Fluffy Japanese Cotton Cheesecake Cupcakes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

What I love most about these cupcakes is how light and fluffy they are. They’re like little bites of cloud! The combination of cream cheese and butter creates a rich, creamy base, while the egg whites provide a soft, airy texture. These cupcakes aren’t just delicious—they’re also visually impressive with their delicate golden tops. Plus, the recipe is simple, making it easy for anyone to whip up a batch of these melt-in-your-mouth treats in no time. Whether I’m serving them for a casual get-together or a special occasion, they’re sure to impress!

Ingredients

1 cup cream cheese

1/2 cup sugar

1/4 cup milk

1/4 cup unsalted butter

3 large eggs, separated

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

I start by preheating the oven to 320°F (160°C) and lining a muffin tin with cupcake liners.

In a mixing bowl, I beat the cream cheese, sugar, milk, and butter until smooth.

Then, I add the egg yolks one at a time, making sure to mix well after each addition.

In a separate bowl, I whisk the egg whites until soft peaks form.

I gently fold the whipped egg whites into the cream cheese mixture until just combined.

Next, I gradually sift in the flour and salt, folding it in carefully until it’s fully incorporated.

I pour the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each liner about 2/3 full.

I bake the cupcakes for 20-25 minutes or until the tops are lightly golden and a toothpick comes out clean.

Once baked, I let the cupcakes cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12 cupcakes

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Lemon Zest: For an extra burst of flavor, I can add lemon zest to the batter. It enhances the richness and adds a fresh, tangy twist to the cupcakes.

Fruit Topping: These cupcakes pair beautifully with fresh fruit or whipped cream. I love topping them with a few juicy berries or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Flavored Variants: If I want to get creative, I could infuse the batter with a little matcha powder for a Japanese-inspired twist, or use other extracts like almond for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

These cupcakes are best served the same day for the fluffiest, most tender texture. If I have leftovers, I store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. I can also refrigerate them to extend their freshness. However, I find they are best enjoyed at room temperature. If they’ve been refrigerated, I bring them to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

FAQs

Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?

Yes! These cupcakes can be made a few hours ahead of time. I recommend letting them cool completely before storing them in an airtight container.

How can I make these cupcakes more flavorful?

For a more intense flavor, I like adding lemon zest to the batter. It gives a refreshing citrus note that complements the rich cream cheese.

Can I freeze these cupcakes?

While I can freeze these cupcakes, I recommend enjoying them fresh for the best texture. If I do freeze them, I wrap them tightly and store them for up to 2 weeks. I’ll make sure to let them thaw at room temperature before serving.

Can I use something other than cream cheese?

I recommend using cream cheese for the authentic taste, but if I don’t have it on hand, I could try ricotta or mascarpone for a different texture and flavor.

Can I use a hand whisk instead of an electric mixer?

While I can use a hand whisk, it’s a bit more labor-intensive and may take longer to achieve the desired fluffy consistency, especially when whipping the egg whites. Electric beaters will make the process much quicker and easier.

Conclusion

Fluffy Japanese Cotton Cheesecake Cupcakes are a must-try treat that’s as light as a cloud and as rich as a cheesecake. With just a few simple ingredients, I can create a dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed on their own or topped with fruit and whipped cream, these cupcakes are sure to be a hit. If you’re looking for a dessert that’s easy to make but incredibly impressive, these cupcakes are the perfect choice!

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