While Epiphany is the 6th of January, it is celebrated now in the Church in the United States on the Sunday following January 6.  I tend to celebrate it both days unless the 6th falls on a Sunday.  Regardless, it is a great day to celebrate the manifestation of Christ.  He was revealed to the world beyond his locale through being found and adored by the journeying magi from the East.

Some guests asked to come to the hermitage on Epiphany Sunday.  They came bearing gifts of almonds, pistachios and a touch of chocolate.  I offered them a touch of Fortitude Fudge and a taste of St. Bernard Love of God Bourbon Balls, but the main offering was freshly baked Epiphany Cake.  This delight is about as quick to put together and bake as the wise men were to bow on bended knee to the newborn king.

Epiphany Cake

1 pkg. boxed quickbread or cake mix: follow directions except use buttermilk instead of water and oil, and add 1/4 c. of a special liqueur (I like Fiat Lux=Let there be light!*)

Add to the mix:  1 Tbsp. lecithin granules, 2 Tbsp. flaxseed, 1/4 c. ground pumpkin seeds, 1/4 c. ground walnuts, and 1/2 c. golden raisins (represent golden light for Epiphany).

Oil and flour huge muffin tins or cupcake tins for individual cakes.  Use coconut oil if you have it.  Bake according to directions on package.  Cool; frost or give dusting with powdered sugar… or sugar sprinkles such as gold ones!  [Wish I’d thought of gold then!]

Note:  You may change types of nuts and seeds depending upon what kind of mix used.

Just as the wise men presented gifts to the infant Jesus, try to serve your guests as if presenting gold, frankincense and myrrh.  I brought out some whimsical plates purchased a year ago for any festive occasion; but you will think of some celebratory touch if but on plain plates with a candle lit in each cake, or sprinkles on top, or fun napkins or a fun you.  Light a scented candle, or light three! It’s a party!

I brought out the Joyful Hermit Mystical Mist for us to sample (whiskey liqueur with sevenfold mysterious flavors), but we first enjoyed some spice tea I’d purchased at Big Lots on clearance for 50-cents.  After all, it is the joy and lightheartedness of serving guests and celebrating the revelation of love in small ways that counts for much in life.

* Fiat Lux and Simplicitas are hermitage-made liqueurs that even a joyful hermit cannot sell due to liquor sales laws, but you may use purchased liqueurs or make your own, too!