What do you think?
Rate this book
Old Time Hawkey's Recipes from the Cedar Swamp: A Cookbook
NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • Step into Old Time Hawkey’s magical world with 100 comforting recipes and stories inspired by the beauty of Northern Michigan
Well hello, buddy.
In videos that have captured the hearts of millions online, Old Time Hawkey, aka Fritz and his dogs Donnybrook and Kris Draper, is always there to offer a hot apple cider or an ice cream sundae on a tough day, to help you drift off to sleep with a story or a retro video game.
Fritz's first cookbook, Old Time Hawkey's Recipes from the Cedar Swamp, features over 100 cozy recipes divided into three categories—indoor, campfire, and companions—with comforting recipes like Pumpkin Pancakes, Dutch Oven Nachos, and Honey Cinnamon Cold Brew.
Everyone has a “cedar swamp.” It could be a childhood home, an old journal, or something as simple as a scent or an old song. This book brings you on an adventure through Fritz's—with simple recipes inspired by three generations of campfires, deer camps, and family gatherings spent in Northern Michigan.
Well hello, buddy.
In videos that have captured the hearts of millions online, Old Time Hawkey, aka Fritz and his dogs Donnybrook and Kris Draper, is always there to offer a hot apple cider or an ice cream sundae on a tough day, to help you drift off to sleep with a story or a retro video game.
Fritz's first cookbook, Old Time Hawkey's Recipes from the Cedar Swamp, features over 100 cozy recipes divided into three categories—indoor, campfire, and companions—with comforting recipes like Pumpkin Pancakes, Dutch Oven Nachos, and Honey Cinnamon Cold Brew.
Everyone has a “cedar swamp.” It could be a childhood home, an old journal, or something as simple as a scent or an old song. This book brings you on an adventure through Fritz's—with simple recipes inspired by three generations of campfires, deer camps, and family gatherings spent in Northern Michigan.
256 pages, Hardcover
Published May 21, 2024
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
May 21, 2024
My husband has been following Old Time Hawkeye on social media for awhile now and constantly shows me his videos. So naturally, he preordered this cookbook for me the second he found out about it.
I received it today, literally only moments ago, and I am already obsessed with it!
I love to cook and I LOVE collecting cookbooks but I can honestly say that this is by far my absolute favorite. I can't tell you how many times I have obtained a cookbook, just to be disappointed because I only liked a couple of recipes. Although, I have yet to try any from this particular book, I can already tell I will love all of them. This cookbook is not like others that are filled with things that most won't eat. I really feel like everybody could thoroughly enjoy this one.
Not only is this book filled with things my family will actually eat, but all of the recipes seem doable. Seriously, all of these recipes are simple enough that I don't feel intimidated to try them.
So, recently I found out that I am allergic to gluten and that has made cooking a bit of a challenge. Not that it's necessarily hard, but I have been cooking for years now and then it felts like all of a sudden, everything I made I could no longer have. It definitely made me lose my love for being in the kitchen, and made cooking a miserable experience.
With that said, I feel like most of the things in this book is either already gluten free, or can easily be substituted to meet my needs. Flipping through the pages, I seriously cannot wait to get back in the kitchen and find my love for food again. I am so pleasantly surprised at how versatile this cookbook is.
I also want to comment on the quality of the book itself. Almost all of the recipes had a photo to go along with it. I can't praise cookbooks with images enough, honestly. The pictures are all so vibrant and really make the food jump off the pages. I'm so impressed.
The pages themselves are really thick and sturdy. It feels like you are accidentally turning more than one page at a time. Obviously this is a big plus for a book that I will undoubtedly be referencing a lot and will use in the kitchen. I feel like it can definitely handle the wear and tear.
Seriously, I am not paid to praise this book, by any means. I just genuinely fell in love with it instantly.
I will updates when I try some of the recipes. I can't wait.
I received it today, literally only moments ago, and I am already obsessed with it!
I love to cook and I LOVE collecting cookbooks but I can honestly say that this is by far my absolute favorite. I can't tell you how many times I have obtained a cookbook, just to be disappointed because I only liked a couple of recipes. Although, I have yet to try any from this particular book, I can already tell I will love all of them. This cookbook is not like others that are filled with things that most won't eat. I really feel like everybody could thoroughly enjoy this one.
