Laree laments: “A few weeks ago, I wanted to post a recipe on my blog, a recipe from a cook book. If I cite my source, is that ok? Or will I be breaking some copyright law or something? The cook book in question is currently out of print (and the publisher has already stated that there are no plans for a reprint).”
I didn’t know the answer to this one off the top of my head, so I did a little research. I found an excellent post on citing recipes written by David Lebowitz (renown pastry chef) on Food Alliance.com.
In your situation, the best way to avoid copyright infringement is to re-write the directions section of the recipe in your own words. Then, when you cite the cookbook, add the words “adapted from.”
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Example:
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Mom’s Best Chocolate Chip Cookies (adapted from The Cookie Cookbook)
Now, I am no legal expert but, since the cookbook you used is out of print, you likely won’t face any repercussions either way. But it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
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Sweet! Thanks so much for the help!