highly recommended to elevate the overall flavor experience.

Can I make this cheesecake gluten-free?

Yes! The only ingredient containing gluten is the flour. You can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to keep it safe for gluten-free diets without sacrificing texture.

Final Thoughts

Making the London Fog Basque Cheesecake with Blackberry Sauce might seem like a bit of an adventure, but trust me, it’s so worth the effort. Each bite wraps you in the comforting warmth of Earl Grey tea and luxurious cheesecake creaminess, all beautifully balanced by the tangy, jewel-toned blackberry sauce. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply to indulge yourself, this is one dessert that promises smiles and delighted taste buds. Give it a try and watch it become a new favorite for you and everyone lucky enough to share it!

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