Picture this: a crisp Northern Michigan evening, the scent of pine in the air, Fritz by the campfire with dogs Donnybrook and Kris Draper, sharing hot apple cider or a bedtime story. That's the vibe of Old Time Hawkey's Recipes from the Cedar Swamp, an Instant New York Times Bestseller that's more than just a cookbook—it's a ticket back to simpler times.
We all have one: that childhood cabin, an old journal tucked away, or a song that pulls you right back. Fritz's cedar swamp is the heart of deer camps, family feasts, and quiet moments in the woods. This hardcover gem dives into it with over 100 recipes born from those experiences, split into indoor comforts, campfire classics, and companion bites for your furry friends.
Start your day with fluffy Pumpkin Pancakes, drizzled in maple syrup that melts just so. Craving something hearty? Whip up Dutch Oven Nachos layered with cheese and toppings that bubble over the coals. For a chill afternoon, try the Honey Cinnamon Cold Brew, smooth and spiced to perfection. These aren't fussy dishes—they use everyday ingredients but pack the flavor of generations spent outdoors.
It's the stories woven in that make it special. Each recipe comes with Fritz's tales—funny mishaps at camp, lessons from the woods, moments that stick. You'll laugh, you'll get nostalgic, and yeah, you'll cook. Imagine flipping these pages on a weekend getaway, recreating venison chili after a hike, or surprising the family with cedar swamp sundaes on a Tuesday night.
Whether you're planning your next camping trip, stocking the pantry for cozy nights, or hunting for Northern Michigan recipes that tell a story, this book delivers. At around 100 pages of pure warmth (plus gorgeous photos), it's the kind of read that lingers, much like the smell of a fresh-baked pie. Grab it, cook from it, and let it transport you.
