Step 1: Preheat the Oven & Prepare the Baking Pan

1. Preheat the oven to 320°F (160°C).
2. Grease an 8-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
3. Wrap the bottom of the pan with two layers of aluminum foil (this prevents water from seeping in during the water bath).

Step 2: Melt the Cream Cheese Mixture

1. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt cream cheese, butter, and milk together, stirring constantly until smooth.
2. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 3: Prepare the Egg Yolk Batter

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar (¼ cup) until pale and slightly thickened.
2. Add the vanilla extract and lemon juice and mix well.
3. Slowly pour in the warm cream cheese mixture, whisking constantly.
4. Sift in the cake flour, cornstarch, and salt, and mix until smooth and lump-free.

Step 4: Make the Meringue

1. In a separate clean, dry bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar on medium speed until foamy.
2. Gradually add the sugar (¼ cup), one tablespoon at a time, while beating.
3. Increase to high speed and continue beating until you achieve soft peaks (when the peaks curl over slightly but hold their shape).

Step 5: Fold the Meringue into the Batter

1. Add ⅓ of the meringue into the egg yolk mixture and fold gently with a spatula.
2. Repeat two more times, folding gently but thoroughly to keep the batter light and airy.

Step 6: Bake the Cheesecake in a Water Bath

1. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and tap the pan gently to remove air bubbles.
2. Place the pan into a larger baking dish and carefully add hot water halfway up the sides (this creates steam for even baking).
3. Bake at 320°F (160°C) for 25 minutes, then reduce to 290°F (145°C) and bake for another 30–35 minutes.

Step 7: Cool the Cheesecake Gradually

1. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly open for 15 minutes (this prevents cracking).
2. Remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for another 30 minutes before unmolding.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

1. Dust with powdered sugar and serve with fresh berries or whipped cream.
2. Slice gently with a warm knife for the cleanest cuts.