The Rise of Basque Cheesecake in Nevada
Nevada has a new claim to fame in the world of desserts. According to Condé Nast Traveler’s “50 States, 50 Desserts” list, the Basque cheesecake—also known as burnt Basque cheesecake—has been named the state’s most iconic sweet. This crustless dessert, baked at high heat to create a caramelized top and a creamy center, has become a beloved treat among locals and visitors alike.
The origins of this unique cheesecake trace back to San Sebastián, Spain, where it was first created in 1988 at La Viña, a bar in the Basque Country. Unlike traditional cheesecakes, which are often baked with a crust, the Basque version is made without one. It is also baked at a higher temperature, resulting in a dark, caramelized exterior while maintaining a soft and custardy center.
In recent years, the dessert has gained worldwide popularity, thanks in part to social media and coverage from major outlets such as the New York Times. In 2021, the Times even named it a “Flavor of the Year,” further cementing its status as a culinary favorite.
Where to Find Basque Cheesecake in Nevada
For those eager to try this delicious dessert, several restaurants and bakeries across Nevada offer their own versions of the Basque cheesecake. Here are some of the best places to experience this treat:
- Louis’ Basque Corner, Reno
- Address: 301 E. Fourth St.
- Hours: Monday 4 p.m. to close; Tuesday–Saturday 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Sunday 4 to 9 p.m.
- Lunch served Tuesday–Saturday 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
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Dinner available Monday–Saturday 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., Sunday 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
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Flour Bakery, Reno
- Address: 9570 S. McCarran Blvd., Suite 109
- Hours: Monday through Saturday noon to 5 p.m.
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Closed on Sundays.
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Flour Bakery, Sparks
- Address: 113 Los Altos Pkwy., Suite 102
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Hours: Monday through Thursday noon to 6 p.m.; Friday and Saturday noon to 7 p.m.; Sunday noon to 6 p.m.
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The Star Hotel, Elko
- Address: 246 Silver St.
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A historic establishment that has been serving Basque-inspired dishes since 1910.
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A Different Beast, Las Vegas
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Address: 5420 Spring Mountain Road, Suite 108
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Pisces Bar & Seafare, Wynn Las Vegas
- Address: 3131 S. Las Vegas Blvd.
These locations not only serve the Basque cheesecake but also carry on Nevada’s rich Basque culinary traditions, offering a taste of the region’s heritage.
Other Iconic Desserts Across the United States
Condé Nast Traveler’s “50 States, 50 Desserts” list highlights the unique sweet treats that define each state. Some of the other notable desserts include:
- Alabama: Peanut butter pie
- Alaska: Baked Alaska
- Arizona: Sweet blue corn mush
- Arkansas: Possum pie
- California: Date shake
- Colorado: Peach cobbler
- Connecticut: Stew Leonard’s soft serve
- Delaware: Strawberry pretzel salad
- Florida: Key lime pie
- Georgia: Peach soft serve
- Hawaii: Haupia
- Idaho: Ice cream potato
- Illinois: Pumpkin pie
- Indiana: Sugar cream pie
- Iowa: Scotcheroo
- Kansas: Peppernuts
- Kentucky: Derby pie
- Louisiana: Beignets
- Maine: Blueberry pie
- Maryland: Smith Island cake
- Massachusetts: Portuguese fried dough
- Michigan: Mackinac Island fudge
- Minnesota: Bundt cake
- Mississippi: Banana pudding
- Missouri: Gooey butter cake
- Montana: Huckleberry bear claws
- Nebraska: Cinnamon rolls
- New Hampshire: Apple cider doughnuts
- New Jersey: Kohr’s frozen custard
- New Mexico: Sopapillas
- New York: Babka
- North Carolina: Cheerwine float
- North Dakota: Lefse
- Ohio: Buckeye
- Oklahoma: Pecan pie
- Oregon: Marionberry pie
- Pennsylvania: Banana split
- Puerto Rico: Tembleque
- Rhode Island: Coffee frappe
- South Carolina: Benne wafers
- South Dakota: Kuchen
- Tennessee: Moon pie
- Texas: Tres leches
- Utah: Dirty soda
- Vermont: Maple creemee
- Virginia: Mile-high blackberry ice cream pie
- Washington: Apple crisp
- Washington, D.C.: Halva
- West Virginia: Vinegar pie
- Wisconsin: Kringle
- Wyoming: Cowboy cookies
Each of these desserts reflects the culture, history, and flavors of its respective state, making them must-try experiences for any food lover.
