Woolworth Cheesecake

 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

  1. In a bowl, mix the crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and sugar until combined.
  2. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  3. Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.

Dissolve the Jell-O

  1. In a heatproof bowl, dissolve the lemon Jell-O in 1 cup of boiling water.
  2. Stir well until fully dissolved and let it cool to room temperature.

Make the Filling

  1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
  2. In a separate bowl, whip the well-chilled evaporated milk until stiff peaks form.
  3. Gradually add the cooled Jell-O mixture, lemon juice, and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. Mix until well combined.
  4. Gently fold in the whipped evaporated milk, ensuring the mixture stays light and fluffy.

Assemble the Cheesecake

  1. Pour the filling over the prepared crust and spread evenly.
  2. Refrigerate for at least 4-6 hours or until set.

Serve

  1. Slice into squares and serve chilled.
  2. 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!


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Woolworth Cheesecake


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  • Author: Isabella
  • 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

  1. In a bowl, mix crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and sugar until combined.
  2. Press mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  3. Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.

Dissolve the Jell-O

  1. In a heatproof bowl, dissolve lemon Jell-O in boiling water. Stir well and let cool to room temperature.

Make the Filling

  1. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
  2. In a separate bowl, whip well-chilled evaporated milk until stiff peaks form.
  3. Gradually add cooled Jell-O mixture, lemon juice, and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. Mix until well combined.
  4. Gently fold in whipped evaporated milk, keeping the mixture light and fluffy.

Assemble the Cheesecake

  1. Pour the filling over the prepared crust and spread evenly.
  2. Refrigerate for at least 4-6 hours or until set.

Serve

  1. Slice into squares and serve chilled.
  2. 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

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