ELEGANT CHEESE SQUARES

1 cup graham cracker crumbs
3 tablespoons plus 1/2 cup sugar, divided use
1/4 cup softened butter or margarine
1 (8 oz) c package ream cheese
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup milk
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 1/2 cups thawed Cool Whip
lemon twist and mint leaf (optional garnish)

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.

Combine crumbs and 3 tablespoons sugar. Add butter; mix well. Press firmly with back of spoon over bottom and sides of 8-inch square pan.

Bake at 375 degrees F for 8 minutes. Cool.

Beat cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. Add the remaining 1/2 cup sugar gradually, beating constantly. Add salt. Blend in milk, lemon juice, and vanilla. Then blend in Cool Whip. Spoon into crumb-lined pan. Chill until set - at least 3 hours.

Cut into squares. Garnish with lemon twist and mint leaf, if desired.

Makes about 8 servings
Source: Cool Whip Recipe Booklet, 1971