How to Make Japanese Cotton Cheesecake Cupcakes

1. Prepare your setup

• Preheat oven to 150°C (302°F).

• Line a muffin tray with tall cupcake liners (the sides help the cakes rise beautifully).

• Prepare a water bath by placing the muffin tray inside a larger baking pan.

2. Make the cream cheese mixture

1. In a heatproof bowl, combine cream cheese, butter, and milk.

2. Warm over a simmering pot of water until smooth and creamy.

3. Remove from heat and whisk in egg yolks, one at a time.

4. Sift in cake flour and cornstarch. Mix until smooth and lump-free.

5. Add lemon juice, vanilla, and salt. Set aside.

3. Whip the meringue

1. In a clean mixing bowl, beat egg whites on medium speed.

2. Once foamy, add cream of tartar.

3. Gradually add sugar and continue beating until medium peaks form—glossy and firm but not dry.

4. Fold gently

• Add one-third of the meringue to the cream cheese mixture and fold gently.

• Add the rest in two more additions, folding slowly to avoid deflating the batter.

• The final mixture should be airy, smooth, and light.

5. Fill and bake

1. Pour the batter into each cupcake liner up to 80–90% full.

2. Pour hot water into the outer tray (about 1 inch deep).

3. Bake for 25–30 minutes at 150°C (302°F), then increase to 170°C (338°F) and bake for 5 more minutes for a golden top.

6. Cool carefully

• Turn off the oven and leave the door slightly open for 5 minutes to prevent sudden shrinkage.

• Transfer cupcakes to a cooling rack.

• They will deflate slightly—this is normal for cotton cheesecake.

Serving Ideas

• Dust with powdered sugar

• Top with fresh fruit and whipped cream

• Brush with apricot jam for a glossy finish

• Serve warm for a custard-like center or chilled for a firmer bite

Tips for Perfect Cupcake Success

✔ Use room-temperature ingredients

Helps the batter mix smoothly.

✔ Don’t overbeat the meringue

Dry, stiff whites will cause cracks and an uneven rise.

✔ Fold softly

The air in the meringue is what makes the cupcakes fluffy.

✔ Control the heat

Low, steady baking = smooth and crack-free tops.

✔ Use tall liners

Prevents collapse and allows a pretty, domed rise.

A Cloud You Can Hold in Your Hand

Japanese cotton cheesecake cupcakes capture everything people love about the original dessert but with extra charm and convenience. They’re soft, airy, comforting, and elegant all at once. Whether you’re new to Japanese-style baking or looking for a dessert that always impresses, these cupcakes are a must-try.