Not only is this book filled with things my family will actually eat, but all of the recipes seem doable. Seriously, all of these recipes are simple enough that I don't feel intimidated to try them.
So, recently I found out that I am allergic to gluten and that has made cooking a bit of a challenge. Not that it's necessarily hard, but I have been cooking for years now and then it felts like all of a sudden, everything I made I could no longer have. It definitely made me lose my love for being in the kitchen, and made cooking a miserable experience.
With that said, I feel like most of the things in this book is either already gluten free, or can easily be substituted to meet my needs. Flipping through the pages, I seriously cannot wait to get back in the kitchen and find my love for food again. I am so pleasantly surprised at how versatile this cookbook is.
I also want to comment on the quality of the book itself. Almost all of the recipes had a photo to go along with it. I can't praise cookbooks with images enough, honestly. The pictures are all so vibrant and really make the food jump off the pages. I'm so impressed.
The pages themselves are really thick and sturdy. It feels like you are accidentally turning more than one page at a time. Obviously this is a big plus for a book that I will undoubtedly be referencing a lot and will use in the kitchen. I feel like it can definitely handle the wear and tear.
Seriously, I am not paid to praise this book, by any means. I just genuinely fell in love with it instantly.
I will updates when I try some of the recipes. I can't wait.
October 21, 2024
A really cute cookbook for fans of Old Time Hawkey and woodsy nostalgia. There are some great camping recipe ideas and I love that every recipe has a picture. I will definitely be trying Grandma's Reese's Bars!
December 29, 2024
Can’t wait to try these recipes- every single one looks and sounds delicious! I love the simplicity of the recipes and the ties to family that they have- I am going to cook my way through this cookbook 😍😋
November 4, 2026
★★★★★
Old Time Hawkey's Recipes from the Cedar Swamp is a charming cookbook that celebrates traditional cooking, rustic flavors, and the simple pleasures of homemade food. What makes this book especially appealing is its nostalgic atmosphere and connection to old-fashioned culinary traditions. It brings a refreshing appreciation for the creativity and resourcefulness found in traditional home kitchens.
I love the idea of exploring recipes inspired by country living and the natural surroundings of the Cedar Swamp. The book has a distinctive personality that makes it feel different from ordinary modern cookbooks. Its focus on familiar ingredients, comforting dishes, and traditional cooking inspiration makes it especially interesting for readers who appreciate a simpler approach to food.
This cookbook is also a lovely choice for anyone who enjoys discovering regional food traditions and adding something unique to their cookbook collection. It encourages an appreciation for homemade meals and the enjoyment of sharing food with family and friends.
Overall, this is a delightful cookbook for fans of rustic cooking, traditional recipes, and nostalgic
Old Time Hawkey's Recipes from the Cedar Swamp is a charming cookbook that celebrates traditional cooking, rustic flavors, and the simple pleasures of homemade food. What makes this book especially appealing is its nostalgic atmosphere and connection to old-fashioned culinary traditions. It brings a refreshing appreciation for the creativity and resourcefulness found in traditional home kitchens.
I love the idea of exploring recipes inspired by country living and the natural surroundings of the Cedar Swamp. The book has a distinctive personality that makes it feel different from ordinary modern cookbooks. Its focus on familiar ingredients, comforting dishes, and traditional cooking inspiration makes it especially interesting for readers who appreciate a simpler approach to food.
This cookbook is also a lovely choice for anyone who enjoys discovering regional food traditions and adding something unique to their cookbook collection. It encourages an appreciation for homemade meals and the enjoyment of sharing food with family and friends.
Overall, this is a delightful cookbook for fans of rustic cooking, traditional recipes, and nostalgic
December 15, 2024
Old Time Hawkey is our comfort watch in this house. When my daughter was having surgery I pulled up his tiktok to calm her when she was anxious. Whenever we are sick we scroll through reels. Can't sleep, eh? We pull up our buddy and scroll a bit, listening to his calming voice.
We've tried a few of the recipes from his channel before, but since reading this book we've tried a few more. They were all so good, the kids want to add them to the rotation. I'm most excited for camping trips next summer to try some of the campfire recipes.
I highly recommend this if you love simple comfort food.
We've tried a few of the recipes from his channel before, but since reading this book we've tried a few more. They were all so good, the kids want to add them to the rotation. I'm most excited for camping trips next summer to try some of the campfire recipes.
