Japanese Cheesecake Recipe

Introduction:

Discover the delicate texture and irresistible taste of Japanese Cheesecake, a dessert that effortlessly combines the richness of traditional cheesecake with the lightness of a soufflé. This airy, melt-in-your-mouth treat is perfect for those who prefer a less dense version of classic cheesecake. Its subtle sweetness and pillowy texture make it a crowd-pleaser, whether for a special occasion or just a simple dessert to enjoy at home.

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar, divided
• 6 eggs, separated
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1 lemon, zested
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Oven

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. Line the Cake Pan: Line the bottom of an 8-inch round cake pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the sides. This will help the cheesecake release easily after baking.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Mixture

1. Melt Ingredients: In a small saucepan, over low heat, melt 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup butter, and 1/2 cup whole milk, stirring constantly until smooth and fully combined.
2. Cool and Add Egg Yolks: Once the mixture is smooth, remove the pan from the heat and allow it to cool slightly. Stir in the 6 egg yolks, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and zest of 1 lemon, mixing until well incorporated.

Step 3: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

1. Sift the Dry Ingredients: Sift 1/4 cup all-purpose flour and 1/4 cup cornstarch into the cream cheese mixture. Stir until smooth and lump-free. The batter should be creamy and thick at this stage.

Step 4: Prepare the Egg Whites

1. Beat the Egg Whites: In a large mixing bowl, add the 6 egg whites and 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar. Using an electric mixer, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form.
2. Gradually Add Sugar: Slowly add the remaining 2/3 cup sugar (in 2-3 batches), continuing to beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. The meringue should hold its shape but remain glossy and smooth.

Step 5: Fold the Mixtures Together

1. Combine the Mixtures: Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the cream cheese mixture in thirds. Use a rubber spatula to carefully fold, ensuring that the egg whites maintain their volume without deflating. The batter should be light and airy once fully combined.

Step 6: Set Up the Water Bath

1. Pour the Batter: Pour the combined batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the surface with a spatula to eliminate air bubbles.
2. Water Bath: Place the cake pan inside a larger baking dish. Carefully pour hot water into the outer baking dish, filling it about halfway up the sides of the cake pan. This water bath (or bain-marie) will help create the cheesecake’s characteristic light texture and prevent cracking during baking.

Step 7: Bake the Cheesecake

1. Bake: Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 10 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set but still slightly wobbly in the center. The surface should be a light golden brown.
2. Cool Gradually: Once baked, turn off the oven, leaving the door slightly ajar, and allow the cheesecake to cool inside the oven for 1 hour. This gradual cooling process will help prevent the cheesecake from collapsing or cracking.

Step 8: Chill and Serve

1. Chill the Cheesecake: After cooling in the oven, remove the cheesecake and allow it to cool completely at room temperature. Then, refrigerate it for at least 4 hours (or overnight) before serving. Chilling helps the cheesecake set and enhances its flavor and texture.
2. Garnish: Dust the top with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant touch, if desired.

Conclusion:

This Japanese Cheesecake is a delightful fusion of traditional cheesecake and soufflé, offering a light, airy, and creamy texture that’s less rich than its American counterpart but just as satisfying. With its subtle sweetness and cloud-like consistency, this dessert is perfect for any gathering or as a comforting treat to enjoy with a cup of tea. Whether you’re a cheesecake lover or new to this style of dessert, the melt-in-your-mouth goodness of this Japanese classic will surely impress!