Ingredients
The Base
- 200g Marie biscuits (Maria cookies), crushed
- 80g unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar (optional, for sweeter base)
The Filling
- 300g full-cream cream cheese, softened
- 200ml heavy whipping cream (double cream)
- 100g plain yoghurt (natural, unsweetened)
- 80g powdered sugar (confectioners sugar)
- 2 tsp culinary-grade matcha powder
- 6g powdered unflavored gelatin
- 3 tbsp water (for blooming gelatin)
Instructions
- Prepare the Base: Crush the Marie biscuits finely using a food processor or by placing them in a sealed bag and rolling with a rolling pin. Mix the crushed biscuits with melted unsalted butter and sugar if using. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 7-inch (18 cm) springform or cake pan to create an even, compact base. Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.
- Bloom the Gelatin: Sprinkle the powdered gelatin over 3 tablespoons of cold water in a small bowl. Allow it to bloom and absorb the water for about 5 minutes until it becomes spongy.
- Heat the Gelatin: Gently warm the bloomed gelatin over a double boiler or in short bursts in the microwave until completely dissolved, being careful not to overheat or boil it. Set aside to cool slightly but avoid letting it set.
- Mix the Cream Cheese and Yoghurt: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the plain yoghurt and continue to mix until fully incorporated.
- Add Powdered Sugar and Matcha: Sift in the powdered sugar and matcha powder to the cream cheese mixture. Mix thoroughly until the matcha is evenly distributed and there are no lumps.
- Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until it holds medium peaks. Be careful not to overwhip to avoid grainy texture.
- Combine Ingredients: Slowly fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula, ensuring not to deflate the airiness.
- Add Gelatin: Gradually drizzle the dissolved gelatin into the cheesecake mixture, folding gently to combine evenly.
- Assemble the Cheesecake: Pour the filling over the chilled biscuit base, smoothing the top with a spatula. Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight, until fully set.
- Serve: Once set, carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan. Optionally, dust with a light sprinkle of matcha powder on top for decoration. Slice and serve chilled for a refreshing dessert.
Notes
- Use culinary-grade matcha for the best balance of flavor and color in desserts.
- Gelatin bloom and dissolve carefully to ensure a smooth cheesecake texture without lumps.
- Chilling time is essential to allow the cheesecake to fully set; overnight chilling yields the best results.
- For a sweeter base, add sugar to the crushed cookie mixture before pressing.
- Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Handle whipped cream gently to maintain volume in the filling.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Japanese-inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian