Description
This No-Bake Woolworth Icebox Cheesecake is a classic American dessert featuring a creamy lemon gelatin-infused cream cheese filling set atop a buttery graham cracker crust. Whipped evaporated milk adds airy lightness, while the no-bake preparation makes it an easy yet impressive treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Filling
- 1 (3 oz) package lemon gelatin
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk, well chilled
Crust
- 2 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Dissolve Gelatin: In a medium bowl, dissolve the lemon gelatin in boiling water and set aside to cool to room temperature.
- Beat Cream Cheese Mixture: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract together until smooth and creamy.
- Whip Evaporated Milk: In a separate bowl, whip the chilled evaporated milk for about 3–5 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Combine Mixtures: Gently fold the whipped evaporated milk and the cooled gelatin mixture into the cream cheese mixture until thoroughly combined and smooth.
- Prepare Crust: In a small bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until all crumbs are evenly coated.
- Form Crust Layer: Press about two-thirds of the graham cracker mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form an even crust.
- Assemble Cheesecake: Pour the cheesecake filling evenly over the crust layer, spreading it smoothly.
- Add Topping: Sprinkle the remaining graham cracker crumb mixture evenly on top of the cheesecake filling.
- Chill: Cover the baking dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until fully set.
- Serve: Slice into squares and serve chilled for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Ensure the evaporated milk is very cold before whipping to achieve maximum volume and lightness.
- For a flavor variation, substitute lemon gelatin with lime or orange gelatin.
- Press the crust firmly to prevent crumbling when slicing.
- Chilling time can be extended overnight for firmer texture.
