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A quick, no‑bake Japanese‑style cheesecake made with thick yogurt, buttery caramel and coconut‑flavored biscuits. Set it overnight for a light, creamy breakfast or dessert that’s become a viral sensation on social media.
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Everything you need to know about this recipe
Japanese no‑bake cheesecake, often called "Soufflé Cheesecake," emerged in the 1990s as a lighter alternative to dense Western cheesecakes, emphasizing a fluffy, airy texture that aligns with Japan’s preference for subtle sweetness.
In Osaka, a denser version using cream cheese is popular, while in Tokyo many bakers incorporate matcha or yuzu for a citrusy twist; the viral yogurt‑biscuit version is a modern, internet‑driven adaptation.
It is typically served chilled, sliced into small squares, and enjoyed with a cup of green tea; sometimes a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of fruit coulis is added for extra flavor.
Japanese cheesecake is a popular treat for tea‑time gatherings, birthday celebrations, and seasonal festivals such as Cherry Blossom (Hanami) picnics, where its light texture complements other delicate sweets.
This version swaps cream cheese for thick Greek yogurt, uses coconut‑flavored biscuits and butter caramel for the crust, and requires no baking, making it quicker to prepare and giving it a distinct tropical flavor profile.
Common errors include over‑crushing the biscuits (making the crust too fine), not pressing the crust firmly enough, and insufficient chilling time, which can result in a soft or runny cheesecake.
Butter caramel adds sweetness and a glossy texture that binds the biscuit crumbs better than plain melted butter, creating a richer flavor that complements the tangy yogurt filling.
Yes, you can prepare it up to three days ahead; keep it covered in the refrigerator. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze; thaw in the fridge before serving.
The crust should be firm and golden‑brown from the caramel, while the yogurt filling should be smooth, slightly wobbly when the pan is shaken, and set to a custard‑like consistency after chilling.
After the 12‑hour chill, the cheesecake should hold its shape when the pan is gently lifted; a light tap on the surface should not cause it to wobble.
The YouTube channel Nina • Food & WIEIAD focuses on quick, trendy, and experimental recipes that blend Asian flavors with Western techniques, often featuring viral food trends and easy‑to‑make home‑cooking videos.
Nina • Food & WIEIAD emphasizes minimalist ingredient lists, shortcuts like using yogurt instead of cream cheese, and a playful presentation style, making Japanese‑inspired desserts more accessible to everyday home cooks compared to more traditional, technique‑heavy channels.
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