I highly recommend this if you love simple comfort food.
May 21, 2024
Everything looks and sounds delicious!
I am excited to cook these recipes.
I'm going to try the banana French toast in the morning.
Cheesy potatoes sound amazing. Everything looks and sounds delicious. It is almost 3 a. m. where I live in the USA. I have just finished reading this awesome cookbook, it has some nice history, with some short stories as well. I'm sitting here feeling very hungry. I can't wait to wake up and try a few of these dishes. Thank you! Diana in Pennsylvania
I am excited to cook these recipes.
I'm going to try the banana French toast in the morning.
Cheesy potatoes sound amazing. Everything looks and sounds delicious. It is almost 3 a. m. where I live in the USA. I have just finished reading this awesome cookbook, it has some nice history, with some short stories as well. I'm sitting here feeling very hungry. I can't wait to wake up and try a few of these dishes. Thank you! Diana in Pennsylvania
August 7, 2024
Let me start off by saying this: I was influenced.
Old Time Hawkey is one of the few social media personalities I follow. I've long enjoyed his videos romanticing time spent outdoors with your dogs, enjoying comfort food cooked over a fire, and ice cold pops. I saw his cookbook on a shelf and picked it up soley because I recognized the name.
I have a strict rule with cookbooks: I borrow them from the library first. If I like or anticipate that I'll like at least 45% of the recipes in them, I will consider buying them. I go through a lot of cookbooks and have only purchased maybe 4 using this criteria. Usually, I find 1-2 recipes I like and the rest of the books are just pretty pictures, expensive ingredients, or full of things i would dislike eating.
I bought the cookbook.
It took three tries of talking myself out of it but it's on my shelf now.
I made a few of the comfort food recipes and enjoyed them. The pudgie pie ones are nice for the backyard firepit we've got. Some of the dips have bee winners for picky eaters.
You can likely find all of these recipes online or through his videos, so if you're thrifty, this book won't be an ideal purchase. But, if you like having a hardcopy of recipes free of advertisements and long stories on recipe blogs, it's a nice treat.
Old Time Hawkey is one of the few social media personalities I follow. I've long enjoyed his videos romanticing time spent outdoors with your dogs, enjoying comfort food cooked over a fire, and ice cold pops. I saw his cookbook on a shelf and picked it up soley because I recognized the name.
I have a strict rule with cookbooks: I borrow them from the library first. If I like or anticipate that I'll like at least 45% of the recipes in them, I will consider buying them. I go through a lot of cookbooks and have only purchased maybe 4 using this criteria. Usually, I find 1-2 recipes I like and the rest of the books are just pretty pictures, expensive ingredients, or full of things i would dislike eating.
I bought the cookbook.
It took three tries of talking myself out of it but it's on my shelf now.
I made a few of the comfort food recipes and enjoyed them. The pudgie pie ones are nice for the backyard firepit we've got. Some of the dips have bee winners for picky eaters.
You can likely find all of these recipes online or through his videos, so if you're thrifty, this book won't be an ideal purchase. But, if you like having a hardcopy of recipes free of advertisements and long stories on recipe blogs, it's a nice treat.
July 31, 2024
Well hello buddy! I am OBSESSED with old time Hawkey, and received this cookbook as a gift from my brother. It did not disappoint. Loved the nostalgic stories, beautiful pictures, and kind words sprinkled throughout. I also really liked how Fritz organized the sections of the book - cooking outside vs inside. All the recipes seem easy to make, and many include store bought ingredients. Though be warned it is definitely not a health-conscious cookbook — this is alllll about comfort food.
June 21, 2024
A seriously awesome cookbook that is so worth the purchase. Every page of this book is mouthwatering and super simple to make. I really appreciate it when a cookbook isn't filled with 100 pretentious and hard to source ingredients. Do yourself a favor and buy this cookbook. It deserves a permanent place on your countertop.
January 5, 2025
Love the pictures, the nostalgia. Made the white chicken chili and butterscotch steamer. The steamer was AMAZING! Looking forward to making more recipes. I’ve made a few from his Instagram and everything feels easy and cozy. Book is heavy on campfire recipes so I’ll have to wait to try some. Chicken chili was great but I’ll be doubling the beans next time.
