Print

Fluffy Japanese Cotton Cheesecake Cupcakes Recipe

4.5 from 101 reviews

Fluffy Japanese Cotton Cheesecake Cupcakes offer a light and airy twist on traditional cheesecake, combining the creamy richness of cream cheese with a delicate, souffle-like texture. These delightful cupcakes are perfect for dessert lovers craving a soft, melt-in-your-mouth treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Cheesecake Batter

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 4 tbsp milk
  • 3 large eggs, separated
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp cornstarch
  • 1/8 tsp salt

Topping

  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 320°F (160°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners to prevent sticking and for easy removal of cupcakes after baking.
  2. Mix Cream Cheese and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese together with granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps, creating a creamy base for the batter.
  3. Add Milk, Egg Yolks, and Vanilla: Incorporate the milk, egg yolks, and vanilla extract into the cream cheese mixture, mixing thoroughly to combine these ingredients evenly.
  4. Sift and Add Dry Ingredients: Sift the all-purpose flour and cornstarch into the wet mixture. Stir carefully until the batter becomes smooth and homogenous without overmixing.
  5. Whip Egg Whites: In a separate clean bowl, beat the egg whites with the salt until soft peaks form. Gradually add granulated sugar while continuing to beat to stiff peaks, creating a fluffy meringue.
  6. Fold Meringue into Batter: Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the cream cheese mixture in three separate additions. Use a spatula to incorporate the meringue without deflating the airiness.
  7. Fill and Bake: Spoon the batter into the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 30 minutes, or until the tops turn golden and are set.
  8. Cool and Serve: Allow the cupcakes to cool completely in the tin. Once cooled, dust the tops with powdered sugar before serving for a delicate sweetness and attractive presentation.

Notes

  • The gentle folding of egg whites preserves the fluffy texture unique to Japanese cotton cheesecake.
  • Make sure cream cheese is well softened to avoid lumps in the batter.
  • Use fresh eggs for best volume when whipping the egg whites.
  • If you want a more pronounced vanilla flavor, a splash of vanilla bean paste can be used instead of extract.
  • These cupcakes are best enjoyed the same day for optimal fluffiness but can be refrigerated for up to 2 days.
  • For an extra moist texture, try adding a tablespoon of lemon juice or zest to the batter.

Keywords: Japanese cheesecake, cotton cheesecake, fluffy cupcakes, cream cheese dessert, light cheesecake cupcakes