“Uncle Rikuro’s Cheesecake” is a famous treat in Osaka for over 30 years since it started selling in 1984. We’ll show you what makes Rikuro cheesecake special, like the delicious stuff you can only get at the main store’s café and the products loved by regulars. Keep reading to find out more about these tasty treats!
What is Rikuro Cheesecake?
About Uncle Rikuro’s shop
“Uncle Rikuro’s shop” is a well-known sweet shop in Osaka, loved by almost everyone in the city. They bake a special cheesecake on-site, sized at 18 cm and reasonably priced at 735 yen (including tax), known for its great taste and value.
Local folks in Osaka spread the word about its deliciousness and affordability, making it a hit. Now, it’s so loved that even people from other countries make a special trip to taste it. It’s a popular spot, so there might be a line, but it moves quickly, usually taking about 10 minutes to buy. Want to skip the line? Arriving early in the morning helps!
If you can’t get a freshly baked one, don’t worry! They also sell cakes baked within 3 hours at the back of the store. With 12 stores across Osaka, including ones near stations and in neighborhoods, Uncle Rikuro’s shop is easily accessible.
What is Rikuro cheesecake?
“Rikuro Cheesecake,” from Uncle Rikuro’s Shop, is all about carefully selected ingredients. They use this awesome Danish cream cheese straight from a special place in Denmark. It’s not like other cheesecakes; it’s got its unique flavor. Plus, they’re super picky about the fresh milk and eggs they use, making sure they’re top-notch. Those California raisins they add are soaked in homemade syrup, giving a lovely aroma when you bite in.
You’ll see these cheesecakes being baked fresh all day in the store. The sound of the bell means a fresh batch is out, and these cakes are making waves on social media, attracting fans from all over the world. You can enjoy them fresh for a light, fluffy feel or let them sit a bit for a denser, richer taste. And here’s a surprise – each slice gives you two different textures to enjoy!
History
Uncle Rikuro’s Shop traces its roots back to Rikuro Nishimura’s journey. Originally dealing in wholesale Japanese sweets since 1956, Nishimura ventured into retail, establishing “Chidoriya” in 1958.
In 1984, while launching their second store, the quest for an exceptional product led to trials that birthed the idea of a freshly baked cheesecake, challenging the conventional notion that cakes had to be served cold. This innovation introduced the iconic “Uncle Rikuro Mark” imprinted on “Uncle Rikuro’s Cheesecake,” with Nishimura serving as the branding model.
By 1988, with the opening of the main store in Namba, the unified brand became known as “Uncle Rikuro’s Store,” anchored by the beloved freshly baked cheesecake—a testament to the company’s fortune. The subsequent sections will delve into the distinct characteristics and irresistible texture of this celebrated cheesecake.
Recommended ways to enjoy deliciousness
Enjoying the Deliciousness
Uncle Rikuro’s cheesecake offers five delightful ways to savor its goodness:
- Freshly Baked: Indulge in the pride of freshness! Soft and fluffy, right out of the oven. It’s a treat for your taste buds!
- Chilled (At Room Temperature): Even when it’s not hot, this cheesecake is still tasty. Experience the natural flavors of its ingredients.
- Chill Out: Cooling it enhances its flavors, making it moister and more delicious, especially on a warm day.
- A Warm Treat: After cooling, a quick spin in the microwave revives its fluffy texture, bringing back that delightful freshness.
- Enjoy the Wait: The joy isn’t just in the eating; it’s also in the anticipation. Embrace the delightful aroma while you wait for it to bake at the store.
How to warm up using microwave?
- Remove the cheesecake from its bag.
- Slice 1/6 of the cheesecake and place it on a plate.
- Store any remaining portions in a plastic bag in the refrigerator to keep them from drying out.
- Take the slice out of the perforated nylon bag.
- Heat the 1/6 slice in a 500W microwave for about 20-30 seconds.
- Carefully avoid overheating as it might expand.
Enjoy the fluffy and warm slice, relishing the taste reminiscent of a freshly baked cheesecake!
