This No Bake Classic Woolworth Cheesecake is the ultimate throwback dessert, bringing creamy, citrus-kissed nostalgia to your table without even turning on the oven. Itโs light, fluffy, and a little tangy, making it a perfect treat for warmer months or when youโre short on time but still want something that tastes like it came straight from grandmaโs kitchen.
The best part? It uses everyday ingredients and simple techniques to create a dessert thatโs impressive enough for guests but easy enough for a weeknight indulgence. With its graham cracker crust and lemony cream cheese filling, this no-bake cheesecake holds its own against more complicated baked versions.
Why Youโll Love This No Bake Classic Woolworth Cheesecake
Youโll fall in love with how simple yet flavorful this dessert is. It combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with a bright lemon twist that keeps things fresh. The texture is airy and mousse-like, making each bite melt in your mouth. Whether youโre hosting a potluck or craving something sweet after dinner, this cheesecake hits the mark.
It stores beautifully in the fridge and tastes even better the next day, giving the flavors time to fully blend. And because it doesnโt require baking, itโs a fantastic make-ahead option when youโre juggling a busy schedule.
Can I Use a Different Crust for This Cheesecake?
Absolutely! While the graham cracker crust is a classic choice and pairs wonderfully with the zesty filling, you can definitely experiment. Try using crushed vanilla wafers, shortbread cookies, or even a chocolate cookie base for a fun twist. Just make sure the crust is firmly packed and chilled before you add the filling to keep everything stable and sliceable.
Ingredients for the No Bake Classic Woolworth Cheesecake
This dessert keeps it old-school and uncomplicated, with a lineup of ingredients that might already be in your pantry. Each plays an important role in building the flavor and structure of the cheesecake.
Evaporated milk
This is whipped to create a light and fluffy texture, helping the cheesecake hold its mousse-like structure.
Lemon gelatin
The key to that signature tang and structure. It adds just the right touch of citrus and helps the filling set without baking.
Cream cheese
For that classic, rich cheesecake flavor. Be sure to soften it so it blends smoothly.
Granulated sugar
Adds sweetness and balances the tartness of the lemon gelatin and cream cheese.
Lemon juice
Enhances the citrus flavor and brings everything to life.
Vanilla extract
Adds a soft, sweet depth that rounds out the flavors.
Graham crackers
Crushed and used for the buttery, slightly sweet crust.
Butter
Melted and mixed with graham crackers to hold the crust together.

How To Make the No Bake Classic Woolworth Cheesecake
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Combine the crushed graham crackers and melted butter until well blended. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9ร13-inch baking dish. Chill in the fridge while you work on the filling.
Step 2: Dissolve the Lemon Gelatin
In a small bowl, dissolve the lemon gelatin in hot water. Set aside to cool to room temperature, but donโt let it set completely.
Step 3: Whip the Evaporated Milk
Pour the chilled evaporated milk into a large bowl and whip on high speed until fluffy and doubled in volume. This can take several minutes.
Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Mixture
In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Slowly add in the cooled lemon gelatin and blend thoroughly.
Step 5: Combine the Mixtures
Gently fold the whipped evaporated milk into the cream cheese mixture. Take your time to keep the fluffiness intact.
Step 6: Assemble and Chill
Pour the mixture over the prepared crust and smooth the top. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, until fully set. Slice and serve chilled.
How to Serve and Store This Cheesecake
This no bake cheesecake is ideal for making ahead. After setting in the refrigerator, it slices beautifully and stays firm. Serve chilled, straight from the fridge, and you can add a dollop of whipped cream or fresh berries if youโd like to dress it up.
It can feed about 12 people depending on how you slice it, making it perfect for parties or family gatherings. To store leftovers, cover the dish with foil or transfer slices to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
What to Serve With Cheesecake?
Fresh Berries
Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries add a juicy, tart contrast to the creamy filling.
Whipped Cream
A fluffy topping that gives extra richness without overpowering the cheesecake.
Lemon Curd
Enhance that citrus flavor by drizzling some tangy lemon curd on top.
Iced Coffee
Pair it with a glass of cold brew or iced latte to balance the sweetness.
Mint Garnish
Add a fresh pop of color and subtle flavor contrast.
Crushed Nuts
A sprinkle of toasted almonds or pecans adds crunch and nutty depth.
Chocolate Drizzle
For a decadent spin, add a light chocolate drizzle right before serving.
Sweet Tea
Especially during summer, sweet tea brings a Southern touch to the experience.
Want More Cheesecake Ideas?
If youโre a cheesecake fan, youโll love exploring more no-fuss or flavor-packed desserts like these:
- Best Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries
- Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes
- Ooey Gooey Bars
- Old Time Oven Peach Cobbler
- Cherry Topped Coconut Macaroons
Save This Recipe For Later
๐ Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go classic or mix it up with a different crust or topping?
I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome tooโletโs help each other bake smarter.
Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks on Mia Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feeling great!

No Bake Classic Woolworth Cheesecake
- Total Time: 4 hours
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This No Bake Classic Woolworth Cheesecake is a light, fluffy dessert with lemony flavor and vintage charm. With creamy evaporated milk, tangy lemon gelatin, and a classic graham cracker crust, itโs an easy and refreshing no-bake cheesecake for any occasion. Perfect for spring and summer gatherings or as a nostalgic treat!
Ingredients
1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk, chilled
1 package (3 oz) lemon gelatin
1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup butter, melted
Instructions
1. Combine the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter. Press into the bottom of a 9ร13-inch dish and refrigerate.
2. Dissolve the lemon gelatin in hot water and let it cool to room temperature.
3. Whip the chilled evaporated milk until fluffy and doubled in volume.
4. In another bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla until smooth.
5. Blend in the cooled gelatin to the cream cheese mixture until fully combined.
6. Gently fold in the whipped evaporated milk until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
7. Pour over the prepared crust and smooth the top.
8. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until set.
9. Slice and serve chilled. Add optional toppings like berries or whipped cream.
Notes
This cheesecake is best made the day before for optimal flavor.
Make sure your evaporated milk is well-chilled for better volume.
For a flavor twist, substitute lemon gelatin with lime or orange.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of dish)
- Calories: 275
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 35mg


