If youβre a fan of light, fluffy, and refreshing desserts, then the Woolworth Icebox Cheesecake is perfect for you. This no-bake cheesecake is a nostalgic treat with a hint of lemon flavor, layered on a buttery graham cracker crust. Itβs incredibly easy to make and requires no oven time, making it an ideal dessert for hot summer days or when you want a quick and delicious treat without the fuss. Letβs dive into the details of how to create this delightful dessert.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 2 cups (14-16 sheets, 168 g) honey graham crackers, finely crushed
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- Β½ cup (1 stick / 113g) butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 1 block (8 ounces) cream cheese, room temperature
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 box (3 ounces) lemon jello mix
- Β½ cup boiling water, about 212Β°F
- Β½ cup cold water, about 50Β°F
- 1 can (12 ounces) evaporated milk, chilled in the freezer for 30 minutes
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Tools and Ingredients
Before you begin, make sure to chill the bowl of a stand mixer, the whisk attachment, and the can of evaporated milk in the freezer for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving peaks when whipping the evaporated milk. Do not skip this step as it ensures the right texture for your cheesecake filling.
Step 2: Make the Crust
- Lightly spray a 9Γ13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent the crust from sticking.
- Combine the crust ingredients: In a medium bowl, add the finely crushed graham crackers and granulated sugar. Mix these together until they are well combined.
- Add the melted butter to the graham cracker mixture and stir until all the ingredients are fully incorporated, ensuring there are no dry spots. The mixture should have the consistency of wet sand.
- Reserve ΒΌ cup of the graham cracker mixture and set it aside. This will be used to sprinkle on top of the cheesecake later.
- Press the remaining graham cracker mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form an even layer. Set aside while you prepare the filling.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
- Cream the cream cheese and sugar: In a medium bowl, use a hand mixer to cream together the room temperature cream cheese and granulated sugar. Add the vanilla extract and continue mixing until the mixture is smooth and well blended, about 2-3 minutes. Set this mixture aside.
- Prepare the lemon jello: In a separate large bowl, add the lemon jello mix and pour in the boiling water. Whisk the mixture until the jello is completely dissolved, about 1-2 minutes. Then, add the cold water and stir to combine. Place the bowl in the refrigerator for a few minutes to cool slightly while you prepare the evaporated milk, but do not let the gelatin set.
- Whip the evaporated milk: Retrieve the chilled bowl and whisk attachment from the freezer. Pour the chilled evaporated milk into the bowl and use the stand mixer to whip on high speed until soft peaks form, about 5 minutes. This step is essential for achieving the light and fluffy texture of the cheesecake filling.
- Combine the mixtures: Slowly pour the cooled jello mixture into the whipped evaporated milk while continuing to whisk on low speed. Mix for about 30 seconds to combine.
- Incorporate the cream cheese mixture: Add the cream cheese mixture to the bowl and whisk for an additional 30 seconds, or until the filling is smooth and fully combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Cheesecake
- Pour the filling over the prepared graham cracker crust in the baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
- Sprinkle the reserved graham cracker crumbs over the top of the filling to add a bit of texture and a decorative touch.
- Chill the cheesecake: Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator to chill overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the filling to set properly.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the cheesecake has chilled overnight, it is ready to be served. Cut the cheesecake into squares and enjoy this light, fluffy, and lemony treat. The combination of the creamy filling and the crunchy graham cracker crust makes for a delightful dessert that is sure to impress your family and friends.
Tips for the Best Woolworth Icebox Cheesecake
1. Use Room Temperature Cream Cheese
Using room temperature cream cheese ensures that it blends smoothly with the sugar, preventing any lumps in the filling.
2. Chill the Evaporated Milk and Mixing Bowl
Chilling the evaporated milk and the mixing bowl helps the milk whip up to soft peaks, which is crucial for achieving the light and fluffy texture of the cheesecake.
3. Donβt Let the Jello Set
When preparing the jello, make sure to cool it slightly in the refrigerator but do not let it set. It should be cool enough to mix with the evaporated milk without causing it to curdle.
4. Overnight Chilling
Chilling the cheesecake overnight is essential for allowing the flavors to meld and the filling to set properly. This also makes it easier to slice and serve.
Variations to Try
1. Fruit Toppings
Add fresh fruit such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries on top of the cheesecake for a burst of freshness and color.
2. Different Jello Flavors
Try using different flavors of jello to customize the taste of your cheesecake. Lime, strawberry, or orange jello can add a fun twist to the classic lemon flavor.
3. Nutty Crust
Mix crushed nuts, such as pecans or almonds, into the graham cracker crust for added texture and flavor.
4. Whipped Cream Garnish
Top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of lemon zest for an extra touch of elegance.
Serving Suggestions
- As a Standalone Dessert: Serve the cheesecake on its own for a refreshing and satisfying dessert.
- With Fresh Fruit: Pair the cheesecake with a side of fresh fruit or a fruit compote to complement the lemon flavor.
- At Gatherings: This no-bake cheesecake is perfect for potlucks, picnics, and family gatherings. It can be made ahead of time and transported easily.
Nutritional Information
For those mindful of their dietary intake, hereβs a brief nutritional breakdown per serving (based on an approximate serving size):
- Calories: 315 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Sugars: 25g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
The Joy of Making Woolworth Icebox Cheesecake
Making this no-bake cheesecake is not just about creating a delicious dessert; itβs about enjoying the process and the satisfaction of crafting something delightful with your own hands. The simplicity of the recipe combined with the fresh, tangy lemon flavor makes it a joy to prepare and even more enjoyable to eat.
Hosting with Woolworth Icebox Cheesecake
Woolworth Icebox Cheesecake is a fantastic choice for entertaining. Here are a few tips to make it a hit at your next gathering:
- Presentation: Serve the cheesecake on a beautiful platter, garnished with lemon slices or fresh berries to make it look as good as it tastes.
- Personalize: Offer a variety of toppings like whipped cream, fruit sauces, or chocolate shavings so guests can customize their slices.
- Pairing Drinks: Serve with a selection of beverages such as iced tea, lemonade, or sparkling water to complement the cheesecakeβs flavors.
Making Memories with Family and Friends
Baking and enjoying Woolworth Icebox Cheesecake is not just about the delicious flavors; itβs also about making memories with family and friends. Whether youβre baking it with your loved ones, serving it at a gathering, or enjoying it as a simple dessert, itβs a recipe that brings people together.
Storing and Freezing
- In the Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. The cheesecake tastes best when fresh.
- Freezing: You can freeze Woolworth Icebox Cheesecake for up to a month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.
Tips for Success
- Consistent Mixing: Maintain a consistent mixing speed when adding the jello mixture to the whipped evaporated milk to ensure even incorporation.
- Patience with Chilling: Be patient and allow the cheesecake to chill thoroughly in the refrigerator. This ensures the best texture and flavor.
- Clean Equipment: Ensure all your mixing bowls and utensils are thoroughly clean to prevent any contamination that could affect the texture of the cheesecake.
Conclusion
Woolworth Icebox Cheesecake is a light, flavorful, and versatile treat thatβs incredibly easy to make and even easier to enjoy. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a moist, flavorful cheesecake thatβs perfect for any occasion. Whether youβre serving it as a quick dessert, a satisfying snack, or a delectable treat for gatherings, Woolworth Icebox Cheesecake is