Japanese cheesecake has become one of the most viral desserts on the internet. Videos, tutorials and recipes dedicated to Japanese cheesecake have flooded social media platforms such as Instagram, TikTok and YouTube, winning over millions of cooking enthusiasts. The reason is simple: this cake surprises with its incredible softness and its fluffy, wobbly appearance, which makes it instantly recognisable.
Also known as Japanese cotton cheesecake or cotton cake, this particular Japanese cake is famous for its ultra-light texture, almost like a cloud. Halfway between a traditional cheesecake and a soufflé, it stands out for its airy batter, which makes it much more delicate than Western versions.
Precisely because of its lightness, it is perfect for enjoying at various times of the day: from breakfast to afternoon tea, right through to after dinner. In Japanese cafés, it is often served with a cup of coffee, creating a balanced pairing between the sweetness of the Japanese cheesecake and the intense aroma of the coffee.
Japanese cheesecake recipe
Making a Japanese cheesecake requires just a few ingredients, but you need to pay close attention to the steps. The result will be a light, tall and delicate cake.
Ingredients
- 250 g cream cheese (such as Philadelphia)
- 50 g butter
- 100 ml milk
- 60 g flour
- 20 g cornflour
- 6 eggs
- 120 g sugar
- juice of half a lemon
- a pinch of salt
- icing sugar (optional)
This recipe makes the perfect cotton cake: light, tall and incredibly delicate.
Preparation: how to make Japanese cheesecake
Making this Japanese cake involves a few more steps than a traditional cheesecake, but the end result is well worth the effort.
To begin, melt the cream cheese together with the butter and milk in a bain-marie, stirring gently until you have a smooth, even mixture.
Once the mixture has cooled, add the egg yolks one at a time, followed by the sifted flour and cornflour. Mix thoroughly until the batter is free of lumps.
In a separate bowl, whisk the egg whites with the lemon juice and a pinch of salt. When they start to become frothy, add the sugar a little at a time until you have a glossy, stiff meringue.
Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the mixture, stirring from the bottom upwards to maintain the light, fluffy texture typical of Japanese cheesecake.
Pour the mixture into a tin lined with baking paper and bake in a bain-marie at around 160°C for about 60 minutes.
Once cooked, leave the cake to cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar to prevent it from collapsing.
How to store Japanese cheesecake
Once ready, Japanese cheesecake can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container or covered with cling film.
So how long does a cheesecake last in the fridge? It generally keeps for around 3 or 4 days, retaining its soft texture.
Before serving, it is advisable to leave it at room temperature for a few minutes to bring out its flavour and softness.
Japanese cheesecake and coffee: a perfect pairing
Japanese cotton cheesecake is a dessert that pairs particularly well with coffee. Its soft, light texture creates the perfect contrast to the intense aroma of espresso, making every bite even more harmonious.
It is no coincidence that in Japanese coffee shops, Japanese cheesecake is often served alongside a freshly brewed cup of coffee. Its delicate flavour enhances the aromatic notes of the coffee without overpowering its taste.
To achieve a truly perfect result at home, it is important to use quality equipment. With our coffee machines, you can prepare a creamy, aromatic espresso, ideal to enjoy alongside a slice of freshly baked Japanese cheesecake.
A simple yet irresistible combination, perfect for a sweet break or to round off a lunch with a light dessert accompanied by coffee.
Variations on Japanese cheesecake
Although the original recipe for Japanese cheesecake is already perfect in its simplicity, there are several popular variations.
One of the most popular is the Japanese cotton cheesecake flavoured with matcha tea, which gives the cake a delicate green colour and a slightly grassy flavour.
Other versions include the addition of lemon zest or vanilla, ingredients that make it even more fragrant.
A light dessert that wins everyone over
Some desserts impress with their richness, whilst others win you over with their lightness. Japanese cheesecake definitely falls into the latter category: a soft, delicate and surprising dessert that manages to transform just a few ingredients into something special.
Its soft, airy texture makes it perfect for those looking for a balanced dessert, capable of satisfying a craving for something tasty without being too heavy. This is precisely why it is ideal for those moments of respite, when you allow yourself a few minutes to slow down and enjoy a little treat.
