Mini Japanese Cheesecakes (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Batter Base

01 - 150ml milk
02 - 60g butter
03 - 150g cream cheese (room temperature)
04 - 6 egg yolks
05 - 80g low protein flour
06 - 25g cornstarch
07 - Vanilla extract (to taste)

→ Meringue

08 - 6 egg whites
09 - 100g granulated sugar
10 - 1 tsp lime or lemon juice
11 - 1/4 tsp salt

# Instructions:

01 - Line 10 cm round baking trays (3 cm height) with baking paper to prevent sticking.
02 - Using a double boiler method, melt milk, butter, and cream cheese together until completely liquid and smooth.
03 - Add low protein flour and cornstarch to the warm melted mixture. Whisk thoroughly to incorporate all dry ingredients without lumps.
04 - Stir in egg yolks and vanilla extract until the batter is completely smooth. Set aside.
05 - In a separate bowl, whip egg whites with lime/lemon juice and salt on high speed until foamy. Gradually add sugar while continuing to beat until medium stiff peaks form.
06 - Strain the egg yolk mixture into the meringue. Gently fold together with a spatula until uniform in color, being careful not to deflate the egg whites.
07 - Pour 70g of batter into each prepared baking dish. Place the dishes in a larger tray filled with hot water (bain-marie method).
08 - Bake at 150°C for 60 minutes until set and lightly golden on top.
09 - After baking, gently tap the cheesecakes on the counter to release trapped air. Remove from pans, peel off baking paper, and cool on a rack before serving.

# Notes:

01 - These mini cheesecakes have a lighter, fluffier texture than traditional cheesecakes due to the whipped egg whites.
02 - The bain-marie (water bath) method prevents cracking and ensures even cooking.