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Japanese Cotton Cheesecake Cupcakes Recipe

5 from 93 reviews

These Japanese Cotton Cheesecake Cupcakes are delightfully light and fluffy, combining the rich creaminess of cheesecake with a soft, airy texture reminiscent of sponge cake. Perfectly balanced with a hint of lemon and vanilla, these cupcakes are an elegant treat that melts in your mouth with every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Cheesecake Mixture

  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs, separated
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • A pinch of salt

For Garnish

  • Powdered sugar, for dusting
  • Whipped cream or fresh berries

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 320°F (160°C) and line a cupcake pan with paper liners to prepare for baking.
  2. Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a medium saucepan over low heat, gently combine softened cream cheese, butter, and milk. Stir until smooth and melted, then remove from heat and let cool slightly. In a large bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup granulated sugar and egg yolks until blended. Add the cream cheese mixture, vanilla extract, lemon juice, flour, cornstarch, and salt. Mix until smooth and homogeneous.
  3. Whip the Egg Whites: In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites using an electric mixer until foamy. Gradually add remaining sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form, ensuring they are firm and glossy.
  4. Fold the Mixtures Together: Gently fold one-third of the whipped egg whites into the cream cheese mixture to lighten it. Then fold in the remaining egg whites carefully until just combined, preserving the airy texture.
  5. Fill the Cupcake Liners: Spoon the batter evenly into the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full to allow for rising.
  6. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until cupcakes are puffed, lightly golden on top, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  7. Cool and Serve: Let cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar and optionally garnish with whipped cream or fresh berries before serving.

Notes

  • Ensure the cream cheese mixture is slightly cooled before combining with the egg yolks to prevent curdling.
  • Be gentle when folding egg whites into the batter to keep the cupcakes fluffy and airy.
  • Filling the cupcake liners two-thirds full allows proper rising without overflow.
  • These cupcakes are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • For best results, use room temperature ingredients to ensure smooth batter consistency.

Keywords: Japanese Cotton Cheesecake, Cheesecake Cupcakes, Light Cheesecake, Fluffy Cheesecake, Japanese Dessert