Indulge in the Fluffy Delight of Japanese Cheesecake 🍰✨
Japanese cheesecake, also known as cotton cheesecake, is a delightful confection that combines the rich creaminess of traditional cheesecake with the light, airy texture of sponge cake. With its ethereal fluffiness and melt-in-your-mouth goodness, Japanese cheesecake is a true treat for the senses. Let’s embark on a journey to create this heavenly dessert together!
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup (120ml) milk
- 4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened
- 7 tablespoons (100g) unsalted butter
- 6 large eggs, separated
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup (60g) cake flour
- 2 tablespoons (15g) cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- Pinch of salt
Directions:
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 320°F (160°C). Grease and line the bottom and sides of an 8-inch (20cm) round cake pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal later.
- Prepare Milk Mixture:
- In a small saucepan, heat the milk, cream cheese, and unsalted butter over low heat until melted and smooth. Once combined, remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
- Whisk Egg Yolks:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and granulated sugar until they become pale and creamy in texture.
- Incorporate Flavorings:
- Add the lemon juice and vanilla extract to the egg yolk mixture, whisking until well combined.
- Combine Wet Ingredients:
- Gradually whisk the milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture until smooth and well incorporated.
- Sift Dry Ingredients:
- Sift in the cake flour and cornstarch into the batter and gently fold until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Beat Egg Whites:
- In another clean mixing bowl, beat the egg whites with cream of tartar and salt until stiff peaks form, creating a light and fluffy meringue.
- Incorporate Egg Whites:
- Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the batter in three additions until no white streaks remain, ensuring to maintain the airy texture.
- Pour and Bake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Place the cake pan into a larger baking pan, and pour hot water into the larger pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the cake pan.
- Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set, creating a delicate yet firm texture.
- Cool Gradually:
- Turn off the oven and leave the cake inside with the oven door slightly ajar for 1 hour to allow it to cool gradually, preventing cracks on the surface.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once cooled completely, remove the cake from the oven and slice into portions. Each bite will transport you to cloud-like bliss!
Conclusion:
With its heavenly texture and delicate flavor, Japanese cheesecake is a dessert that never fails to impress. From its fluffy, cloud-like appearance to its melt-in-your-mouth goodness, every bite of this delightful treat is a taste of pure indulgence. Whether enjoyed on its own or with a cup of tea, Japanese cheesecake is sure to elevate any occasion with its irresistible charm. So why wait? Treat yourself to the delightful experience of Japanese cheesecake today!