Woolworth Icebox Cheesecake, also known as No-Bake Woolworth Cheesecake, is a vintage recipe that’s cherished for its simplicity and deliciousness. It’s a nostalgic dessert that’s easy to make and requires no baking, making it perfect for hot summer days or when you need a quick and satisfying sweet treat. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz (two 8 oz packages) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy cream, chilled
For the Topping:
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling or fruit topping of your choice
Instructions:
- Prepare the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand and all the crumbs are evenly coated with butter.
- Press into Pan: Press the crumb mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish or a similar-sized pan to form the crust. Use the back of a spoon or a flat-bottomed glass to pack it down.
- Chill the Crust: Place the crust in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the cheesecake filling.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and continue to beat until well combined and fluffy.
- Whip the Heavy Cream: In a separate mixing bowl, whip the chilled heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until smooth and evenly combined. This creates a light and airy cheesecake filling.
- Spread Filling Over Crust: Remove the crust from the refrigerator and spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the chilled crust layer.
- Chill the Cheesecake: Cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow it to set and firm up.
- Add Topping: Once the cheesecake is fully chilled and set, spoon the cherry pie filling or your desired fruit topping evenly over the top of the cheesecake layer.
- Slice and Serve: Use a sharp knife to slice the cheesecake into squares or rectangles. Serve chilled and enjoy the creamy, indulgent goodness!
Tips:
- For a different flavor variation, you can use different fruit toppings such as blueberry, strawberry, or peach instead of cherry pie filling.
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened at room temperature to ensure a smooth and creamy texture in the filling.
- You can also use a store-bought graham cracker crust to save time if desired.
- To make the dessert more festive, garnish each slice with a dollop of whipped cream and a cherry on top.
Conclusion: Woolworth Icebox Cheesecake is a timeless dessert that’s loved for its simplicity and delicious taste. With its creamy cheesecake filling, buttery graham cracker crust, and fruity topping, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering or family dinner. Whip up a batch of this classic recipe and enjoy the nostalgia of this beloved dessert!
