Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or generously grease each cup with butter and lightly dust with flour to prevent sticking.Butter
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. You can use an electric mixer on medium speed or a whisk until no lumps remain.8 ounces Cream Cheese, 0.5 cup Granulated Sugar
- Add the egg yolks, one at a time, beating well after each addition until fully incorporated. Stir in the sour cream, milk, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until the mixture is uniform and smooth.3 Large Eggs, 0.25 cup Sour Cream, 0.25 cup Milk, 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice, 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- Gradually add the sifted all-purpose flour to the cream cheese mixture, mixing on low speed just until combined. Be careful not to overmix at this stage.2 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour
- In a separate, clean, and dry bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer on medium speed until frothy. If using, add the cream of tartar.3 Large Eggs, 0.25 teaspoon Cream of Tartar
- Increase the mixer speed to high and continue beating the egg whites until stiff peaks form. This means that when you lift the beaters, the egg whites will stand up straight and hold their shape without drooping.
- Gently fold about one-third of the whipped egg whites into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula. This lightens the batter. Then, carefully fold in the remaining egg whites in two more additions, ensuring not to deflate the air that has been incorporated. The goal is a homogeneous, airy batter.
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full. Gently tap the muffin tin on the counter a couple of times to release any large air bubbles.
- This is crucial for that signature moist and even bake. Place the filled muffin tin inside a larger baking pan. Carefully pour hot water into the larger pan, so it comes about halfway up the sides of the muffin tin. This creates a humid environment in the oven.
- Carefully transfer the entire setup to the preheated oven. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the cupcakes are lightly golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. They will also be puffed up significantly.
- Once baked, carefully remove the muffin tin from the water bath. Let the cupcakes cool in the tin for about 10 minutes before gently removing them and transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. They will deflate slightly as they cool, which is normal.
Notes
For optimal freshness, store leftover Japanese Cotton Cheesecake Cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will remain delicious for up to 3-4 days. If you wish to freeze them for later enjoyment, ensure they are completely cooled. Wrap each cupcake individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 1-2 months. To reheat, you can enjoy them chilled directly from the refrigerator. If you prefer them slightly warmed, you can gently reheat them in a low-temperature oven (around 275°F or 135°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until just warmed through. Thawed cupcakes from the freezer should not be refrozen.
