Japanese souffle cheesecake is renowned for its light, airy texture and delicate flavor. It’s a masterpiece that requires patience and precision, but the reward is truly worth it.
Ingredients:
- For the Cheesecake:
- 200g cream cheese, softened
- 50g unsalted butter, softened
- 60g granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs, separated
- 60g cake flour, sifted
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- For the Water Bath:
- Boiling water
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pan:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
- Cream the Cheese and Butter:
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Add Sugar and Egg Yolks:
- Gradually beat in the sugar, then add the egg yolks one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Incorporate Flour:
- Gently fold in the sifted flour and salt.
- Whip the Egg Whites:
- In a clean, dry bowl, whip the egg whites until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add the remaining sugar, one tablespoon at a time, and continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
- Combine Mixtures:
- Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the cheese mixture in three additions, being careful not to deflate the egg whites.
- Bake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Place the pan in a larger baking pan and fill the larger pan with boiling water, creating a water bath.
- Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Cool and Chill:
- Let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 10-15 minutes before removing it from the water bath.
- Let it cool completely on a wire rack, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
Tips for Perfect Souffle Cheesecake:
- Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh, high-quality ingredients will make a significant difference in the taste and texture of your cheesecake.
- Don’t overmix: Overmixing can lead to a dense and tough cheesecake.
- Maintain oven temperature: A consistent oven temperature is crucial for a successful bake.
- Don’t open the oven door during baking: Opening the oven door can cause the cheesecake to deflate.
- Let it cool gradually: Rushing the cooling process can also lead to a deflated cheesecake.
Enjoy this delicate and heavenly dessert!