Explore the nostalgia of Woolworth’s lunch counter with a timeless dessert: No-Bake Woolworth Icebox Cheesecake. This classic lemon cheesecake recipe, once a staple of Woolworths, has resurfaced to delight modern taste buds. Easy to prepare and refreshingly light, it offers a delightful treat for any occasion. Join us as we recreate this beloved dessert and bask in its creamy goodness.
Ingredients:
- 1 (3 oz.) package lemon Jell-O
- 1 cup boiling water
- 3 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, melted
- 1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 (12 oz.) can evaporated milk, chilled
How to Make No-Bake Woolworth Icebox Cheesecake:
1. Dissolve the Jell-O:
a. In a medium bowl, dissolve the lemon Jell-O in boiling water. Allow it to cool for 5-10 minutes or until slightly thickened.
2. Prepare the Crust:
a. Mix 3/4 of the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter in a medium bowl.
b. Press the crumb mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan, reserving the remaining crumbs for topping. Set aside.
3. Whip the Evaporated Milk:
a. In a medium bowl, beat the chilled evaporated milk until whipped and fluffy, about 2-4 minutes.
4. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
a. In a separate large bowl, beat the cream cheese, granulated sugar, and lemon juice together until smooth.
b. Add the thickened Jell-O to the cream cheese mixture and fold in the whipped evaporated milk until well combined.
5. Assemble and Chill:
a. Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the prepared crust.
b. Sprinkle the reserved graham cracker crumbs on top of the filling.
c. Cover the pan and chill the cheesecake in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, until set.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
a. Once chilled, slice the cheesecake into squares, serve, and indulge in the creamy, lemony goodness of Woolworth’s Icebox Cheesecake.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
Q1: Can I use gelatin instead of Jell-O?
A1: Yes, you can substitute gelatin for the Jell-O in this recipe. Simply follow the instructions on the gelatin package to prepare it before adding it to the cream cheese mixture.
Q2: Can I use low-fat cream cheese or evaporated milk?
A2: While you can use low-fat cream cheese and evaporated milk, keep in mind that it may affect the texture and richness of the cheesecake.
Q3: How long does the cheesecake need to chill?
A3: It’s best to chill the cheesecake for at least 2 hours, but overnight chilling is recommended for the best texture and flavor.
Q4: Can I add fruit or other toppings to this cheesecake?
A4: Absolutely! Feel free to customize your cheesecake with fresh fruit, fruit compote, or whipped cream for added flavor and presentation.
Conclusion:
No-Bake Woolworth Icebox Cheesecake brings the charm of yesteryears into the modern kitchen, offering a delightful taste of nostalgia with every creamy bite. Recreating this beloved dessert allows us to relive the cherished memories of Woolworths’ iconic lunch counter and savor the simplicity of its flavors.
As we’ve embarked on this culinary journey, we’ve discovered the ease and joy of preparing a dessert that requires no baking yet delivers maximum satisfaction. The creamy texture of the cheesecake, paired with the zesty tang of lemon Jell-O, creates a symphony of flavors that dance on the palate.
Whether enjoyed as a sweet ending to a meal or as a refreshing treat on a warm day, No-Bake Woolworth Icebox Cheesecake captivates with its simplicity and indulgence. So, gather your ingredients, whip up a batch of this delightful dessert, and let the flavors transport you to a bygone era of comfort and contentment.
With each slice of this creamy delight, we invite you to savor the memories and create new ones, sharing the joy of Woolworth’s Icebox Cheesecake with friends and family. Happy indulging!