Fluffy Japanese-Style Cheesecake

 

Fluffy Japanese-Style Cheesecake Recipe

Delightfully light, delicately sweet, and wonderfully fluffy, the Japanese-Style Cheesecake—also known as a “jiggly” cheesecake—has captivated dessert lovers worldwide. With its cloud-like texture and gentle flavors, this cheesecake is as enchanting to look at as it is delicious to eat. Our recipe provides a step-by-step guide to help you create a perfect Japanese cheesecake that achieves the ideal balance of texture, flavor, and appearance.

Introduction to Fluffy Japanese-Style Cheesecake

Unlike traditional Western cheesecakes, which are rich and dense, the Japanese version combines elements of sponge cake and cheesecake. Originating in Japan in the 1980s, this dessert has become internationally popular for its unique, airy texture. Achieved by folding whipped egg whites into a creamy batter and baking it in a water bath, this cheesecake’s lightness and bounce make it a true showstopper. Serve it as a lovely finish to any meal or as a special treat for family and friends.

Ingredients for Fluffy Japanese-Style Cheesecake

To make this cheesecake, it’s essential to gather high-quality ingredients and follow the steps carefully to achieve the right texture and taste.

Ingredients

For the Cheesecake Batter

• 1 cup (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 5 large egg yolks
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for a slight tang)

For the Meringue

• 5 large egg whites
• 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Fluffy Japanese-Style Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Tools

1. Preheat the Oven
   • Preheat your oven to 320°F (160°C). Prepare a 7-inch springform pan by lining the bottom with parchment paper. Wrap the outside of the pan with aluminum foil to prevent water from entering during the water bath.
2. Prepare the Water Bath
   • Fill a larger baking pan with about 1 inch of hot water. This will serve as the water bath, which creates a gentle, moist environment for the cheesecake, preventing cracks and ensuring a soft, fluffy texture.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Batter

1. Melt Cream Cheese, Butter, and Milk
   • In a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water (double boiler), combine 1 cup cream cheese, 1/4 cup unsalted butter, and 1/2 cup whole milk. Stir gently until the mixture is smooth and fully melted. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
2. Sift Dry Ingredients
   • In a separate bowl, sift 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons cornstarch, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. This will help create a smooth, lump-free batter.
3. Add Egg Yolks and Vanilla
   • Once the cream cheese mixture has cooled to room temperature, add 5 large egg yolks, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1 tablespoon lemon juice (if using). Stir until well combined.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
   • Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients to the cream cheese mixture, folding gently until smooth and well incorporated. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 3: Prepare the Meringue

1. Beat the Egg Whites
   • In a clean, dry mixing bowl, beat 5 large egg whites using an electric mixer on medium speed until foamy. Add 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar and increase the speed to medium-high.
2. Add Sugar Gradually
   • Gradually add 1/2 cup granulated sugar, a little at a time, while continuing to beat the egg whites. Continue until you achieve stiff peaks, where the egg whites hold their shape but are not dry or grainy.