Ingredients

Instructions

Step 1

Prepare the Baking Pan

Start by preparing your baking pan. Line the bottom with parchment paper and encase the sides with parchment paper that goes at least 5 centimeters higher than the edge of the pan. If using a ring mold, tightly wrap it with aluminum foil to prevent leaking.

Step 2

Mix Cheese Ingredients

Separate the eggs into yolks and whites. Combine the cream cheese, milk, and butter in a heatproof bowl. Place this bowl over a steamer or heat it gently in a kitchen machine set to 60 degrees Celsius (140 degrees Fahrenheit).

Continuously stir until the mixture becomes smooth and homogeneous. Allow the mixture to cool slightly before adding the yolks one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition.

Step 3

Combine Dry Ingredients

Sift the flour and cornstarch into the cheese mixture, ensuring to mix well to eliminate any lumps. Lastly, add the lemon juice and stir until well combined.

Step 4

Whip Egg Whites

In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until soft peaks form. Gradually add the sugar while continuing to beat until stiff peaks form.

Step 5

Fold in Egg Whites

Delicately fold the whipped egg whites into the cheese mixture. Be careful not to deflate the batter too much. The goal is to maintain the light and airy texture of the cheesecake.

Step 6

Bake the Cheesecake

Place the baking pan filled with the cheesecake batter onto a larger baking tray. Pour hot water into the tray until it reaches about 1-2 centimeters around the pan.

Bake in a preheated oven at 120 degrees Celsius (248 degrees Fahrenheit) for about 50 minutes. Then, increase the temperature to 145 degrees Celsius (293 degrees Fahrenheit) and bake for an additional 20-30 minutes until a light golden crust forms.

Step 7

Cool the Cheesecake

Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake sit in the closed oven for about 15 minutes. After this time, crack open the oven door and let the cheesecake cool for another 10 minutes.

It's normal for the cheesecake to sink a little after cooling. Enjoy!

Servings

Serving this dreamy cheesecake really gives your gathering a touch of elegance! Slice it into generous wedges and serve plain for a classic experience. If you want to elevate your dessert, try adding a drizzle of fresh fruit puree on top. 🍓

Picture this: a lovely picnic in the park with family and friends, where everyone raves about your cheesecake. Pair it with some fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast in flavors. 🍦

For those extra sweet moments, consider topping each slice with whipped cream and a sprinkle of powdered sugar or even a few mint leaves for a pop of color! 🌿

Equipment

Baking Pan (18 cm diameter)

Make sure to use a high-quality, non-stick baking pan for easy removal of the cheesecake after baking. Lining the bottom and sides with parchment paper helps prevent sticking.

Mixing Bowls

You will need a heatproof bowl for mixing the cheese, milk, and butter together. A large bowl for the egg whites is also essential for easy whipping!

We recommend:
Whisk or Electric Mixer

For beginners, a simple whisk will work well, but an electric mixer can save time and energy when whipping egg whites into stiff peaks.

We recommend:
Steam Tray

This helps create a moisture-filled environment, ensuring your cheesecake remains fluffy and smooth as it bakes. You can simply use a larger baking tray filled with water!

Variations

**Gluten-Free Option:** Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour mix in the same amount to enjoy this treat without the gluten! 🌾

**Vegan Alternative:** Replace the cream cheese with a block of silken tofu blended until smooth, use plant-based milk, and substitute eggs with flax eggs. You can make flax eggs by mixing one tablespoon of flaxseed meal with three tablespoons of water and letting it sit until it thickens. 🥑

Faq

  • What if my cheesecake cracks?

    Cracks typically happen if the temperature is too high or there’s not enough moisture in the oven. Ensure you're in a water bath and maintaining the correct temperature!

  • How do I know when my cheesecake is done?

    Your cheesecake should be slightly jiggly in the middle when you remove it from the oven. It will set as it cools!

  • How can I get a taller cheesecake?

  • Can I add flavors or mix-ins to my cheesecake?

  • What should I do with leftovers?

  • Does it freeze well?

Nutrition facts

Japanese Cotton Cheesecake Recipe for Beginners
Recipe Yield:8 servings
Calories:Approximately 280-320 calories per serving
Calories (Min - Max):280 - 320
Total Fat:22g
Saturated Fat:12g
Protein:7g
Total Carbohydrate:22g
Total Sugars:14g