February 5, 2025
I’ve been a big fan of Fritz for a while and have been following him on Instagram for years. When I saw that he was coming out with a cookbook, I raced to get one. I am so happy I did because every recipe has been absolutely phenomenal. My husband is a really picky eater and has loved every recipe I’ve made. Would highly recommend
April 16, 2025
Full of delicious looking recipes! As a Michigander who loves to camp and be in nature, this book provides a lot of amazing recipes to use for those campfire days/nights. You don’t need a campfire to make any of these of course, there’s home-cooking in here as well, but I personally appreciated the much needed camping inspiration.
November 9, 2025
This cookbook is so so so dang cute. The recipes are really good, and the layout is super clean and easy-to-follow.
I have ADHD and a lot of cookbooks have paragraph-y or cluttered layouts that make my brain itch. But this book feels like a comforting magic tome with some very cozy recipes. Currently, my favorite cookbook.
I have ADHD and a lot of cookbooks have paragraph-y or cluttered layouts that make my brain itch. But this book feels like a comforting magic tome with some very cozy recipes. Currently, my favorite cookbook.
July 27, 2026
Easy Feel Good Recipes
Love the recipes and total vibe in the book. Definitely brings back nostalgic times. Simple ingredients and decadent food. Love seeing the pictures of the food along with simple instructions. I definitely going to be trying a good number (or all) of these recipes out.
Love the recipes and total vibe in the book. Definitely brings back nostalgic times. Simple ingredients and decadent food. Love seeing the pictures of the food along with simple instructions. I definitely going to be trying a good number (or all) of these recipes out.
October 13, 2026
I love Old Time Hawkey’s instagram. The most calming nostalgic cooking and vibes. I got this as a present for my brother but ended up sticking around and reading it.
This is classic cooking at its best. Memories + coziness. The recipes on this are all great ones I grew up eating in the 90s. All the slow cooker recipes and desserts.
This is classic cooking at its best. Memories + coziness. The recipes on this are all great ones I grew up eating in the 90s. All the slow cooker recipes and desserts.
Read
September 17, 2024This is very cute if you like his YouTube series. It's just bordering on useless for a vegetarian though but I'll try a few of the drinks! I'll not give it a rating since I'm not exactly his target audience.
December 1, 2024
So I have followed him on social media for a while but I had no idea he wrote a cook book! I love the different options for cooking inside or outside and the recipes are very approachable and nostalgic. Also delicious. Made the cinnamon rolls for Thanksgiving breakfast!
July 19, 2025
Found out about OTH back on TikTok during Covid… he’s been a refreshing feature on my Instagram feed ever since.
This is a cookbook. If you are a fan of the nostalgic, the outdoors, and dogs then you’ll at the very least enjoy OTH. If you enjoy OTH and food then you’ll likely enjoy this book.
This is a cookbook. If you are a fan of the nostalgic, the outdoors, and dogs then you’ll at the very least enjoy OTH. If you enjoy OTH and food then you’ll likely enjoy this book.
May 16, 2024
I’ve made two recipes, one of them twice already. So far, this cookbook is a big hit.
May 24, 2024
Awesome cook book! Taking a lot of these recipes with us when we go camping this summer! Thanks, Buddy!
May 30, 2024
Bought this cookbook to support one of my favourite TikTok creators. So many recipes and the pictures are beauty! We've tried 2 recipes so far, and they're great!
June 2, 2024
Best cookbook ever. I'd read anything this man writes. 😍 Holy wah. Fritz, keep on keeping on my dude, you rock. Much love to Kris Draper and Donnybrook. Stay as always, good boys. 😘
June 15, 2024
I appreciated the chapter on pudgy pies, or if you’re from Northwestern Pennsylvania, mountain pies.
July 24, 2024
super cute, i bet if i'd ever "seen" him i would like it better, definitely a 3.5
July 29, 2024
Want to make the cinnamon roll pancakes, the fiesta corn dip, and the campfire lasagna.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 15, 2024
Great recipes and stories in this book! The pictures of the recipes look yummy!
December 11, 2024
I pre-ordered this and read it when it came out & it's a great cookbook! I've made several of the recipes & my family has enjoyed what I made so far.
January 7, 2025
There are some pretty good recipes in here.
January 14, 2025
Simple. Tasty. Practical. Not just some influencer money grab. Actually a really good cookbook. Well worth the purchase.
March 2, 2025
3.5 stars.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews