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What to know about the 'Japanese cheesecake' viral food trend

Recipe by Good Morning America

A viral, ultra‑easy dessert inspired by Japanese cheesecake that uses only Greek yogurt and crushed cookies. No oven, no baking powder—just mix, press, and chill overnight for a creamy, mousse‑like treat that tastes like real cheesecake.

EasyJapaneseServes 6

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Source Video
12h 8m
Prep
10m
Cook
1h 29m
Cleanup
13h 47m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$7.64
Total cost
$1.27
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Crushing the cookies to fine crumbs
  • Mixing yogurt and crumbs until fully combined
  • Applying weight to compress the mixture
  • Refrigerating overnight without disturbance

Safety Warnings

  • Use fresh Greek yogurt and keep it refrigerated at all times.
  • Clean all surfaces and utensils after handling raw dairy to avoid cross‑contamination.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of Japanese cheesecake in Japanese cuisine?

A

Japanese cheesecake, also known as "soufflé cheesecake," originated in Japan in the 1980s and blends the lightness of a soufflé with the richness of a traditional cheesecake, creating a fluffy, melt‑in‑your‑mouth texture that has become a beloved dessert in Japanese cafés.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of Japanese cheesecake in Japan?

A

In Japan, the classic version uses cream cheese, butter, and a meringue base, while some regions add matcha powder, yuzu zest, or sweet red bean paste for local flavor twists, but the core technique of a light, baked soufflé remains consistent.

cultural
Q

How is Japanese cheesecake traditionally served in Japan?

A

It is typically served chilled, sliced into small squares, and enjoyed plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar; cafés often pair it with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is Japanese cheesecake traditionally associated with in Japanese culture?

A

Japanese cheesecake is a popular treat for tea time, birthday celebrations, and seasonal festivals because its light texture feels refreshing and it can be easily portioned for sharing.

cultural
Q

What other Japanese desserts pair well with Japanese cheesecake?

A

Matcha ice cream, dorayaki pancakes, or a bowl of sweet red bean soup complement the subtle sweetness and airy texture of Japanese cheesecake, creating a balanced dessert spread.

cultural
Q

What makes this two‑ingredient viral Japanese cheesecake special compared to the traditional baked version?

A

The viral version skips eggs, cream cheese, and baking entirely, using Greek yogurt for creaminess and crushed cookies for structure, resulting in a super‑quick, high‑protein, no‑bake dessert that still mimics the fluffy mouthfeel of the classic soufflé cheesecake.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making this two‑ingredient Japanese cheesecake?

A

Common errors include not crushing the cookies finely enough, failing to press the mixture with a weight, and not allowing a full overnight chill, all of which can lead to a loose or grainy texture.

technical
Q

Why does this recipe use a weight instead of baking to set the cheesecake?

A

The weight compresses the yogurt‑cookie mixture, expelling excess air and helping the crumbs bind together, which replicates the dense yet airy texture achieved by baking a traditional soufflé cheesecake.

technical
Q

How do I know when the cheesecake is done and ready to eat?

A

After at least 8‑12 hours in the refrigerator, the cheesecake should feel firm to the touch, hold its shape when the weight is removed, and have a smooth, creamy surface—these are signs it is fully set.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Good Morning America specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Good Morning America features lifestyle segments, including quick‑fire cooking demos, food trends, and family‑friendly recipes presented by contributors like Lori Bergamato, aiming to bring approachable, everyday cooking to a broad audience.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Good Morning America’s approach to viral food trends differ from other cooking channels?

A

Good Morning America focuses on short, relatable demonstrations that fit into a busy morning routine, often testing trends with minimal ingredients and emphasizing practicality, whereas many cooking channels may provide more in‑depth technique or gourmet variations.

channel

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