No-Bake Classic Woolworth Cheesecake
Rated 5.0 stars by 1 users
Category
Dessert/Cake
Cuisine
American
Servings
12
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
0 minutes
Calories
250
Indulge in this timeless No-Bake Classic Woolworth Cheesecake, a light and lemony dessert that's perfect for any occasion.
Inspired by the beloved recipe from the famous Woolworth's lunch counter, this airy cheesecake is refreshingly simple to make and absolutely delightful to eat.
It's the perfect addition to your dessert menu when you want something sweet without the fuss of baking.
Ingredients
- 2 cups (200g) graham cracker crumbs (about 16 full sheets)
- 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1 package (85g) lemon-flavored gelatin (lemon Jell-O)
- 1 cup (240ml) boiling water
- 1 package (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 can (354ml) evaporated milk, well chilled (or 1½ cups heavy whipping cream)
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Whisk
- 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) baking dish
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Refrigerator
For the Crust:
For the Filling:
Tools Needed
Directions
Prepare the Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar.
Mix until the crumbs are thoroughly coated and the mixture resembles wet sand.
Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the 9x13 inch baking dish to form the crust.
Reserve about 2 tablespoons of the crumb mixture for topping (optional).
Place the crust in the refrigerator to set while you prepare the filling.
Dissolve the Gelatin
In a medium bowl, dissolve the lemon gelatin in 1 cup of boiling water.
Stir well to ensure it's completely dissolved.
Allow the gelatin mixture to cool slightly, but do not let it set.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth using an electric mixer.
Add the granulated sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
Continue beating until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Combine Gelatin and Cream Cheese Mixtures
Slowly pour the cooled gelatin mixture into the cream cheese mixture.
Beat on low speed until fully combined and smooth.
Whip the Evaporated Milk
In a separate chilled bowl, whip the well-chilled evaporated milk on high speed until it becomes fluffy and forms soft peaks. This may take several minutes.
Tip: If using heavy whipping cream, whip until stiff peaks form.
Fold Together
Gently fold the whipped evaporated milk into the cream cheese and gelatin mixture.
Mix until fully incorporated, being careful not to deflate the whipped milk.
Assemble the Cheesecake
Pour the filling over the prepared crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Sprinkle the reserved graham cracker crumbs over the top for garnish (optional).
Chill
Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 2 hours, or until fully set.
For best results, chill overnight.
Serve
Once set, slice the cheesecake into squares.
Serve chilled and enjoy this light, lemony delight!
Recipe Note
Tips and Variations
- Chill the Evaporated Milk: Place the can of evaporated milk in the freezer for about 30 minutes before whipping. It should be very cold but not frozen.
- Alternative Crust: Swap graham crackers for digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers for a different flavor profile.
- Extra Lemon Flavor: Add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest to the filling for an extra zesty kick.
- Toppings: Garnish with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a drizzle of fruit sauce to elevate the presentation.
- Make Ahead: This dessert can be made a day in advance, making it perfect for parties and gatherings.
Conclusion
This No-Bake Classic Woolworth Cheesecake is a nostalgic treat that brings back the simplicity and delight of yesteryears.
Its light and fluffy texture combined with a refreshing lemon flavor makes it an ideal dessert for spring and summer occasions.
Easy to prepare and sure to impress, this cheesecake is a must-try recipe that will become a staple in your dessert repertoire.
Enjoyed this recipe? Share it with friends and family, and don't forget to check out our other delicious no-bake desserts!
Nutrition
Nutrition
- Serving Size
- 100
- per serving
- Calories
- 250
- Carbs
- 32 grams
- 21%
- Protein
- 4 grams
- 4%
- Fat
- 12 grams
- 18%
- Sugar
- 23 grams
- 28%
- Fiber
- 0 grams
- 0%