Light and Fluffy Japanese Cheesecake

Light and Fluffy Japanese Cheesecake

Introduction:

Discover the delightful texture and taste of Japanese Cheesecake, a culinary treasure that combines the richness of traditional cheesecake with the airiness of a soufflé. This dessert is perfect for those who enjoy a lighter, less dense version of the classic cheesecake.

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar
• 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:

1. Preparation:
   • Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line the bottom of an 8-inch round cake pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the sides.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients:
   • In a small saucepan over low heat, combine cream cheese, butter, and milk until smooth. Remove from heat and let cool. Once cooled, mix in the egg yolks, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Dry Ingredients:
   • Sift flour and cornstarch into the cream cheese mixture and mix until smooth.
4. Egg Whites:
   • In a large bowl, beat the egg whites with the cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar while continuing to beat until stiff peaks form.
5. Combine Mixtures:
   • Gently fold the egg whites into the cream cheese mixture, taking care not to deflate the mixture.
6. Baking:
   • Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Place the cake pan inside a larger baking pan and fill the outer pan with hot water (about halfway up the sides of the cake pan).
   • Bake for 1 hour and 10 minutes, or until set but still slightly wobbly in the center.
7. Cooling:
   • Turn off the oven, slightly open the door, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour. This helps prevent the cheesecake from cracking.
8. Serving:
   • Chill the cheesecake in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours before serving. Dust with powdered sugar, if desired, before serving.

Conclusion: This Japanese Cheesecake recipe brings a beloved international flavor into your kitchen, offering a smooth, creamy texture with just the right amount of sweetness. It’s a sophisticated yet surprisingly simple dessert that’s sure to impress at any gathering or provide a delightful finish to any meal. Enjoy the melt-in-your-mouth goodness of one of Japan’s most famous desserts!