Japanese Cotton Cheesecake Recipe

Ingredients:

1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk

4 oz (113g) cream cheese

7 tablespoons (100g) unsalted butter

8 egg yolks

1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour

1/2 cup (60g) cornstarch

13 large egg whites

2/3 cup (133g) granulated sugar

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 320°F (160°C). Prepare a 9-inch (23 cm) round cake pan by lining the bottom with parchment paper and greasing the sides.

Melt the ingredients:

Combine milk, cream cheese, and butter in a large heatproof bowl. Place over a pot of simmering water (double boiler method) and melt them together, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat.

Add the egg yolks:

Once the mixture has cooled slightly, whisk in the egg yolks until fully integrated.

Mix the dry ingredients:

Sift flour and cornstarch into the cream cheese mixture and whisk until smooth.

Whip the egg whites:

In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until foamy. Gradually add sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form. This is crucial for the cake’s fluffiness.

Combine the mixtures:

Gently fold one-third of the egg whites into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula until mostly combined. Repeat with remaining egg whites in two more additions until the mixture is homogeneous.

Bake the cake:

Pour the batter into the prepared pan. To prevent the cake from drying out, place the cake pan into a larger baking dish filled halfway with hot water (water bath method).

Bake for 70-80 minutes or until set and golden brown on top.

Cool the cake:

Turn off the oven and leave the door slightly ajar, letting the cake cool inside the oven for about 1 hour to prevent it from collapsing.

Chill:

Remove the cake from the oven, and once cool enough to handle, refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving. This helps the cheesecake set properly.

Serve:

Serve chilled with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream if desired.

Japanese Cotton Cheesecake is a delight for those who love a lighter alternative to the dense, creamy texture of traditional cheesecakes. Enjoy your baking adventure!