Fluffy Japanese Cotton Cheesecake Cupcakes

Introduction:
These Japanese Cotton Cheesecake Cupcakes are light, fluffy, and melt in your mouth! Perfectly portioned, they combine the richness of cheesecake with the airiness of a soufflé. These cupcakes are an excellent treat for tea time, special occasions, or when you’re craving a dessert that’s not overly sweet but utterly satisfying.

Recipe:

Ingredients:

For the Cheesecake Batter:

• 4 oz (120g) cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup (60ml) whole milk
• 1/4 cup (50g) unsalted butter
• 3 large eggs, separated
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar (for egg whites)
• 2 tbsp (25g) granulated sugar (for yolks mixture)
• 1/2 cup (65g) cake flour (or sifted all-purpose flour)
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1/4 tsp cream of tartar or lemon juice

Optional Topping:

• Powdered sugar or fruit preserves

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Batter:
   • Preheat the oven to 320°F (160°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
   • In a heatproof bowl, melt cream cheese, milk, and butter over a double boiler or in the microwave. Whisk until smooth.
   • Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Add the egg yolks and mix well. Sift in cake flour and cornstarch, then whisk until combined and smooth.
2. Whip the Egg Whites:
   • In a clean bowl, beat egg whites with cream of tartar or lemon juice until frothy. Gradually add sugar and whip until stiff peaks form.
3. Combine:
   • Fold one-third of the egg whites into the cream cheese mixture to lighten it. Gently fold in the remaining egg whites in two additions, taking care not to deflate the batter.
4. Bake:
   • Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling them about 80% full.
   • Place the muffin tin in a larger baking tray. Add hot water to the larger tray to create a water bath.
   • Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the tops are golden and set.
5. Cool:
   • Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Serve:
   • Enjoy as-is, or dust with powdered sugar, or serve with fruit preserves for added flavor.

These light and airy cupcakes are a perfect dessert for those who love a delicate yet flavorful treat!