Secrets to Baking the Perfect Japanese Cheesecake Every Time

Japanese cheesecake is one of those desserts that’s in the dessert lover’s hall of fame. It’s so light and airy it’s like a showstopper. But if you’ve ever tried to make one yourself you’ve probably hit a few roadblocks. Unlike traditional cheesecakes Japanese cheesecake requires technique and attention to detail to get the right balance of fluffiness and flavor.

It is not the ingredients that is the secret to a perfect Japanese cheesecake, it is the technique. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner there are a few tricks that can make all the difference.

From whipping the egg whites to the right consistency to baking the cheesecake in the right environment every little step counts.

How To Bake A Delicious Japanese Cheesecake

Japanese cheesecake is a lovely dessert that combines the richness of cheesecake with the fluffiness of a soufflé. It’s not as dense as traditional cheesecakes and melts in your mouth.

Ingredients:

• 250g cream cheese (softened)
• 100g milk
• 60g unsalted butter
• 4 large eggs
• 140g sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 50g all-purpose flour
• 20g cornstarch
• ½ tsp cream of tartar
• A pinch of salt
• 200 ml water (for the water bath)

Method:

1. Preheat the oven to 160°C (320°F) and line a 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
2. In a saucepan, melt the cream cheese, butter and milk over low heat. Stir to combine and remove from heat once smooth.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract.
4. Sift the flour and cornstarch into the egg mixture, and fold gently.
5. Add the melted cream cheese mixture into the batter, fold carefully.
6. Beat the egg whites with the cream of tartar and salt until stiff peaks. Fold into the batter.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and tap to release air bubbles.
8. Place the cake pan in a larger baking dish with 200 ml of water (water bath) and bake for 50-60 minutes.
9. Once done, turn off the oven and let it sit for 15 minutes. Then, cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 4 hours before serving.

Tips and Tricks to Baking the Perfect Japanese Cheesecake Every Time

1. Room Temperature Ingredients Are Essential

Using room temperature ingredients is critical to making a perfect Japanese cheesecake. This ensures the cream cheese, eggs and butter mix together smoothly and no lumps will form. Cold ingredients will cause the mixture to seize and form curds which will affect the texture of your cake.

2. Folding Is Key

When incorporating the whipped egg whites into the batter, folding is the key to keeping the cake airy. Use a spatula and fold gently in a figure eight motion, don’t deflate the meringue. If you stir too hard the air in the batter will escape and the cake will be denser.

3. Right Oven Temperature

Baking a Japanese cheesecake is all about balance of heat. Too high and the cake will rise too fast and collapse, too low and it will be undercooked. Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F) and bake the cheesecake in a water bath.

4. Water Bath

Baking your cheesecake in a water bath is crucial for a smooth texture. The water around the pan helps regulate the temperature so the cake doesn’t overcook or crack. Place the cake pan in a larger pan filled with hot water that comes about halfway up the sides of the cake pan.

5. Toothpick

To check if your Japanese cheesecake is done, insert a toothpick or skewer into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, it’s done. If it’s wet or has batter consistency, bake for a few more minutes and check again.

6. Cool Slowly To Prevent Cracking

Let the cheesecake cool slowly in the oven with the door slightly ajar. This prevents sudden temperature changes that can cause cracks on the surface. Once it has cooled for 15 minutes in the oven, remove it and let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating.

7. Pan Preparation

Line your cake pan with parchment paper so the cake releases easily once cooled. Also wrap the outside of the pan with aluminum foil before placing in the water bath so water doesn’t get into the cake.

8. Let It Rest

Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results. This allows the flavors to fully develop and the texture to set so it’s easier to slice and serve. A chilled cheesecake will have a smoother and creamier texture.