Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No-Bake Convenience – No need to turn on the oven, making it ideal for warm weather.
- Light and Airy Texture – Whipped evaporated milk gives it a melt-in-your-mouth consistency.
- Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and easy steps make it great for beginners.
- Perfect for Gatherings – A 9×13-inch pan yields enough for a crowd.
- Customizable – You can tweak the crust or add toppings to suit your taste.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Crust:
- 2 1/2 cups crushed graham crackers
- 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup sugar
Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk, well chilled
- 1 package (3 oz) lemon Jell-O
- 1 cup boiling water
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
Prepare the Crust
- In a bowl, mix the crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and sugar until combined.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.
Dissolve the Jell-O
- In a heatproof bowl, dissolve the lemon Jell-O in 1 cup of boiling water.
- Stir well until fully dissolved and let it cool to room temperature.
Make the Filling
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
- In a separate bowl, whip the well-chilled evaporated milk until stiff peaks form.
- Gradually add the cooled Jell-O mixture, lemon juice, and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. Mix until well combined.
- Gently fold in the whipped evaporated milk, ensuring the mixture stays light and fluffy.
Assemble the Cheesecake
- Pour the filling over the prepared crust and spread evenly.
- Refrigerate for at least 4-6 hours or until set.
Serve
- Slice into squares and serve chilled.
- Garnish with whipped cream, lemon zest, or fresh berries if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12-15 slices
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chilling Time: 4-6 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Variations
- Different Crust – Try using vanilla wafers or digestive biscuits instead of graham crackers for a unique twist.
- Citrus Flavor Boost – Substitute orange or lime Jell-O for a refreshing variation.
- Toppings – Add a layer of fresh berries, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a drizzle of caramel for extra flavor.
- Dairy-Free Option – Use dairy-free cream cheese and coconut whipped cream instead of evaporated milk.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
- Reheating: This dessert is meant to be served cold, so no reheating is necessary.
FAQs
1. Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes! It’s best when made a day in advance so it has time to fully set.
2. Why won’t my evaporated milk whip?
Ensure it’s well-chilled—place it in the fridge for several hours or the freezer for 30 minutes before whipping.
3. Can I use a different flavor of Jell-O?
Yes, orange or lime Jell-O works well for a fun twist.
4. How do I get clean slices?
Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water and wipe clean between cuts.
5. Can I use whipped cream instead of evaporated milk?
Yes, but the texture will be slightly different—heavier rather than airy.
6. What can I use instead of graham crackers?
Vanilla wafers, digestive biscuits, or shortbread cookies make great alternatives.
7. Can I make this in a round springform pan?
Yes, but it may not hold its shape as well when sliced since it’s a soft, airy cheesecake.
8. Is this similar to a traditional baked cheesecake?
Not quite—it’s much lighter and fluffier due to the whipped evaporated milk.
9. Can I add fruit to the filling?
Yes! Fold in small fruit pieces like chopped strawberries or blueberries for added texture.
10. How long does it take to set fully?
At least 4-6 hours, but overnight is best for a firm texture.
Conclusion
This Woolworth Cheesecake is a no-bake classic that brings back nostalgic flavors with its light, creamy texture and refreshing lemon taste. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just a sweet treat at home, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Try different variations, add your favorite toppings, and enjoy this timeless dessert!
Woolworth Cheesecake
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 12-15 slices
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Woolworth Cheesecake is a nostalgic, no-bake dessert with a light, fluffy texture and a delicious lemon-infused filling on a buttery graham cracker crust. Perfect for gatherings, this easy-to-make cheesecake is refreshing, airy, and sure to impress!
Ingredients
Crust:
- 2 1/2 cups crushed graham crackers
- 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup sugar
Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk, well chilled
- 1 package (3 oz) lemon Jell-O
- 1 cup boiling water
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Prepare the Crust
- In a bowl, mix crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and sugar until combined.
- Press mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.
Dissolve the Jell-O
- In a heatproof bowl, dissolve lemon Jell-O in boiling water. Stir well and let cool to room temperature.
Make the Filling
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
- In a separate bowl, whip well-chilled evaporated milk until stiff peaks form.
- Gradually add cooled Jell-O mixture, lemon juice, and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. Mix until well combined.
- Gently fold in whipped evaporated milk, keeping the mixture light and fluffy.
Assemble the Cheesecake
- Pour the filling over the prepared crust and spread evenly.
- Refrigerate for at least 4-6 hours or until set.
Serve
- Slice into squares and serve chilled.
- Garnish with whipped cream, lemon zest, or fresh berries if desired.
Notes
- For best results, chill the evaporated milk for several hours before whipping.
- To get clean slices, dip a sharp knife in warm water and wipe clean between cuts.
- Make ahead: This cheesecake is best when made a day in advance for full setting.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chilling Time: 4-6 hours
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American