Woolworth icebox cheesecake is a delectably light and fluffy no-bake dessert with subtle lemon flavor on top of a graham cracker crust. Easy to make and sure to please at any party or special occasion, this classic Woolworth favorite will surely impress guests!
Making cheesecake is an attainable task with some tips that can help you achieve the best results. The trick lies in packing down the crust and chilling before filling and baking!
Origin and history of the Woolworth cheesecake
Woolworth’s cheesecake, also known as Woolworth Cheesecake Pie, is a beloved dessert with a unique history. It is not associated with the retail chain Woolworth’s itself but rather with a popular recipe that was served at lunch counters and restaurants in the United States, including some within Woolworth stores. Here’s a brief overview of the origin and history of Woolworth’s cheesecake:
- Origin: The exact origin of Woolworth’s cheesecake is somewhat unclear, but it became a staple in American diners and lunch counters during the mid-20th century. It is believed to have gained popularity in the 1930s and 1940s.
- Woolworth’s Connection: While the recipe for Woolworth’s cheesecake was not exclusive to Woolworth’s stores, it was indeed served in some of their lunch counters and restaurants. This association led to the dessert being commonly referred to as “Woolworth cheesecake.”
- Recipe: The Woolworth cheesecake recipe typically consists of a graham cracker crust, a rich and creamy cream cheese filling, and a fruit topping, often with strawberries or cherries. It is a no-bake cheesecake, which makes it relatively easy to prepare.
- Popularity: Woolworth’s cheesecake became popular for its simplicity, affordability, and delicious taste. Many people have fond memories of enjoying a slice of Woolworth’s cheesecake during visits to the lunch counters.
- Continued Popularity: Despite Woolworth’s stores declining and eventually closing in the late 20th century, the recipe for Woolworth’s cheesecake has continued to be shared and enjoyed by home bakers and dessert enthusiasts. It has become a nostalgic dessert for many, with various adaptations and variations.
- Online Presence: The recipe for Woolworth’s cheesecake can be found on numerous cooking websites, in cookbooks, and shared among friends and family. It has gained a dedicated following on social media platforms, where people share their own versions and memories associated with it.
- Variations: Over the years, people have customized the original recipe with different fruit toppings, flavored fillings, and variations to suit their preferences. Some versions incorporate lemon or other citrus flavors, while others experiment with chocolate or caramel toppings.
The Woolworth’s cheesecake is a classic American dessert that gained popularity in the mid-20th century. While it was served in some Woolworth’s stores, its name has endured as a nod to the past, and the recipe has continued to be cherished and adapted by generations of home bakers.
Super Simple to make
If you’re searching for a light and creamy dessert packed with zesty lemon flavor, Woolworth Icebox Cheesecake is your ideal choice. This no-bake cake requires minimal ingredients and takes only minutes to make.
It’s an ideal dessert choice for those who don’t feel like baking, especially during the summer when ovens can get too hot to turn on. This no-bake crust is graham cracker flavored and also features a layer of whipped evaporated milk for extra creaminess.
The no-bake crust for cheesecake is graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. It takes only minutes to make and provides a thick and crunchy base for the dessert.
For the filling, a combination of cream cheese, sugar, lemon juice, and thickened Jell-O is used to achieve its light and airy texture. Finally, you top off the mixture with whipped evaporated milk for an impressive mousse-like cheesecake filling that is sure to wow your guests.
You can freeze this recipe so it’s ready whenever you please! Just remember to start it at least a day ahead so the gelatin has time to thicken. Also, wrap tightly and store in the freezer for extended shelf life; adding a lid helps prevent moisture seepage through and compromise the cake’s texture.
The Graham Cracker base crust
Graham cracker crusts are the ideal foundation for pies, tarts, cheesecakes, and no-bake desserts alike. Their buttery goodness holds up well against fillings like chocolate pudding, banana cream, Greek yogurt tarts or key lime pie!
This crust is made with graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. These three ingredients combine to form a strong bond between the crust and crackers, so it sticks together tightly while baking.
Before pressing them into a pie pan, it is essential to either blend the crackers finely in a food processor or crush them using a rolling pin until they are reduced to crumbs. Doing this makes pressing them into place much easier.
Once all the graham cracker crumbs are mixed with sugar and butter, press them firmly into a pie pan using lightly greased hands or the back of a measuring cup to ensure they stay put when adding your pie filling.
This crust is oven-ready and can be baked or chilled before filling it with your favorite pie recipe. If baking the crust is desired, prebake according to your pie recipe’s instructions and preheat the oven as directed.
The Cheesecake
Woolworth icebox cheesecake is a no bake dessert that’s light and airy with just enough lemon flavoring on top of an irresistible graham cracker crust.
This cheesecake recipe is super straightforward and perfect for summertime. Instead of flour or eggs, the filling is made with cream cheese, sugar, milk and gelatin – creating a light mousse-like consistency.
