Craving a taste of nostalgia? Dive into the delightful world of Woolworths’ no-bake lemon cheesecake recipe that has stood the test of time since the 1960s. This vintage dessert, once a staple at Woolworths lunch counters, combines tangy lemon flavors with a lusciously creamy filling, all nestled in a classic graham cracker crust. With just 5 minutes of prep time and 8 hours of chilling, you can recreate this iconic treat in the comfort of your own kitchen.
The Woolworth Cheesecake, named after the beloved Five and Ten Stores, may have bid farewell in 1997, but its legacy lives on through this simple yet irresistible recipe. Whether you’re a lemon dessert enthusiast or a cheesecake lover, this no-bake delight is a must-try for any season. So, grab your mixer and get ready to whip up a dessert that promises to evoke fond memories and satisfy your sweet cravings.
Ingredients
Crust Ingredients
- 3 oz package lemon gelatin mix (like Royal or Jello)
- 1 cup boiling water
- 3 cups graham cracker crumbs, divided
- 8 tablespoons melted butter
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 5 tablespoons lemon juice
- 12 oz can evaporated milk, well chilled (or 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream)
Equipment Needed
To create this delicious Woolworths no-bake lemon cheesecake, you will need a few essential kitchen tools. Here’s a list of the equipment required:
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Spatula
- 9 x 13-inch baking pan
- Small saucepan
- Food processor (or a zip-top bag and rolling pin)
- Microwave or stovetop for melting butter
Preparation Steps
Creating Woolworths’ iconic no-bake lemon cheesecake is a delightful experience. Let’s dive into the preparation steps to craft this creamy and tangy dessert.
Preparing the Crust
- Mix 3 cups of graham cracker crumbs with ¾ cup of powdered sugar and 8 tablespoons of melted butter.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 13×9 inch pan, ensuring a compact and even layer.
- Place the pan in the freezer to set the crust before adding the luscious lemon cheesecake filling.
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, sugar, and fresh lemon juice.
- Beat the mixture with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the thickened lemon gelatin and gently fold in whipped evaporated milk or heavy cream until well incorporated.
- Spread this velvety filling over the chilled graham cracker crust, ensuring an even layer.
- Sprinkle the reserved graham cracker crumbs on top for added texture and flavor.
- Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results. Enjoy this nostalgic dessert chilled and share the joy of this classic recipe with your loved ones.
Assembling the Cheesecake
Now comes the exciting part – assembling the delightful Woolworths no-bake lemon cheesecake! Follow these simple steps to bring together all the delicious components into one mouthwatering dessert:
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and fresh lemon juice. Use an electric mixer to blend the ingredients until smooth and well-combined.
- Incorporate the Gelatin and Cream Mixture:
- Add the slightly thickened lemon gelatin mixture to the cream cheese mixture. Stir gently to incorporate the gelatin into the creamy filling.
- Fold in the Whipped Cream:
- Carefully fold in the whipped evaporated milk or heavy whipping cream until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step will help give the cheesecake its airy and creamy texture.
- Layering the Cheesecake:
- Spread the prepared cheesecake filling over the graham cracker crust in an even layer. Use a spatula to smooth the top for a polished finish.
- Final Touches and Chilling:
- Sprinkle the remaining graham cracker crumbs on top of the cheesecake for added texture and flavor. Cover the cheesecake and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the dessert to set.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once chilled, slice the Woolworths no-bake lemon cheesecake into squares or slices. Serve this refreshing and creamy dessert to delight your taste buds and those of your guests.
By following these straightforward steps, you’ll have a beautifully assembled Woolworths no-bake lemon cheesecake ready to be enjoyed. The combination of tangy lemon flavor, creamy filling, and buttery graham cracker crust makes this dessert a perfect treat for any occasion.
Chilling the Cheesecake
After completing the assembling process of this delightful Woolworths no-bake lemon cheesecake recipe, the final step is crucial to achieve the perfect texture and flavor. Here’s how to properly chill the cheesecake to ensure it sets beautifully:
- Cover and Refrigerate: Once the cheesecake has been assembled in the baking dish, cover it with plastic wrap. This will help prevent any odors from the refrigerator from seeping into the dessert.
- Chill Overnight: Place the cheesecake in the refrigerator and let it chill overnight. This extended chilling time allows the flavors to meld together and the cheesecake to set properly.
- Ensure Firmness: The cheesecake should be shiny and firm to the touch when you’re ready to serve. This indicates that it has set properly and is ready to be enjoyed.
- Storage: If you want to save some for later, you can freeze the cheesecake. Wrap the entire baking dish in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
By following these simple steps for chilling the cheesecake, you’ll be rewarded with a lusciously creamy and tangy dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.
Serving and Presentation Tips
To elevate the serving and presentation of this Woolworths no-bake lemon cheesecake, here are some tips to ensure a delightful experience for your guests:
- Garnish with Fresh Lemon Zest: Before serving, grate some fresh lemon zest over the top of the cheesecake. The vibrant yellow zest not only adds a pop of color but also intensifies the citrus aroma and flavor.
- Create a Whipped Cream Swirl: Just before serving, pipe a swirl of homemade whipped cream on each slice of cheesecake. This not only adds a creamy element but also enhances the overall look of the dessert.
- Add a Lemon Slice for Garnish: For an extra touch of elegance, decorate each plate with a thin slice of lemon alongside the cheesecake. It provides a visual appeal and a hint of extra lemon flavor.
- Serve Chilled: For the best taste and texture, ensure the cheesecake is properly chilled before serving. The firmness of the cheesecake improves when it has had enough time to set in the refrigerator, so aim for at least 2 hours or overnight for optimal results.
- Use a Sharp Knife: When ready to serve, use a sharp knife to cut clean slices. Dip the knife in warm water between cuts to ensure a smooth and neat presentation.
- Store Properly: If there are any leftovers, cover the cheesecake securely with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. This will help maintain freshness and prevent it from absorbing other odors.
By following these serving and presentation tips, you can showcase this delicious Woolworths no-bake lemon cheesecake in a visually appealing and inviting manner, ensuring that every bite is a delightful experience.
Storage Instructions
Proper storage is essential to maintain the freshness and quality of your Woolworths no-bake lemon cheesecake. Follow these storage instructions to ensure your dessert stays delicious:
Refrigerating Your Cheesecake
After preparing and chilling your Woolworths no-bake lemon cheesecake, cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing it in the refrigerator. Store the cheesecake in the coldest part of your fridge to maintain its texture and flavors. Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 2 hours before serving, allowing it to set and develop the perfect creamy consistency.
Freezing and Thawing Guidelines
If you plan to freeze your Woolworths no-bake lemon cheesecake, ensure it is well-covered to prevent freezer burn. Place the dessert in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to enjoy your frozen cheesecake, transfer it to the refrigerator and thaw overnight. Avoid refreezing the cheesecake once it has thawed to maintain its quality and taste.
Conclusion
I hope this article has inspired you to try Woolworths’ timeless no-bake lemon cheesecake recipe. Its iconic blend of zesty lemon and creamy texture makes it a delightful treat for any occasion. By following the simple steps outlined here, you can create a dessert that is sure to impress your family and friends. Remember to chill the cheesecake properly to enhance its flavors and ensure a perfect consistency. With the storage tips provided, you can enjoy this delectable dessert whenever the craving strikes. Embrace the tradition of this classic recipe and savor every bite of its lusciously creamy and tangy goodness.