10 Best Cookbooks 2025 in the United States

Betty Crocker's Cooky Book is a classic choice for those interested in baking a wide range of cookies, from simple chocolate chip to more unique varieties. The recipes generally suit beginner to intermediate skill levels, making it accessible for home bakers who want straightforward, reliable instructions. The book focuses mainly on traditional American cookie recipes, which means it may not cover specific dietary preferences like gluten-free or vegan options extensively.

One strong point is the variety of cookie types offered, giving you plenty of ideas to try different flavors and textures. Ingredients called for are common and easy to find at most grocery stores, avoiding complicated or specialty items that could be hard to source. Visually, the book features clear, appealing photos that help you understand what the finished cookies should look like, which is great for less experienced bakers. Betty Crocker’s reputation as an experienced and trusted name in home cooking adds confidence to the recipes, assuring that they have been tested for good results.

The cookbook’s print is somewhat dated, and the selection might feel traditional, so if you're looking for modern or international cookie recipes, you might want to supplement this book with others. Its size and weight make it a sturdy, easy-to-handle kitchen companion without being bulky. This cookbook suits anyone keen on classic cookie baking with simple, accessible recipes and clear guidance.

The 'Complete Cooking for Two Cookbook, 10th Anniversary Gift Edition' offers a comprehensive collection with over 700 recipes tailored for two people. The cuisine type is diverse, ranging from simple everyday meals to more elaborate dishes, making it suitable for varied tastes. The skill level is approachable, catering to both beginners and more experienced cooks. This makes it versatile for couples who may have different cooking abilities or want to improve their skills together.

Dietary preferences are addressed to some extent, with options for vegetarians and those looking for healthier choices, though it might not cover all specialized diets extensively. Recipe variety is a strong point, ensuring readers won't run out of new dishes to try. Ingredient accessibility is considered, with most recipes using common ingredients that can be found in local supermarkets, although some might require a bit of searching for specific items.

Visual appeal is satisfactory, with clear and engaging food photography that can inspire users to try the recipes. The author's expertise shines through, as America's Test Kitchen is well-regarded for its meticulous recipe testing and reliability. However, the weight and dimensions of the book might make it cumbersome for some users to handle, and the hardcover format may not be as convenient for quick kitchen reference. This cookbook is a solid choice for couples who enjoy cooking and want a reliable resource with a wide range of recipes.

Baking for Two: 200+ Small-Batch Recipes, from Lazy Bakes to Layer Cakes is a versatile cookbook that caters to those who enjoy baking in smaller quantities, perfect for couples or small households. The cuisine type focuses primarily on baked goods, ranging from simple, everyday bakes to more elaborate layer cakes, ensuring a broad appeal to a variety of tastes and occasions.

The recipes are designed to be approachable for bakers of all skill levels, with clear instructions that beginners can follow, while also providing enough complexity to keep more experienced bakers engaged. The variety of recipes is a strong point, covering over 200 different bakes which helps to keep one's baking routine interesting and diverse.

Ingredient accessibility is thoughtfully considered, with most recipes using common, easy-to-find ingredients, which makes it convenient for everyday baking without the need to hunt for specialty items. The visual appeal of the book is likely high, given its association with America's Test Kitchen, known for their high-quality photography and clear, step-by-step images that guide the reader through the recipe. The author's expertise is implicitly supported by America's Test Kitchen's reputation for reliable, tested recipes, providing credibility and confidence in the results.