It also features a water bath to help it set properly and prevent cracking on the surface. All you have to do is place your springform pan inside a roasting pan and fill it with hot water until halfway up its side.
After baking for approximately an hour and a half, remove the cake from the oven. Allow it to cool completely before cutting into squares.
Once the cheesecake has cooled, you can cut it into servings and garnish with your choice of berry sauce or other desired topping. Refrigerating is another option; cheesecake will keep fresh up to one week if stored properly in an airtight container.
This delicious dessert will surely please everyone at your next party. You can even prepare it a day in advance and chill it overnight before serving it.
The Lemon Fluff
This classic Woolworth icebox cheesecake has a delicious graham cracker crust and an irresistibly lemon flavor. Perfect for any event, serve this light and fluffy dessert to your guests!
This recipe is easy to prepare ahead of time and can be stored in the fridge or freezer for up to three months. It makes an ideal dessert for parties and summertime get-togethers – especially when served with whipped cream on top!
Try adding shortbread cookies to the crust for an irresistible twist on this timeless no-bake dessert. Feel free to sprinkle some lemon zest over the top for extra flavor!
To prepare the Fluff, combine pudding mix, lemon juice, and skim milk and stir until well blended.
Once the Fluff has cooled, fold in whipped cream until it is smooth and creamy. You may substitute evaporated milk for whipped cream for a richer dish if desired!
This no-bake dessert requires just 10 minutes of prep time and only needs some ingredients and time. Grab your graham crackers, lemon Jello, and cream cheese – then get ready for some sweet and tangy delight! You won’t be disappointed! Don’t forget to check out my Strawberry Icebox Cheesecake too – another classic American treat you can make at home that’s sure to please the entire family! Remember to leave it out a few hours before serving so the flavors have time to meld together!
The Topping
This dessert features a light, fluffy cheesecake filling with graham cracker crust. With just enough lemon flavoring, it’s super refreshing and light!
This recipe offers a light, airy, creamy, mousse-like texture – just like the iconic Woolworth icebox cheesecake! Plus, it’s simple to make for anyone who appreciates an irresistible dessert.
You can make this recipe using any graham cracker or cookie dough you have on hand, but I suggest using a shortbread crust for that classic Woolworth flavor. Don’t forget to add some toasted almonds for extra crunch!
This no-bake cheesecake is ideal for summer when you don’t want to heat up the oven. You can even slice it into squares and store in your freezer for later.
This dessert is one of my absolute favorites, as it’s so straightforward to make and has such a light and airy taste. Eating is so satisfying that you’ll be addicted in no time! Make extra and freeze some for later; the recipe can last up to 3 months in the freezer!
How to store
Woolworth icebox cheesecake is a no bake dessert with an irresistibly creamy, light texture and zesty lemon flavor that’s ideal for summertime when you want something light yet sweet without heating up your house.
This no bake cheesecake features a graham cracker crust and lemon jello filling that’s super simple to make – perfect for parties!
To make this delicious icebox cheesecake, start by melting butter to hold together graham cracker crumbs. Next, mix cream cheese and sugar together before stirring in jello. Beat until well mixed throughout.
Once everything is thoroughly mixed, transfer it to your prepared graham cracker crust. Spread evenly and sprinkle with some extra crumbs for a crunchy finish.
This dessert is delicious on its own, but it also makes a wonderful addition to any picnic or barbecue. Serve it straight from the pan or slice it into bite-sized squares for effortless serving!
Woolworth icebox cheesecake can be stored in the freezer. Just be sure to place it in an airtight container with a lid on top, to prevent moisture from seeping into the cheesecake.
Though this recipe is straightforward and straightforward to prepare, it’s best to freeze the cheesecake in smaller pieces for optimal freshness. That way, you can quickly thaw it out when serving and enjoy without worrying about freezer burn!
Classic Woolworth Icebox (no-Bake) Cheesecake Recipe
Approximate Prep Time
- 10 minutes
Approximate Refrigeration Time
- 2 hours
Approximate Total Cook Time
- 2 hours and 10 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 3oz lemon gelatin
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 box graham cracker crumbs (3 cups) more for thicker crust divided
- 1 stick melted butter
- 1 8oz cream cheese
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 5 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 can evaporated milk, well chilled or 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
Preparation Directions
- Dissolve lemon gelatin in boiling water. Cool until slightly thickened.
- Mix 3/4 graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until well blended, and press into the bottom of the 9 X 13 pan to form a crust. Save the rest of the crumbs to sprinkle on top of the dessert.
- Beat the Evaporated milk/heavy cream until fluffy.
- In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar and lemon juice with a mixer until smooth.
- Add thickened Jell-O and slowly mix in whipped evaporated milk.
- Spread filling over the crust and sprinkle with reserved graham cracker crumbs on top.
- Chill for at least 2 hours or overnight, store covered in refrigerator.
Servings
- Makes about 8 servings
