What to know about the 'Japanese cheesecake' viral food trend

On January 23 2026 ABC News aired a video featuring chef Lori Bergamotto, who demonstrates how to make the viral Japanese cheesecake that has swept social media. Bergamotto explains the unique light‑baked, fluffy texture that distinguishes this dessert from traditional American cheesecakes, highlighting key ingredients such as cream cheese, eggs, sugar, and a touch of lemon zest. The recipe calls for a 175 °C (350 °F) oven bake that takes about 45 minutes, with a cooling time of 30 minutes before serving. Bergamotto shares tips on how to achieve a smooth crumb and discusses the snack’s popularity among TikTok users worldwide. The video emphasizes simplicity, encouraging viewers to recreate the trend at home using readily available kitchen staples.