Viral Japanese Cheesecake Recipe Divides Dessert Fans

Cheesecake, a dessert steeped in centuries of tradition, has found itself at the heart of a social media whirlwind in early 2026, thanks to a viral recipe that’s as simple as it is divisive. In January, TikTok and Instagram Reels became saturated with videos touting a so-called "Japanese Cheesecake" that’s made with just two supermarket staples: Greek yogurt and Biscoff cookies. The process is straightforward—press Biscoff biscuits into a tub of thick Greek yogurt, cover, and refrigerate for a few hours or overnight. The cookies soften as they absorb moisture, and the resulting treat is, according to some, reminiscent of classic cheesecake. But is it really cheesecake? That question has sparked debate and curiosity worldwide.

According to Parade, the trend exploded in January 2026 as countless users shared their own takes on the recipe. The basic instructions couldn’t be easier: add Biscoff cookies to a tub of Greek yogurt, let the mixture chill in the fridge, and wait for the cookies to soften. The time required varies depending on how soft or crunchy you want the end result—some prefer a few hours, others leave it overnight. Many fans recommend experimenting with flavored yogurts, such as vanilla, honey, or fruity varieties, for an extra twist. A few inventive cooks even add a hint of cream cheese, hoping to nudge the flavor further toward that of a traditional cheesecake.

The reactions online have been effusive. “I need this IMMEDIATELY,” exclaimed one Instagram user, while another gushed, “The perfect sweet treat! Definitely making these!!” Over on TikTok, the enthusiasm was equally palpable: “Omg, I made this after watching a video, it’s amazing,” wrote one commenter, adding, “I’ll never eat Greek yogurt without doing this from now on.”

But what, exactly, is a Japanese cheesecake? As Better Homes & Gardens Australia (BHG) points out, the authentic version is a far cry from this viral hack. Traditional Japanese cheesecake is light, soufflé-like, and made with whipped egg whites and cream cheese, all baked gently in a water bath. It’s airy, soft, and wobbly—quite different from the dense, creamy cheesecakes familiar to most Western palates. The viral dessert, by contrast, is a no-bake concoction with no cream cheese, no gelatine, and no baking required. It’s just supermarket ingredients and a bit of patience, resulting in a dessert that sits somewhere between a chilled yogurt treat and a softened biscuit cake. No wonder the internet can’t agree on what to call it.

The BHG team put the recipe to the test using Farmers Union Greek Yoghurt and Lotus Biscoff biscuits. The results were mixed. Managing Editor Sophie Al-Bassam admitted, “It actually tastes quite good,” expressing pleasant surprise. Editor Meg Osborne, however, found the dish a bit too tart: “It’s still quite sour from the yoghurt. The Biscoff doesn’t make it sweet enough.” Senior Content Producer Rachel Iorfino was less impressed, bluntly stating, “I’d rather just eat yoghurt.” Food editor Sarah Murphy echoed the sentiment that the dessert didn’t fully live up to its viral hype, but she did appreciate its convenience as a quick, no-bake option. She also recommended adding a strawberry cream swirl or trying different biscuits for variety.

For those wanting to dress up the basic recipe, some versions circulating online suggest drizzling melted Biscoff spread over the top or adding a strawberry coulis for extra flavor. The possibilities are endless, and users have embraced the freedom to experiment with different yogurt flavors and biscuit types.

In a uniquely Australian twist, the BHG team swapped out Biscoff for Arnott’s Iced Vovo biscuits—a beloved local favorite. The results were surprisingly positive. Garden Editor Jenny Dillon, initially skeptical, admitted it “looked suss” and “wasn’t crunchy,” but ultimately described it as “nice, sweet and tangy,” awarding it a 7 out of 10. Content producer Jada Susas, who normally avoids both Iced Vovos and strawberries, was the real shocker: she gave the dessert a perfect 10 out of 10 and declared she could eat the whole tub. Senior designer Carol Tang said it “tasted almost healthy” and would happily buy it again. Food editor Sarah Murphy rated this version even higher than the original, suggesting that Iced Vovo fans would be delighted.

Despite the enthusiasm, not everyone is convinced this viral dish deserves the cheesecake moniker. As BHG candidly notes, “Let’s be honest, calling this a cheesecake is a bit of a stretch. It’s really just yoghurt with biscuits set in the fridge. Tasty? Sure. Cheesecake? We’re not convinced.” Still, the accessibility and simplicity of the recipe have made it a hit with home cooks who want a quick, shareable dessert that doesn’t require an oven or fancy ingredients.

The roots of cheesecake itself run deep. According to Parade, the earliest versions date back thousands of years to ancient Greece. After the Roman conquest, the concept evolved and spread throughout Europe and Asia, eventually making its way to America in the 19th century. The modern cream cheese that defines today’s classic cheesecake was actually an accidental invention by New York dairyman William Lawrence, who was trying to perfect the French cheese Neufchâtel. This “cheese-vention” paved the way for the iconic flavor profile that’s still beloved—and imitated—in countless forms today.

So, where does the viral Japanese Biscoff yogurt “cheesecake” fit into this long and storied history? It’s certainly not a traditional cheesecake, but it’s emblematic of a new era of culinary creativity—one fueled by social media, convenience, and a willingness to experiment. The recipe’s popularity underscores a broader trend: home cooks are eager for desserts that are simple, accessible, and adaptable. Whether you’re a purist who prefers the classic baked version or an adventurous eater willing to try the latest viral hack, there’s no denying that cheesecake—by any name—continues to capture imaginations and taste buds around the globe.

Ultimately, the viral yogurt and biscuit dessert may not replace the classic cheesecake at your next celebration, but it’s a testament to the power of the internet to reinvent even the most time-honored treats. And who knows? The next viral sensation might be just a tub of yogurt and a packet of cookies away.