Japanese Cotton Cheesecake

What is Japanese Cheesecake?

Japanese Cotton Cheesecake is a delightful fusion of the rich and creamy texture of traditional cheesecake with the light, fluffy consistency of a soufflé. Often called "cotton" cheesecake because of its airy, melt-in-your-mouth texture, this dessert has gained worldwide popularity for its delicate, cloud-like experience.

Originating in Japan, this cheesecake variation is less sweet than its American counterpart and puts a unique spin on the classic dessert. Made with cream cheese, eggs, sugar, and other basic ingredients, the Japanese Cotton Cheesecake recipe incorporates whipped egg whites into the batter, giving it its signature light and fluffy texture.

Ingredients for Japanese Cotton Cheesecake

To make this fabulous dessert, you'll need the following ingredients:

• 200g cream cheese
• 50g unsalted butter
• 80g granulated sugar
• 5 large eggs, separated
• 48g all-purpose flour
• 16g cornstarch
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 96ml whole milk
• 3/4 tbsp lemon juice
• 3/4 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp cream of tartar

Substitutes for Uncommon Ingredients

• Cream of tartar: Use 1/2 tsp lemon juice or vinegar as a substitute.

Let's Get Cooking: A Step-by-Step Guide

Prepare the Batter

1. Melt cream cheese and butter in a microwave stirring after every 30-second burst. Once melted, let it cool down.
2. Sieve in the flour, cornstarch, and salt, then mix with the cream cheese mixture, followed by milk, egg yolks, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix well to combine.
3. In another bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar until foamy. Gradually add sugar, and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
4. Gently fold the egg white mixture into the cream cheese mixture in three parts, being careful not to deflate the whites.

Baking the Cheesecake

1. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and tap it gently on the counter to release any air bubbles.
2. Place the pan in a larger baking dish and fill it with hot water halfway up the sides of the pan. This water bath will help ensure even cooking.
3. Bake for 1 hour and 10 minutes on a pre-heated oven at 160C or 320F, or until the top is golden brown and the cake has set.
4. Remove from the oven, let it cool completely, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Cotton Cheesecake

• Always measure ingredients accurately using a food scale rather than using measuring cups.
• Ensure the bowl used for beating egg whites is clean and dry.
• Use room temperature ingredients to ensure a smooth batter.
• Sift dry ingredients to avoid lumps.
• Be gentle when folding egg whites to avoid deflating the batter.
• Don't open the oven door during baking to prevent sudden temperature changes.

Side Dishes to Complement

Pair your cheesecake with a refreshing green tea or a cup of aromatic coffee. For those looking to elevate the dessert experience, consider serving with a scoop of matcha or vanilla ice cream.

Nutritional Breakdown

For those mindful of their dietary intake, here's a quick glance at the nutritional content of our fluffy Japanese Cotton Cheesecake for each 100g:

Calories: 350 kcal per serving Carbohydrates: 25g Sugars: 18g Protein: 8g Total Fat: 25g Saturated Fat: 15g Unsaturated Fat: 8g Trans Fat: 0g Cholesterol: 150mg Sodium: 200mg

Remember, these values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods. It's always a good idea to consult with a nutritionist or use a detailed nutrition calculator if you have specific dietary concerns.

FAQ: Your Cotton Cheesecake Questions Answered

How do I prevent my Japanese Cotton Cheesecake from deflating?

To prevent deflation, avoid opening the oven door during baking, and let the cheesecake cool down gradually after baking. Also, be sure you whip the eggs only until stiff peaks and not any further.

Can I make this cheesecake gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your cornstarch is gluten-free.

Can I use an electric mixer for the batter?

Yes, you can use an electric mixer, but be careful not to overmix the batter to prevent deflating the egg whites.

Can I add fruit or other toppings to my Japanese Cotton Cheesecake?

Absolutely! You can add fresh fruit, a fruit compote, or even chocolate shavings as a topping for your cheesecake.

How long does this cheesecake last in the refrigerator?

You can store your Japanese Cotton Cheesecake in the refrigerator for up to 5 days in an airtight container.

How is Japanese Cheesecake different from regular cheesecake?

Japanese Cheesecake is lighter due to the inclusion of beaten egg whites and has no crust. Its texture is a blend of cheesecake and sponge cake.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

While cream cheese is ideal, mascarpone or ricotta can be used, but the flavor will vary.

Why did my cheesecake crack?

High temperatures or the absence of a water bath can cause cracks. The water bath ensures even baking and moisture.

How can I achieve the perfect fluffiness?

The key lies in the egg whites. Ensure they're beaten to the perfect soft-medium peak stage for an airy cheesecake.