Irene'S Cheesecake

Prep: 30 min Serves: 19 Cuisine: American

Irene's Cheesecake combines creamy, tangy lemon flavors with a crunchy graham cracker crust, making it a delightful and refreshing dessert perfect for gatherings and special occasions.

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Ingredients

  • 1 (3 oz.) pkg. lemon Jell-O
  • 1 cup boiling water
  • 1 (8 oz.) pkg. cream cheese
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 3 Tbsp. lemon juice
  • 1 can Milnot evaporated milk, chilled
  • 3 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1 stick melted margarine

Instructions

  1. Make the graham cracker crust by mixing graham cracker crumbs with melted margarine.
  2. Press the crust firmly into a 7 x 13 x 2-inch pan.
  3. Dissolve the lemon Jell-O in boiling water and chill until slightly thickened.
  4. Cream together cream cheese, sugar, and lemon juice until smooth.
  5. Add the thickened Jell-O to the cream cheese mixture and blend well.
  6. Fold in stiffly beaten chilled evaporated milk (Milnot).
  7. Pour the filling into the prepared crust and sprinkle with finely chopped pecans.
  8. Chill the cheesecake overnight before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a smoother texture, ensure the cream cheese is softened before mixing. If you prefer a different flavor, consider using lime or orange gelatin instead of lemon. To enhance the crust, try adding some finely crushed nuts or using Graham Cracker Cookies(No Bake) for a unique texture. If you want a denser cheesecake, reduce the amount of evaporated milk slightly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the cheesecake chilled, garnished with fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra touch. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a complete dessert experience, consider serving alongside a light fruit salad or some whipped cream. This cheesecake is a delightful finish to any meal, especially when paired with Creamy Chilled Cheesecake.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you'd like to freeze the cheesecake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil; it can last for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving. Avoid reheating, as this cheesecake is best enjoyed chilled.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Irene'S Cheesecake contains roughly 175 calories, with 3g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is a good source of iron (10% of the Daily Value).

175 kcal 9% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 3.4g 7% DV
Total Fat 8.4g 11% DV
Carbs 21.9g 8% DV
Fiber 0.9g 3% DV
Sugar 10.4g 21% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 168.7mg 7% DV
Potassium 119.8mg 3% DV
Cholesterol 12.6mg 4% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 77.7mcg 9% DV
Vitamin C 4.9mg 5% DV
Vitamin D 0.4mcg 2% DV
Calcium 100.9mg 8% DV
Iron 1.8mg 10% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal
Contains Milk Wheat/Gluten

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 type of gelatin in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute lemon Jell-O with other flavors like lime, orange, or even berry flavors to create a different taste profile. Just keep in mind that the flavor will significantly change depending on your choice, but it can be a fun way to customize your cheesecake.

What if I don't have Milnot evaporated milk?

If you don't have Milnot evaporated milk, you can use regular evaporated milk or even heavy cream as a substitute. Just make sure to chill it beforehand, as this will help achieve the desired consistency when folding it into the mixture.

Can I make this cheesecake gluten-free?

Absolutely! To make this cheesecake gluten-free, simply use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs for the crust. Many brands offer gluten-free options, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delicious dessert without worry.

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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