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If you’re longing for a bright, tangy dessert that perfectly balances creamy richness with a zesty lemon punch, the Woolworth Cheesecake Recipe is exactly what you need. Bursting with fresh lemon flavor, this dreamy no-bake cheesecake combines the smoothness of cream cheese with the delicate fluffiness of whipped evaporated milk or cream, all sitting on a buttery graham cracker crust that adds just the right amount of crunch. It’s a nostalgic treat that’s simple to make yet feels indulgent, and once you try this Woolworth Cheesecake Recipe, it’s sure to become a beloved favorite in your dessert rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Woolworth Cheesecake Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each carefully chosen to create that signature taste and texture. From tangy lemon Jell-O to creamy cheese and crunchy graham cracker crumbs, every element plays a crucial role in delivering creamy, refreshing cheesecake bliss.
- Lemon Jell-O (3 oz package): Provides the bright citrus flavor and helps the cheesecake set with a delightful, light texture.
- Boiling water (1 cup): Dissolves the lemon Jell-O perfectly to start the base of the filling.
- Graham cracker crumbs (3 cups): Gives the crust a sweet, buttery crunch and a rustic, homemade touch; some reserved for garnish.
- Melted butter (1 stick): Combines with graham crumbs to form a firm, flavorful crust that holds the cheesecake together.
- Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): Adds rich, velvety creaminess and classic cheesecake flavor in every bite.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the filling just enough to balance the tart lemon without overpowering it.
- Lemon juice (5 tablespoons): Boosts the fresh, zesty kick and intensifies the lemon profile beautifully.
- Evaporated milk (1 can, chilled) or heavy whipping cream (1 ½ cups, chilled): Whipped to fluffy perfection to lighten the filling and add a luscious mouthfeel.
How to Make Woolworth Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Lemon Jell-O
Start by dissolving the lemon Jell-O powder in 1 cup of boiling water. This step is essential because it creates the base flavor of the cheesecake. Set it aside to cool until it begins to thicken slightly—this ensures the filling will have the perfect set without being stiff.
Step 2: Make the Graham Cracker Crust
Next, mix about 2 ¼ cups of graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan to create a solid, buttery crust foundation. Don’t forget to save the remaining crumbs for sprinkling on top later for a lovely crunchy finish.
Step 3: Whip the Evaporated Milk or Cream
Using a large mixing bowl, beat the chilled evaporated milk or heavy whipping cream until it becomes light and fluffy. This whipped component is what gives the Woolworth Cheesecake Recipe its airy and delicate texture that contrasts so well with the dense cream cheese filling.
Step 4: Create the Cream Cheese Filling
In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and fresh lemon juice until the mixture is silky and smooth. Then, gradually add the slightly thickened Jell-O, blending thoroughly to combine the tangy lemon with creamy richness.
Step 5: Fold Everything Together
Gently fold the whipped evaporated milk or cream into the cream cheese and Jell-O mixture. Be careful to mix until smooth and well incorporated without deflating the fluffy whipped milk—that lightness is key to the cheesecake’s texture!
Step 6: Assemble and Chill
Pour the luscious filling over the prepared graham cracker crust in your pan. To add an inviting, textural contrast, sprinkle the reserved graham cracker crumbs evenly on top. Cover the dish and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours or ideally overnight, allowing the cheesecake to set beautifully and for all those flavors to meld.
How to Serve Woolworth Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
While the reserved graham cracker crumbs add a lovely finish, you can elevate the presentation by garnishing with fresh lemon slices, a dusting of powdered sugar, or even a few sprigs of mint. These simple additions highlight the lemon’s brightness and add a fresh pop of color that makes your cheesecake almost too pretty to eat.
Side Dishes
The Woolworth Cheesecake Recipe is a wonderfully refreshing treat on its own but also pairs beautifully with seasonal berries, a dollop of whipped cream, or even a drizzle of raspberry sauce. These sides add complementary flavors and textures that make each bite feel special and indulgent.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving this cheesecake in individual glass jars layered with fresh fruit, or use cookie cutters to cut it into elegant shapes for a party. You can also create a trifle by layering chunks of the cheesecake with berries and whipped cream for a visually stunning and delectable dessert display.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Woolworth Cheesecake Recipe keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to preserve its creamy texture and fresh lemon flavor.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this cheesecake later, you can freeze it for up to 1 month. Cover it well with plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the fridge to maintain its silky consistency.
