Burnt Basque Style Cheesecake with Poached Rhubarb
Plus two breakfast spots for your weekends
I recently realised I’ve never actually shared my classic Basque-style cheesecake recipe. I’ve posted versions with salted caramel, matcha, and crème brûlée flavours—but never the OG. So while rhubarb is in season (which happens to be my favourite pairing for a classic burnt Basque cheesecake), I figured now’s the time to finally share it.
While we’re here, let’s talk poached rhubarb. It’s so easy to overcook and end up with stringy mush (been there), but I’ve finally nailed a way to do it at home that’s super reliable and gives you perfectly tender rhubarb every time. I’ve served it here with the Basque cheesecake, which is a dreamy combo, but it’s also great spooned over yoghurt bowls at breakfast or even on top of porridge.
This time of year is also when I start getting that itch to spend weekend mornings out and about, grabbing breakfast and pastries again. Two spots I’ve really enjoyed lately are Kricket in Shoreditch and Chatsworth Bakehouse in Crystal Palace.
Chatsworth Bakehouse serve up pretty unreal pastries and baked bits. I got there half an hour before they opened because I fancied a little wander around Crystal Palace, and the queue had already started. I think I was fourth in line, and by the time they opened, there were 30–40 people behind me. Definitely worth getting there early if you can. The savoury bakes were the standouts for me, especially the spiced aubergine galette with whipped feta and the chocolate Guinness cake. Even though I make a pretty great one at home (shout out to Nigella, her recipe will forever be goated), it’s always fun trying a new spin. CB’s version was a gooden.
Order highlights
– Spiced aubergine galette, whipped feta
– Chocolate Guinness cake
– Marinara milk bread
Kricket has a few locations across London, serving how they describe “modern Indian cooking.” I’ve been to their Brixton spot many times (never leave without getting the Keralan fried chicken, seriously, get it). Most recently, I checked out their new Shoreditch location on Charlotte Road. The space is gorgeous, really bright and open, with moody pink walls I was a bit obsessed with (might need to borrow that look for future home reno inspo).
This visit was all about trying their brand-new breakfast menu, and I have to say it’s a great mix of sweet/savoury and indulgent vs. lighter options, ideal for a midweek treat. And yes, if you’re like me and can never not try a pastry, the cruffin is fab.
Order highlights
– Sesame cruffin with salted date butter
– Fried eggs with tomato chutney, smoked yoghurt & curry leaf brown butter
– Shahi tudka (Indian French toast with rhubarb and custard)
