Woolworth Cheesecake Recipe

Introduction

This easy and classic Woolworth Cheesecake has been a family favorite for generations. Its light, fluffy texture and refreshing lemon flavor make it a delightful dessert for any occasion. When I first made this recipe, my family couldn’t get enough of it. It was a hit at every gathering, from birthday parties to holiday celebrations. The blend of creamy filling and crumbly crust creates a perfect balance, and it’s incredibly simple to whip up. You might even find that it disappears faster than you can slice it!

Ingredients

• 1 (3 oz) package lemon Jell-O
• 1 cup boiling water
• 3 cups graham cracker crumbs (save some for topping)
• 1 stick melted butter
• 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

1. Prepare the Jell-O:

• Dissolve the lemon Jell-O in 1 cup of boiling water. Stir until completely dissolved and set it aside to cool until it starts to thicken slightly.

1. Make the Crust:

• In a mixing bowl, combine ¾ of the graham cracker crumbs (about 2 ¼ cups) with the melted butter. Mix well until the crumbs are evenly coated.
• Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan to form the crust. Set aside the remaining crumbs for later use.

1. Whip the Milk/Cream:

• In a large mixing bowl, beat the chilled evaporated milk (or heavy whipping cream) using an electric mixer until it’s fluffy and light. This step is crucial for achieving the cheesecake’s airy texture.

1. Make the Filling:

• In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and lemon juice together until smooth and creamy.
• Slowly add the thickened Jell-O to the cream cheese mixture, blending well until fully combined.

1. Combine Everything:

• Gently fold the whipped evaporated milk into the Jell-O and cream cheese mixture. Use a spatula to ensure everything is combined smoothly without deflating the whipped cream.

1. Assemble:

• Pour the filling over the prepared graham cracker crust in the pan, spreading it evenly.
• Sprinkle the reserved graham cracker crumbs on top for a decorative finish.

1. Chill:

• Cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight, to allow it to set properly.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 12
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 200
• Sugar: 18g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Chill Time: 2 hours
• Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes

How to Serve

• Slice and serve: Cut the cheesecake into squares or rectangles.
• Garnish: Top with fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for added flavor.
• Chilled drinks: Pair with iced tea or lemonade for a refreshing dessert experience.
• Presentation: Serve on a decorative platter for special occasions.
• Leftovers: Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Additional Tips

1. Chill the ingredients: Ensure your evaporated milk or heavy cream is well-chilled for the best whipping results.
2. Mix well: Make sure the Jell-O is fully dissolved before adding it to the cream cheese mixture to avoid lumps.
3. Use fresh ingredients: Fresh lemon juice enhances the flavor, but bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch.
4. Adjust sweetness: Feel free to adjust the sugar to your taste if you prefer a less sweet cheesecake.
5. Experiment with flavors: Try using different flavors of Jell-O for a fun twist on the classic recipe.

Recipe Variations

• Fruit variations: Substitute lemon Jell-O with lime, orange, or strawberry for different flavor profiles.
• Add fruits: Incorporate fresh fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries into the filling or as a topping.
• Nut crust: Mix crushed nuts with graham cracker crumbs for a nutty twist on the crust.
• Chocolate cheesecake: Use chocolate pudding instead of lemon Jell-O for a decadent chocolate cheesecake.
• Add toppings: Consider whipped cream, caramel sauce, or chocolate shavings for added flair.

Serving Suggestions

• Brunch: This cheesecake makes a great addition to brunch spreads alongside muffins and pastries.
• Parties: Perfect for potlucks, birthdays, or holiday gatherings, where it can serve a crowd.
• Picnics: Easy to transport in a sealed container for outdoor gatherings.
• After dinner: Serve as a light dessert after a hearty meal.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: You can freeze this cheesecake for up to 2 months. Just cover it well with plastic wrap or foil before freezing.
• Thawing: To serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying.
• Storage: Store leftover cheesecake in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different size pan?

• Yes, you can use an 8×8 inch pan for thicker cheesecake squares, but adjust the chilling time.

1. What if I don’t have graham crackers?

• You can substitute with crushed vanilla wafers or digestive biscuits.

1. Can I make this cheesecake without Jell-O?

• Yes, you can use gelatin instead or skip it entirely for a different texture.

1. How do I know when it’s set?

• The cheesecake should be firm to the touch but still slightly jiggly in the center when chilled.

1. Can I add chocolate to the filling?

• Absolutely! You can mix in melted chocolate or cocoa powder for a richer flavor.

1. What’s the best way to cut the cheesecake?

• Use a sharp knife and dip it in hot water for clean cuts.

1. Is this cheesecake gluten-free?

• If you use gluten-free graham crackers, yes!

1. Can I use non-dairy alternatives?

• Yes, use non-dairy cream cheese and whipping cream for a dairy-free version.

1. How long can I keep leftovers?

• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

1. Can I make this ahead of time?
   • Yes, it’s best made the day before to allow flavors to meld and set properly.

Conclusion

The Woolworth Cheesecake is not just a dessert; it’s a family tradition that brings back cherished memories with every slice. Its simplicity and refreshing lemon flavor make it a perfect treat for any gathering or celebration. Whether you’re enjoying it on a warm summer day or serving it at a festive event, this cheesecake is sure to impress. Give this recipe a try, and you might just find it becomes a beloved staple in your home, too!

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