Rikuro Cheesecake Q&A
- Why does Rikuro Cheesecake often wobble?
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The characteristic wobbling is due to its unique composition, featuring a soft, airy texture achieved through specific baking methods and ingredients.
- What sets Rikuro’s Cheesecake apart from other cheesecakes?
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Rikuro’s Cheesecake boasts a moist, fluffy consistency and a mild cheese flavor, setting it apart from denser, richer variations found in other cheesecakes.
How to make homemade Cheesecake Inspired by Rikuro’s?
Ingredients (15cm round deco cheesecake)
| Ingredients | Amount |
|---|---|
| Base fabric: | |
| Cream cheese | 180g |
| Egg yolk | 3 pieces |
| Thin flour | 35g |
| Milk | 50g |
| 1 tablespoon of lemon juice | – |
| Meringue: | |
| Egg white | 3 pieces |
| Granulated sugar A | 20g |
| Dried egg white | 6g |
| Granulated sugar B | 60g |
| Rum Raisin: | |
| Raisins | 50g |
| 1 tablespoon of rum | – |
Instructions
Prepare an elongated oven paper and round bottom to match the mold’s size. Layer the mold with the papers, applying a thin coat of salad oil and covering it with aluminum foil to seal it from water.
- Mix dried egg white and granulated sugar A (20g).
- Optionally, freeze the egg whites if time allows.
- Soak raisins in boiling water for 15 minutes, drain, add rum, heat for 30 seconds in a microwave, and let it cool.
- Sprinkle rum raisins at the bottom of the prepared mold.
- Soften cream cheese in a heat-resistant bowl, mix with a wooden spatula.
- Add egg yolk, flour, milk, and lemon juice, and mix until smooth.
- Strain the mixture into a large bowl.
Whip egg whites until foamy, gradually add granulated sugar B, and whip until glossy and stiff peaks form.
Gently fold 1/3 of the meringue into the egg yolk base, then add the remaining meringue in two parts and fold softly.
- Pour the mixture into the mold, place it in a deep container, and pour in water.
- Bake at 170°C, then lower to 160°C for 40 minutes and further to 140°C for 10 minutes.
Allow the baked cheesecake to cool in the oven for 10 minutes before removing. Then transfer the cheesecake to the refrigerator, letting it chill for at least 4 hours or overnight.
When ready to serve, cut into slices using a warmed knife and savor the delightful taste of your homemade Rikuro Cheesecake!
Uncle Rikuro’s shop listed
Rikuro Suminoe Kōen (りくろーおじさんの店 住之江公園店)
The shop is situated on the main street and offers a parking lot for convenience. Its kitchen, visible through glass walls, showcases the creation of party cakes and Western sweets, allowing customers to witness the sweet-making process. Furthermore, the store provides an engaging opportunity for children and staff to collaborate in decorating and completing party cakes.
Rikuro’s Namba Main Branch (りくろーおじさんの店 なんば本店)
This store is positioned in Ebisubashi-suji Shopping Street, in close proximity to the former Namba main store. Additionally, it features a stand-type eat-in space.
Rikuro Saitō no Mori (りくろーおじさんの店 彩都の森店)
This shop boasts a feeling of freedom, nestled amidst lush green mountains. It offers private parking, outdoor terrace seating, and an eat-in area, catering to families seeking delightful sweets. Additionally, it features a range of treats, including Rikuro curry bread, freshly baked omelet sandwiches, and exclusive seasonal tarts available only at the Saito no Mori store.
Takeaway
Rikuro Cheesecake isn’t just a dessert; it’s a flavorful journey through Osaka’s culinary heritage. From Uncle Rikuro’s kitchen to its global acclaim, each slice narrates a tale of dedication and baking expertise. The aroma as it bakes, the soft texture that simply melts – they’re part of this delightful experience. Whether you’re a local or a curious traveler, savoring Rikuro Cheesecake is more than enjoying a treat; it’s savoring a slice of culinary tradition that delights with every bite.
You can also find your favourite Japanese sweets below!
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