Aunt Sara'S Cheese Cake

Prep: 20 min Cuisine: American

A refreshing and creamy cheese cake with a tangy pineapple flavor, complemented by a light lemon jello topping. Perfect for summer gatherings or casual desserts, this treat combines smooth cream cheese with sweet pineapple and a hint of lemon, appealing to both fruit lovers and cheesecake enthusiasts.

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Ingredients

  • 1 large can evaporated milk, chilled overnight
  • 1 box small lemon jello
  • 1 cup boiling water
  • 1 (8 oz.) cream cheese
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 (No. 3) can crushed pineapple, drained

Instructions

  1. Mix the lemon jello with boiling water until dissolved.
  2. Place the mixture in the refrigerator to thicken slightly.
  3. Meanwhile, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth.
  4. Add the chilled evaporated milk and crushed pineapple to the cream cheese mixture and blend well.
  5. Pour the slightly thickened jello over the mixture and stir to combine.
  6. Refrigerate until fully set before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter texture, ensure the evaporated milk is very cold before whipping. If you don't have lemon jello, you can substitute with lime jello for a different flavor. For a more tropical twist, consider adding shredded coconut or using fresh fruit instead of crushed pineapple. Make sure to drain the pineapple well to avoid excess moisture in the cheesecake.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this cheesecake chilled for the best flavor and texture. It pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or fresh fruit on top, such as strawberries or blueberries. Consider serving it alongside a refreshing 7-Cup Fruit Salad for a delightful dessert spread. For added crunch, crushed nuts can also be sprinkled on top.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you wish to freeze the cheesecake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and it can last up to 2 months. To enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving; avoid microwaving, as it may alter the texture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Aunt Sara'S Cheese Cake contains roughly 498 calories, with 10g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (32% of the Daily Value), iron (27% of the Daily Value), and calcium (22% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 488mg per serving (21% of the Daily Value).

498 kcal 25% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 10.1g 20% DV
Total Fat 24.4g 31% DV
Carbs 61.4g 22% DV
Fiber 2.6g 9% DV
Sugar 28.3g 57% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 487.6mg 21% DV
Potassium 340.5mg 7% DV
Cholesterol 57.4mg 19% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 288.1mcg 32% DV
Vitamin C 19.6mg 22% DV
Vitamin D 1.3mcg 6% DV
Calcium 290mg 22% DV
Iron 4.9mg 27% DV
Contains Milk

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different flavor of jello?

Yes, you can experiment with different flavors of jello like lime or orange to create variations of this cheesecake. Just be mindful that the flavor profile will change, so choose a flavor that complements the sweetness of the cream cheese and pineapple.

How long does it take for the cheesecake to set?

Typically, the cheesecake will need at least 4-6 hours in the refrigerator to fully set. For best results, it’s recommended to make it the day before serving, allowing it to chill overnight for a firmer texture.

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cheesecake can be made 1-2 days in advance. Just ensure it is well covered and stored in the refrigerator. It maintains its flavor and texture well, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert for gatherings.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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