Introduction:
Japanese Cheesecake, also known as “Soufflé Cheesecake,” is beloved for its light, airy, and fluffy texture. Unlike traditional Western cheesecakes, this delightful treat is less dense, with a creamy and melt-in-the-mouth texture. It’s a perfect combination of cheesecake and sponge cake, making it both rich and light. Here’s how you can make this beautiful, pillowy dessert at home!
Recipe for Japanese Cheesecake
Ingredients:
- Cream Cheese Mixture:
- 250g (1 cup) cream cheese, softened
- 50g (1/4 cup) unsalted butter
- 100ml (1/2 cup) milk
- Egg Yolk Mixture:
- 6 large eggs, yolks, and whites separated
- 70g (1/3 cup) sugar (for yolks)
- 60g (1/2 cup) cake flour, sifted
- 20g (2 tbsp) cornstarch, sifted
- Meringue:
- 6 large egg whites
- 70g (1/3 cup) sugar (for meringue)
- 1/4 tsp cream of tartar or lemon juice
- For Topping:
- Powdered sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
- In a heatproof bowl, combine the cream cheese, butter, and milk.
- Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water and whisk until smooth and well-blended.
- Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
2. Add the Egg Yolks
- Once the mixture has cooled, add the egg yolks and sugar. Mix until smooth.
- Sift in the cake flour and cornstarch, and fold gently to incorporate.
3. Make the Meringue
- In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites with cream of tartar until frothy.
- Gradually add the sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
4. Combine the Mixtures
- Gently fold the meringue into the cream cheese mixture in batches. Be careful not to deflate the batter.
5. Bake
- Pour the batter into a greased and lined springform pan.
- Place the pan in a larger baking dish filled with hot water (water bath).
- Bake in a preheated oven at 150°C (300°F) for about 1 hour or until golden brown and set.
6. Cool and Serve
- Let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly open to prevent cracking.
- Once cooled, remove from the pan and dust with powdered sugar if desired. Slice and enjoy!
Enjoy your fluffy, homemade Japanese Cheesecake!