Harriets Cheesecake
“Born in Morristown, New Jersey, Ms. Harriet's cheesecake journey began when her sister, studying in New York, sent her a recipe for French Vanilla cheesecake. Despite lacking baking skills and equipment, she recreated it by hand. In 1983, she founded Harriet’s Cheesecakes Unlimited in Inglewood, California. Facing challenges as a black businesswoman, she crafted the now-famous Sweet Potato Cheesecake to appeal to her community. Using fresh ingredients and reducing sugar for her diabetic son, she perfected her recipes, offering 65 flavors today. Still made by hand daily, the bakehouse is a family affair, with Ms. Harriet's children involved. French Vanilla remains a signature, drawing customers from near and far.”