Picota Cherries x Mr Millas Basque Cheesecake: A Symphony of Spanish Flavors

Photo credit: Costas Millas

⭐ Rating: 4.8/5 (based on home cooking experiences)

🕒 Prep Time: 20 minutes

🍳 Cook Time: 45 minutes

⏰ Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes (plus 4 hours chilling)

🥘 Servings: 8-10 slices

📊 Difficulty Level: Easy to Medium

There's something magical that happens when Spanish tradition meets modern innovation. As I stand in my kitchen, watching the golden sunset filter through my windows, I'm reminded of those precious moments when food becomes more than sustenance—it becomes a bridge between hearts, cultures, and memories.

Today, I want to share with you a recipe that has captured my imagination and taste buds: the exquisite Picota Cherries x Mr Millas Basque Cheesecake. While this isn't my own creation—credit goes to the talented Mr Millas and the beautiful photography that accompanies this recipe—I've had the absolute pleasure of recreating this masterpiece in my own kitchen, and I can tell you, it's nothing short of extraordinary.

This dessert represents the beautiful marriage between the renowned Basque cheesecake tradition and Spain's crown jewel of cherries—the Picota cherry. These aren't just any cherries; they're the pride of the Jerte Valley, with their distinctive heart shape and intense, sweet flavor that speaks of Spanish sunshine and centuries of careful cultivation.

I've watched families gather around tables, their eyes lighting up as they take that first bite of this creamy, caramelized perfection topped with those ruby-red Picota cherries. It's in these moments that I'm reminded why I fell in love with cooking—the power to create joy, to bring people together, and to celebrate the incredible ingredients that Spain has blessed us with.

Ingredients

 For the Basque Cheesecake:

• 600g cream cheese, room temperature

• 200g caster sugar

• 4 large eggs

• 300ml heavy cream

• 30g plain flour

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• Pinch of sea salt

  For the Picota Cherry Topping:

• 300g fresh Picota cherries, pitted

• 80g sugar

• 2 tbsp water

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Base

Preheat your oven to 220°C. Line a 23cm springform pan with parchment paper, allowing it to overhang the sides. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add sugar, beating until well combined. Add eggs one at a time, then fold in cream, flour, vanilla, and salt until just combined.

Step 2: Bake to Perfection

Pour the mixture into your prepared pan and bake for 45-50 minutes until the top is deeply golden and slightly jiggly in the center. The beauty of Basque cheesecake lies in its rustic, burnt appearance—don't worry if it looks darker than traditional cheesecakes!

Step 3: Create the Cherry Compote

While the cheesecake cools, combine Picota cherries, sugar, water, and lemon juice in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat for 8-10 minutes until cherries release their juices. Stir in the cornstarch mixture and cook for another 2 minutes until thickened. Allow to cool completely.

What Makes This Basque Cheesecake Special

The Basque cheesecake, or "tarta de queso," originates from the Basque Country and has taken the world by storm with its unique burnt exterior and impossibly creamy interior. Unlike traditional cheesecakes, it has no crust and achieves its signature caramelized top through high-temperature baking.

The Magic of Picota Cherries

Picota cherries are Spain's gastronomic treasure, grown exclusively in the Jerte Valley. Their natural sweetness and firm texture make them perfect for both fresh eating and cooking. These cherries are so special they have Protected Designation of Origin status—a testament to their exceptional quality.

Professional Tips for Perfect Results

Temperature Matters: Ensure all dairy ingredients are at room temperature for the smoothest texture

• Don't Overmix: Fold ingredients gently to avoid incorporating too much air

• Embrace the Burn: The darker the top, the more complex the flavor

• Patience is Key: Allow the cheesecake to cool completely before adding the cherry topping

Cherry Selection: If Picota cherries aren't available, choose the firmest, sweetest cherries you can find

This Picota Cherries x Mr Millas Basque Cheesecake isn't just a dessert—it's a celebration of Spanish culinary heritage, a testament to the power of simple, quality ingredients, and most importantly, a reason to gather those you love around your table.