Baking Yesteryear

Baking Yesteryear by B. Dylan Hollis invites readers into a delightful exploration of 20th-century baking, offering a nostalgic yet adventurous culinary experience. This cookbook is structured as a decade-by-decade journey, presenting a collection of distinctive and occasionally peculiar recipes that reflect the social and cultural shifts of each era.

The Plot

From the surprising Chocolate Potato Cake of the 1910s to the quirky Avocado Pie of the 1960s, each recipe is a window into the past, showcasing the evolution of flavours and baking techniques. Hollis curates a mix of successful and failed attempts, drawn from vintage cookbooks, which adds a layer of authenticity and relatability to the narrative.

Themed Highlights

Each decade features:

• Unique recipes: Discover forgotten treats that once graced family tables.
• Nostalgic anecdotes: Enjoy stories behind each dish, enriching the baking experience.
• Variety of flavours: Explore a wide range of ingredients that reflect the times.

Literary Merit

Hollis's writing style is engaging and conversational, making the book accessible to both seasoned bakers and novices. The blend of history and culinary adventure ensures that readers will not only learn to bake but will also appreciate the stories that each recipe carries.

“Baking Yesteryear is more than just a cookbook; it’s a nostalgic trip through the flavours of the past.”

Fans of culinary history or those who enjoyed Hollis's previous works will find this book a charming addition to their collection, celebrating the art of baking with a twist of nostalgia.