Classic Cheesecake Recipe from Bryan Hill School’s Home Ec Class
From Bryan Hill School Home Ec Class, 1956
This cherished cheesecake recipe, handwritten on a weathered recipe card, is a true treasure from Aunt Peggy’s home economics class. She and her mom, Aunt Alma, lovingly prepared this dessert for Christmas celebrations for many years. It’s more than just a recipe—it’s a piece of family history, tied to laughter and memories shared around the holiday table.
Recipe Card
Cheesecake Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 package lemon gelatin
- 1 cup boiling water
- 8 oz. package cream cheese
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 1 tall can chilled, whipped Milnot (evaporated milk substitute)
- 1 lb. graham crackers
- ½ cup melted fat or butter
Instructions
- Dissolve Gelatin: Dissolve the lemon gelatin in boiling water. Allow it to cool completely.
- Prepare Filling: In a mixing bowl, cream together the cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Gradually add the cooled gelatin mixture and mix well.
- Whip Milnot: Whip the chilled Milnot and gently fold it into the gelatin mixture until well combined.
- Make the Crust: Crush the graham crackers into fine crumbs and mix with the melted butter or fat. Reserve about 1/3 of the crumbs for topping. Firmly press 2/3 of the mixture into the bottom and sides of a 9x13x2-inch pan.
- Assemble: Pour the filling into the crust-lined pan and sprinkle the reserved graham cracker crumbs evenly on top.
- Chill: Refrigerate for several hours or until fully set.
- Cut and Serve: Slice into squares and serve chilled.
Nostalgic Notes
Every bite of this cheesecake transports me back to the cozy kitchens of yesteryear. Aunt Peggy and Aunt Alma had a knack for turning simple ingredients into something magical—this dessert being no exception. The use of Milnot and gelatin gives it a uniquely airy texture, while the graham cracker crust adds a satisfying crunch.
Image Suggestion
Header Image: A 9×13-inch cheesecake with a graham cracker crumb topping, served on a vintage holiday tablecloth.
Alt Text: “A classic cheesecake with a graham cracker crust and crumb topping, set on a holiday table.”
Enjoy Aunt Peggy’s cheesecake recipe—a sweet tradition that’s sure to add a little vintage flair to your family’s table!
