Sammy'S Favorite Cheesecake
A creamy lemon-flavored cheesecake with a graham cracker crust, perfect for gatherings and those who love tangy, sweet desserts with a smooth texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chill the evaporated milk until very cold.
- Dissolve the lemon Jell-O in boiling water and set aside to cool.
- Cream together lemon juice, 1 cup of sugar, and cream cheese until smooth.
- Add the cooled Jell-O mixture to the cream cheese mixture and let it cool.
- Whip the chilled evaporated milk until stiff peaks form.
- Fold the whipped milk into the cream cheese mixture.
- Prepare the crust by mixing graham cracker crumbs, 1/2 cup sugar, and melted margarine, then press into the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Pour the filling into the crust and chill until set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using low-fat cream cheese or a sugar substitute in place of regular sugar. You can also enhance the flavor by adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. Make sure the evaporated milk is thoroughly chilled for the best whipping results. If you're short on time, pre-made graham cracker crusts can be a convenient alternative.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cheesecake chilled, garnished with fresh berries or a drizzle of fruit sauce for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a festive touch, consider serving it alongside Scramble Egg Muffins for a delightful brunch spread. You can also dust with powdered sugar or add whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To maintain its texture, avoid freezing, as it may alter the consistency. If you do freeze, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving to help retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sammy'S Favorite Cheesecake contains roughly 1164 calories, with 16g protein, 108g carbohydrates, and 76g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (47% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (41% of the Daily Value), and calcium (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1080mg per serving (47% of the Daily Value).
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 Jell-O?
Yes, you can experiment with other flavors of Jell-O to create different variations of this cheesecake. Just ensure that the flavor complements the overall taste, such as using strawberry or raspberry for a fruity twist. Adjust the sugar level if the Jell-O flavor is sweeter or more tart than lemon.
How do I know when the cheesecake is set?
How do I know when the cheesecake is set?
Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cheesecake can be made a day or two in advance, making it perfect for parties or gatherings. Just be sure to store it properly in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. The flavors often improve after a day as they meld together, 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).