Low-Point Woolworth Ice Box Cheesecake: A Classic Reimagined
Introduction
The Woolworth Ice Box Cheesecake is a nostalgic dessert that has captured the hearts of many with its creamy texture and delightful flavor. Originally enjoyed as a no-bake treat, this version offers a healthier twist to fit within your Weight Watchers (WW) points. This guide will walk you through every step of creating a low-point version of this beloved cheesecake, complete with detailed instructions, measurements, nutritional information, and SmartPoints calculations. You’ll find tips to make this recipe not just a dessert but a memorable experience.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs – 4 SmartPoints
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce – 0 SmartPoints
- 2 tablespoons light butter, melted – 3 SmartPoints
- 1 tablespoon sugar substitute (like Stevia or Erythritol) – 0 SmartPoints
Filling
- 2 (8 oz) packages of reduced-fat cream cheese, softened – 10 SmartPoints
- 1 cup nonfat Greek yogurt – 2 SmartPoints
- 3/4 cup sugar substitute (like Stevia or Erythritol) – 0 SmartPoints
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – 0 SmartPoints
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice – 0 SmartPoints
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest – 0 SmartPoints
Topping (Optional)
- Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries) – 0 SmartPoints
- Whipped topping (light or sugar-free) – 1 SmartPoint per serving, if used
Equipment Needed
- 9-inch springform pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Plastic wrap or aluminum foil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This initial step is essential for achieving a crisp crust.
Step 2: Combine Crust Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce, 2 tablespoons of melted light butter, and 1 tablespoon of sugar substitute. Stir the mixture until all ingredients are evenly incorporated, creating a wet crumb mixture.
Step 3: Press the Crust into the Pan
Grease the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan lightly with cooking spray. Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan, ensuring it is evenly distributed. Use the back of a measuring cup or your fingers to pack it down tightly.
Step 4: Bake the Crust
Place the crust in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden. This step enhances the flavor and texture of the crust. Once baked, remove from the oven and allow it to cool completely.
Step 5: Prepare the Filling
While the crust is cooling, prepare the filling. In a mixing bowl, beat 2 packages of softened reduced-fat cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 6: Add Greek Yogurt
Once the cream cheese is smooth, add 1 cup of nonfat Greek yogurt to the bowl. This ingredient adds protein and creaminess to the filling while keeping it light.
Step 7: Sweeten the Filling
Add 3/4 cup of sugar substitute, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon of lemon zest to the mixture. Beat until well combined and smooth, scraping down the sides of the bowl as necessary.
Step 8: Pour the Filling into the Crust
Once the filling is ready, pour it over the cooled crust in the springform pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, smoothing the top.
Step 9: Chill the Cheesecake
Cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and the cheesecake to set properly.
Step 10: Prepare for Serving
After the cheesecake has chilled, remove it from the refrigerator. Carefully release the sides of the springform pan and remove it, revealing the beautiful crust and filling.
Step 11: Add Toppings (Optional)
If desired, top the cheesecake with fresh berries for a burst of color and flavor. You can also add a dollop of light or sugar-free whipped topping on each slice when serving.
Step 12: Slice and Serve
Using a sharp knife, slice the cheesecake into 8 servings. Serve immediately, or keep it chilled until ready to serve.
Step 13: Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This cheesecake can also be frozen for longer storage; just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
Step 14: Meal Prep Tips
Consider making this cheesecake a few days in advance for parties or gatherings. The flavors improve as it sits, making it a great make-ahead dessert option.
Step 15: Variations
Feel free to experiment with different flavors by adding a swirl of fruit puree or incorporating chocolate chips into the filling. Just keep in mind the SmartPoints will vary with additional ingredients.
Step 16: Health Benefits
This cheesecake uses Greek yogurt and reduced-fat cream cheese, significantly lowering the fat content while increasing protein. The use of a sugar substitute helps reduce overall calories, making this dessert a more balanced treat.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
This recipe yields approximately 8 servings. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 120
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 13g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 5g
SmartPoints Calculation
- Total SmartPoints per serving:
- Graham cracker crumbs: 4
- Unsweetened applesauce: 0
- Light butter: 3
- Reduced-fat cream cheese: 10
- Nonfat Greek yogurt: 2
- Sugar substitute: 0
- Vanilla extract: 0
- Lemon juice: 0
- Lemon zest: 0
- Whipped topping (if used): 1
- Total SmartPoints: 20 SmartPoints for the whole dish, approximately 2.5 SmartPoints per serving without whipped topping.
Additional Tips and Information
Ingredient Substitutions
- Crust: For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or almond flour.
- Cheese: For a dairy-free version, try using cashew cream or a plant-based cream cheese alternative.
- Toppings: Consider using sugar-free fruit preserves for a sweet glaze or additional fruit toppings.
Cooking Tips
- Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Use a rubber spatula to scrape down the sides of the bowl for a smooth consistency.
Health Benefits
This low-point cheesecake is an excellent way to satisfy a sweet tooth while keeping your nutrition goals in check. The inclusion of Greek yogurt adds probiotics, which can be beneficial for gut health.
Final Thoughts
The Low-Point Woolworth Ice Box Cheesecake is a delightful dessert that allows you to indulge without compromising your wellness journey. By following this comprehensive guide, you can create a classic dessert that not only tastes delicious but is also mindful of your health goals. Enjoy every creamy, dreamy bite while knowing you’ve made a thoughtful choice. Happy baking!