Chiffon Cheese Delight
A light and fluffy lemon-flavored dessert with a creamy cheese layer, crunchy graham cracker crust, perfect for summer gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve the lemon jello in boiling water and set aside to cool.
- Cream together lemon juice, sugar, and cream cheese until smooth.
- Add the prepared jello mixture into the creamed mixture and blend well.
- Combine graham cracker crumbs and oleo (margarine or butter) until the mixture is moist.
- Press half of the crumb mixture into the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch pan to form a crust.
- Pour the lemon jello and cheese mixture over the crust.
- Sprinkle the remaining crumbs on top of the filling.
- Chill the dessert until set before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, use low-fat cream cheese and a sugar substitute. Ensure the boiling water is hot enough to fully dissolve the jello. If you prefer a more tart flavor, consider adding a bit more lemon juice. For a twist, try adding a layer of fresh fruit, like berries, between the crust and filling. This dessert can also be made in individual cups for a fun presentation.
Serving Suggestions
Serve chilled, garnished with whipped cream or a sprinkle of lemon zest for an extra burst of flavor. This dessert pairs beautifully with Mrs. Elizabeth Jackson'S Graham Cracker Candy for a delightful treat. For a complete meal, consider a light salad on the side, such as a Delicious Deli Salad, to balance the sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the crust's texture, avoid stacking the layers directly on top of each other. If you need to reheat, allow it to come to room temperature before serving, as chilling enhances the flavors and texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chiffon Cheese Delight contains roughly 314 calories, with 5g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 jello flavors, such as raspberry or orange, to create variations of this dessert. Just keep in mind that the acidity and sweetness might change, so adjust the lemon juice and sugar as needed to maintain balance.
How do I know when the dessert is set?
The dessert is set when the filling is firm to the touch and doesn’t jiggle when you gently shake the pan. This usually takes about 3-4 hours in the refrigerator, but for best results, leave it overnight to ensure it’s completely firm before serving.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dessert can be made a day in advance, making it perfect for gatherings. Just be sure to store it covered in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight, enhancing the overall taste.
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).