Reheating
This cheesecake is best enjoyed chilled, so reheating isn’t recommended. Simply allow thawed cheesecake to come to refrigerator temperature before serving for the perfect refreshing experience every time.
FAQs
Can I use gelatin instead of lemon Jell-O?
Yes, you can use plain gelatin flavored with fresh lemon juice and zest, but the lemon Jell-O adds both flavor and sweetness that complements the creamy filling perfectly. Adjust sugar accordingly if using plain gelatin.
What can I substitute for graham cracker crumbs?
If you don’t have graham crackers, digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or even crushed shortbread cookies work beautifully to create a delicious crust for this cheesecake.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, substitute cream cheese and evaporated milk or cream with coconut cream or dairy-free cream cheese alternatives. Keep in mind that texture and flavor may vary slightly.
Is it necessary to chill the cheesecake overnight?
While chilling for at least 2 hours works, refrigerating overnight allows the flavors to deepen and the cheesecake to set perfectly firm for cleaner slices and a creamier texture.
Can I use fresh lemon juice instead of bottled?
Absolutely! Fresh lemon juice will give the Woolworth Cheesecake Recipe a brighter and more vibrant lemon flavor, making the dessert taste even fresher and more delightful.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely hope you give the Woolworth Cheesecake Recipe a try because it’s one of those rare treats that feels both nostalgic and delightfully fresh at the same time. It’s perfect for so many occasions—from casual family gatherings to special celebrations—and its effortless preparation means you get maximum flavor with minimal fuss. Once you experience that creamy lemony bite alongside the buttery crust, you’ll understand why this recipe has stood the test of time as a cherished favorite. Happy baking and even happier eating!
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Woolworth Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Woolworth Lemon Cheesecake is a refreshing no-bake dessert featuring a tangy lemon Jell-O filling combined with creamy cream cheese and topped with a crunchy graham cracker crust. Perfectly chilled to set, this dessert offers a light, fluffy texture with a zesty citrus twist, ideal for gatherings or a sweet treat any time.
Ingredients
Crust
- 3 cups graham cracker crumbs (save some for topping)
- 1 stick melted butter
Filling
- 1 (3 oz) package lemon Jell-O
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 5 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 can evaporated milk (chilled) or 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream (chilled)
Instructions
- Prepare the Jell-O: Dissolve the lemon Jell-O in 1 cup of boiling water and set it aside to cool until it begins to thicken slightly, which helps integrate the flavors smoothly in the filling.
- Make the Crust: Combine ¾ of the graham cracker crumbs (about 2 ¼ cups) with the melted butter. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan to create an even crust base. Reserve the remaining crumbs for topping.
- Whip the Milk/Cream: In a large mixing bowl, beat the chilled evaporated milk or heavy whipping cream until it becomes fluffy and light, adding a creamy texture to the cheesecake.
- Make the Filling: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, and lemon juice until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Gradually add the thickened Jell-O to the cream cheese mixture and blend thoroughly to combine the flavors.
- Combine Everything: Gently fold the whipped evaporated milk or cream into the cream cheese and Jell-O mixture until evenly combined, maintaining the fluffy texture.
- Assemble: Pour the prepared filling over the graham cracker crust in the pan, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the reserved graham cracker crumbs over the top to add a decorative and crunchy finish.
- Chill: Cover the pan and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or preferably overnight to allow the cheesecake to set firmly before serving.
Notes
- For a richer texture, use heavy whipping cream instead of evaporated milk.
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
- You can substitute lemon Jell-O with lime or orange flavor for variety.
- Press the graham cracker crust firmly to avoid crumbling when serving.
- Chilling overnight enhances the cheesecake’s flavor and texture.
