When it comes to cheesecake, most of us are familiar with the rich, dense, and creamy American-style version. But have you ever heard of Japanese cotton cheesecake?

This delightful dessert is a fluffy, light twist on the classic cheesecake, often described as a cross between a sponge cake and a cheesecake. Its airy texture and mild flavor make it a perfect treat for those who find traditional cheesecakes a bit too heavy.

Ingredients

- 250g cream cheese

- 50g unsalted butter

- 100g granulated sugar

- 3 large eggs, separated

- 1 tsp vanilla extract

- 100ml milk

- 60g all-purpose flour

- 20g cornstarch

- A pinch of salt

- Powdered sugar for dusting

Time

- Preparation Time: 20 minutes

- Cooking Time: 60 minutes

- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Step-By-Step Recipe

1. Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 160°C (320°F). Prepare a 9-inch round cake pan by lining it with parchment paper and greasing the sides.

2. Cream Cheese Mixture: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add the granulated sugar and continue to beat until well combined.

3. Incorporate Eggs: Beat in the egg yolks one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add the vanilla extract.

4. Combine Dry Ingredients: Sift the flour and cornstarch together. Gradually fold them into the cream cheese mixture.

5. Add Milk: Slowly stir in the milk until the batter is smooth.

6. Whip Egg Whites: In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the egg whites into the cream cheese batter in thirds, being careful not to deflate the mixture.

7. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Place the pan into a larger baking dish filled with hot water (a water bath) and bake for 60 minutes, or until the cake is set and lightly golden.

8. Cool and Serve: Let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar for 30 minutes. Then, remove it from the oven, let it cool completely, and dust it with powdered sugar before serving.

Calories

This Japanese cotton cheesecake is lighter than its American counterpart, but still indulgent. Each slice contains approximately 250 calories, depending on the size and ingredients used.

Perfect Toppings

While Japanese cotton cheesecake is delicious on its own, the right toppings can elevate it to a whole new level. Fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries add a pop of color and a sweet-tart contrast. A drizzle of honey or maple syrup can introduce a rich sweetness, while a dollop of whipped cream adds an extra layer of indulgence. If you're feeling adventurous, try a sprinkle of matcha powder or a spoonful of tangy fruit compote for a uniquely Asian twist!

So, which cheesecake are you going to opt for now? The traditional dense style or this airy, cloud-like creation? Give it a try and let your taste buds decide!