Woolworth Ice Box Cheesecake:

Woolworth Ice Box Cheesecake is a vintage dessert recipe that was popularized by the Woolworth’s lunch counters in the mid-20th century. It’s a no-bake cheesecake that sets in the refrigerator, making it a convenient and creamy dessert. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup heavy cream

For the Topping:

• 1 (21-ounce) can of fruit pie filling (cherry, blueberry, or your choice)

Instructions:

Prepare the Crust:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated with the butter and sugar.
2. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form the crust. You can use the back of a spoon or your hands to pack it down.
3. Place the crust in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling.

Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract to the cream cheese and continue to beat until the mixture is well combined.
3. In a separate mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
4. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined. Be careful not to deflate the whipped cream.

Assemble the Cheesecake:

1. Remove the crust from the refrigerator.
2. Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the graham cracker crust.

Chill the Cheesecake:

1. Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or a lid.
2. Place the cheesecake in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.

Add the Topping:

1. Before serving, spread the fruit pie filling over the chilled cheesecake layer.
2. You can use cherry, blueberry, or any fruit filling of your choice.

Serve:

Cut the Woolworth Ice Box Cheesecake into squares and serve it chilled. Enjoy your creamy and nostalgic dessert!

This no-bake cheesecake is a classic treat that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion.