Famed American poet Emily Dickinson (1830-1886) enjoyed cooking and baking in the kitchen in addition to writing her poetry. In this article by Literary Hub, you can read some of Emily’s baking recipes and see images of her recipes in her handwriting.


Here is one recipe, Black Cake, that you may find interesting and a baking challenge for the end-of-year holidays.

Black Cake:
2 pounds Flour—
2 Sugar—
2 Butter—
19 Eggs—
5 pounds Raisins—
1 ½ Currants
1 ½ Citron
½ pint Brandy
½ — Molasses—
2 Nutmegs—
5 teaspoons
Cloves—Mace—Cinnamon
2 teaspoons Soda—

Beat Butter and Sugar together—
Add Eggs without beating—and beat the mixture again—
Bake 2½ or three hours in Cake pans, or 5 to 6 hours in Milk pan, if full—


Be aware that this cake, or fruit cake, weighs in at approximately 20 pounds (9 kg), so be prepared to serve many friends and family members!


Many people worldwide celebrate various religious holidays and festivals and prepare to ring in the New Year. A suggestion to help your community this season is to help those less fortunate than ourselves with food gifts. Many community food pantries and banks are running low on supplies, and food donations are much needed and appreciated.


The season can be harsh for homeless people, especially in cold winter climates. Consider preparing simple packages with socks, a scarf, a hat, a blanket, and something home-baked. The items can be easily tucked into large sealable bags and distributed at shelters. If you belong to a religious institution, ask if they would support a warming shelter and a soup kitchen during the winter months.


People living on their own can find the season depressing and sad. Think of your neighbors and nursing home residents. Consider bringing home-baked goods as a gift and spending time with them or inviting them to share a meal with you.


Simple acts of goodwill are easy to accomplish and mean much to others. Remember to get your children involved too. A simple practice may start a new annual tradition for your family and friends.