Indulge in the creamy and dreamy flavors of a classic dessert with this No Bake Woolworth’s Cheesecake. This recipe pays homage to the famous Woolworth’s lunch counters, where this delightful cheesecake became a favorite among diners. With its smooth texture, graham cracker crust, and rich cream cheese filling, this cheesecake is not only simple to make but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Perfect for any occasion, it requires no baking, making it a convenient treat for both novice and experienced bakers alike.
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
For the filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
For the topping (optional):
- Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries)
- Chocolate shavings or whipped cream
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust:
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated and resemble wet sand.
- Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Use the back of a measuring cup or your fingers to ensure it’s tightly packed. Chill the crust in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling.
- Make the Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. This adds a lightness to the cheesecake filling.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula until no white streaks remain. Be careful not to deflate the whipped cream.
- Assemble the Cheesecake:
- Pour the creamy filling over the chilled graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Smooth the top and cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow it to set properly.
- Serve:
- Once set, carefully remove the sides of the springform pan. Slice the cheesecake into wedges.
- Top with fresh berries, chocolate shavings, or whipped cream if desired. Serve chilled and enjoy!