No-Bake Woolworth Cheesecake Recipe
Woolworth’s cheesecake is a nostalgic, creamy dessert that requires no baking and minimal effort. This recipe harks back to the Woolworth lunch counters of the 1960s and ’70s, where this light, fluffy cheesecake was a beloved treat. It’s perfect for warm days when you don’t want to turn on the oven. Here’s how to make this delightful, vintage no-bake Woolworth cheesecake.
Ingredients:
Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
Filling:
- 1 (12 oz) can of evaporated milk, chilled
- 1 (8 oz) package of cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 package (3 oz) lemon gelatin (Jell-O)
- 1 cup boiling water
Topping (Optional):
- Whipped cream
- Fresh berries or fruit slices
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Gelatin:
- Start by dissolving the lemon gelatin in 1 cup of boiling water. Stir well until the gelatin is completely dissolved. Allow this mixture to cool to room temperature, but do not let it set. Setting the gelatin too early can lead to lumps in the cheesecake filling.
2. Prepare the Crust:
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until the crumbs are well-coated with butter and resemble wet sand.
- Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form an even crust. Use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a glass to compact the crumbs. Place the crust in the refrigerator to set while you prepare the filling.
3. Whip the Evaporated Milk:
- Ensure the evaporated milk is thoroughly chilled, as this helps it whip up to a creamy, airy consistency. Pour the chilled evaporated milk into a large mixing bowl.
- Using an electric mixer, whip the milk on high speed until it becomes light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Set aside.
4. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:
- In a separate large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the sugar while continuing to mix until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps.
- Add the lemon juice and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture, mixing until everything is well combined.
5. Combine the Mixtures:
- Slowly pour the cooled lemon gelatin into the cream cheese mixture. Mix on low speed until fully incorporated. The mixture will be slightly runny but will firm up as it cools and sets.
- Gently fold the whipped evaporated milk into the cream cheese and gelatin mixture. Use a spatula to fold, not mix, ensuring you keep the mixture light and airy.
6. Assemble the Cheesecake:
- Pour the filling over the chilled graham cracker crust, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. The filling should be light, fluffy, and smooth.
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until the cheesecake is fully set. For the best results, refrigerate overnight.
7. Serve:
- Once set, slice the cheesecake into squares or rectangles. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream and a garnish of fresh berries or fruit slices if desired. Enjoy this light, creamy, and refreshing dessert.
Tips and Variations:
- Chilling the Evaporated Milk: For the best results, chill the can of evaporated milk in the freezer for about 30 minutes before whipping. This step helps it whip to a fluffy consistency, which is key to the cheesecake’s texture.
- Gelatin: Ensure that the gelatin is cooled to room temperature before adding it to the cream cheese mixture. Adding hot gelatin could cause the mixture to separate.
- Flavor Variations: While lemon is traditional for this recipe, you can experiment with other flavors of gelatin for a different twist. Try strawberry, lime, or orange for a fruity variation.
- Crust: If you prefer a different crust, you can substitute crushed vanilla wafers, shortbread cookies, or even chocolate graham crackers.
Storing the Cheesecake:
Store the Woolworth cheesecake in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or foil, for up to 5 days. This cheesecake can also be frozen. If freezing, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
This no-bake Woolworth cheesecake is a perfect dessert for family gatherings, potlucks, or any occasion that calls for a light and refreshing treat. Its creamy texture and subtle lemon flavor make it a crowd-pleaser that evokes a sense of nostalgia with every bite.
