Blanc-Mange (1877)

Blanc-Mange (1877)

From Buckeye Cookery and Practical Housekeeping (1877)Recipe contributed by Mrs. E. M. R. A delicately molded dessert popular in 19th-century kitchens, this blanc-mange combines sweetened milk, eggs, and corn starch into a smooth, creamy base. Often served in elegant molds and accompanied by fruit jelly and sweetened cream, it was a favorite at Victorian gatherings….

Raspberry Blanc-Mange (1877)

Raspberry Blanc-Mange (1877)

From Buckeye Cookery and Practical Housekeeping (1877)Recipe contributed by Mrs. J. P. Rea, Minneapolis, Minnesota A delicate fruit custard made without dairy, this raspberry blanc-mange was a refreshing dessert during warm seasons. Its clear, jewel-toned base came from stewed raspberries and thickened juice, molded and served cold with cream and sugar. Light, tangy, and naturally…

Chocolate Custard (1877)

Chocolate Custard (1877)

From Buckeye Cookery and Practical Housekeeping (1877)Recipe contributed by Miss Burnie Johnson This chocolate custard was a rich and luxurious treat for 19th-century households — smooth, thickened with egg yolks and cornstarch, and made with real chocolate. Often served cold alongside white cake, it was both a comfort and a celebration. Recipes like this reveal…

Prune Whip (1877)

Prune Whip (1877)

From Buckeye Cookery and Practical Housekeeping (1877)Recipe contributed by Mrs. Belle R. Liggett, Detroit, Michigan This light and airy dessert transforms simple stewed prunes into an elegant whipped dish, showcasing the creativity of 19th-century homemakers. The contrast between the sweet prune base and fluffy baked meringue made it a popular choice for both economical households…

Orange Soufflé (1877)

Orange Soufflé (1877)

From Buckeye Cookery and Practical Housekeeping (1877)Recipe contributed by Mrs. Mary A. Livermore, Melrose, Massachusetts A refreshing 19th-century dessert, this Orange Soufflé blends the bright citrus flavors of fresh oranges with a delicately sweet custard and airy meringue topping. Elegant yet simple, it reflects the era’s love for refined fruit-based puddings served in glassware. This…

Coffee with Whipped Cream (1877)

Coffee with Whipped Cream (1877)

From Buckeye Cookery and Practical Housekeeping (1877)Recipe compiled anonymously, 19th century Midwest homemaker A luxurious take on morning coffee or a special occasion beverage, this 19th-century recipe blends strong hot coffee with boiling milk and lightly sweetened whipped cream for a soft, velvety finish. Often referred to as “meringued coffee” during the time, it was…

Lemonade (1877)

Lemonade (1877)

From Buckeye Cookery and Practical Housekeeping (1877)Recipe compiled anonymously, 19th century Midwest homemaker A refreshing and timeless summer drink, this traditional 19th-century lemonade recipe uses whole sliced lemons, sugar, and water to create a naturally tart and slightly sweet beverage. It was commonly prepared in earthenware pitchers and served over ice — and occasionally with…

Fried Bananas (1877)

Fried Bananas (1877)

From Buckeye Cookery and Practical Housekeeping (1877)Recipe compiled anonymously, 19th century Midwest homemaker A simple yet indulgent late-19th century dessert, this recipe transforms ripe bananas into golden, caramelized bites by pan-frying them in butter and finishing with a dusting of sugar. Served warm, it’s a comforting treat that showcases the growing popularity of bananas in…

Strawberry Punch (1901)

Strawberry Punch (1901)

From The Settlement Cook Book (1901)Recipe compiled by Mrs. Simon Kander A delightful early 20th-century punch that blends fresh strawberries with citrus, champagne, and lightly beaten egg whites for a frothy, elegant finish. Served over ice in large punch bowls, this drink was a festive centerpiece at social gatherings and summer receptions. Ingredients Instructions NotesThis…