
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases made through links on this page. This helps support our site at no extra cost to you. Clicking on ingredient or equipment links will take you to amazon.com where you can purchase these items.
A light, fluffy Japanese cotton cheesecake that feels like eating a cloud. This recipe walks you through the delicate steps of creating a smooth batter, folding in whipped egg whites, and baking with a water bath for a perfectly airy texture.
Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist
Everything you need to know about this recipe
Japanese cotton cheesecake, also known as "soufflé cheesecake," was created in the 1960s by a Japanese chef who blended Western cheesecake techniques with Japanese soufflé methods, resulting in a light, airy cake that reflects Japan’s love for delicate textures.
While the classic version is found nationwide, some regions add matcha powder for a green tea flavor or incorporate yuzu zest for a citrus twist, showcasing local ingredients while keeping the fluffy texture.
It is typically served chilled, sliced into small wedges, and enjoyed with a cup of green tea. Occasionally a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of sweetened condensed milk is added for extra sweetness.
The cake is popular at tea parties, birthdays, and seasonal festivals such as cherry‑blossom viewing (hanami) because its light texture pairs well with the delicate atmosphere of these events.
Its hallmark is the ultra‑fluffy, soufflé‑like crumb achieved by folding whipped egg whites into a cream cheese batter and baking in a water bath, which sets it apart from denser, richer Japanese cheesecakes like "cheesecake with sweet red bean paste."
Authentic ingredients include cream cheese, unsalted butter, cake flour, cornstarch, eggs, sugar, and a touch of cream of tartar. Substitutes can be Neufchatel for cream cheese, all‑purpose flour (use slightly less), or lemon juice in place of cream of tartar.
It pairs nicely with a cup of matcha tea, a light fruit compote, or a side of sweet red bean paste, balancing the cake’s mild sweetness with complementary flavors.
Common errors include over‑mixing after folding, letting any yolk touch the egg whites, opening the oven during the high‑heat stage, and skipping the water bath, all of which can cause a dense texture or cracks.
The initial high temperature quickly sets the outer structure, while the lower temperature finishes cooking gently, preserving the airy interior and preventing the cake from collapsing or cracking.
Yes, bake the cake a day ahead, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. Bring it to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
The top should be lightly golden with a smooth, slightly domed surface. When gently shaken, the center will wobble a little, indicating the interior is still soft and fluffy.
The News with Kamera Jr. focuses on entertaining cooking tutorials that blend pop‑culture references with clear, step‑by‑step instructions, often highlighting challenging recipes like Japanese cotton cheesecake.
Kamera Jr. emphasizes the science behind techniques—such as the importance of folding and water‑bath baking—while keeping a light‑hearted, news‑style commentary, making complex Japanese desserts feel accessible to home bakers.
The channel is also popular for its tutorials on matcha tiramisu, mochi ice cream, and ramen broth basics, showcasing a range of traditional and modern Japanese dishes.
Similar recipes converted from YouTube cooking videos

A quick and satisfying ramen bowl featuring boiled eggs, sliced Andouille sausage, and a buttery garlic sauce made from the ramen seasoning packets. Perfect for a fast dinner that feels a step up from ordinary instant ramen.

A tall, fluffy, and airy Japanese-style fried cheesecake baked in a water bath. This recipe yields a light, soufflé‑like texture with a subtle lemon aroma, perfect for a weekend baking project.

Cookies au chocolat croustillants et beurrés, faciles à préparer et parfaits pour une collation rapide. La pâte est refroidie et découpée pour obtenir des biscuits uniformes qui fondent dans la bouche. Donne environ 7 gros biscuits.

Traditional Japanese‑style sausages made from carefully trimmed pork, back‑fat, and a simple salt‑pepper‑sugar seasoning. Five variations are prepared: classic plain, herb‑infused Arabiki, citrus‑bright Natsumikan rosemary, vibrant green spinach, and spicy chorizo. The process includes brining, ice‑broth emulsification, precise grinding, stuffing into natural casings, smoking, and cooling – all demonstrated by Cooking with Dog.

Crispy pork cutlets coated in seasoned panko, paired with a sweet‑tangy tonkatsu sauce, quick‑pickled cucumbers and fresh herbs, all sandwiched between soft milk‑bread slices. A Japanese‑inspired sandwich that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.

Japanese chicken ramen with a clear and flavorful broth, scallion-infused oil, homemade tare sauce and marinated ajitama egg. Quick version for a comforting meal at home.