10 Best Cookbooks 2025 in the United States

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.

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.

The New Cooking School Cookbook: Fundamentals is designed as a thorough guide for home cooks looking to build a solid foundation in cooking. Published by America's Test Kitchen, a trusted name known for tested and reliable recipes, this book covers a broad range of basic cooking techniques and recipes, making it ideal for beginners or those wanting to improve their skills. The emphasis is on fundamental skills rather than specific global cuisines, which makes it great for anyone wanting to master versatile cooking techniques.

The book’s large size and weight reflect its extensive content—680 pages—indicating a wide recipe variety and detailed instructions. It offers clear explanations and step-by-step guidance suitable for those with limited experience. Ingredient accessibility is generally good with America's Test Kitchen, as they tend to focus on common ingredients found in most grocery stores. While it does not explicitly highlight dietary preferences, its broad approach makes it adaptable for various needs, though specialized diets might require additional resources.

Visual appeal is strong, with quality images and illustrations that help readers follow steps easily, enhancing the learning experience. Thanks to the publisher’s expertise, the book provides trustworthy and tested recipes that prioritize success in the kitchen. The comprehensive nature and size might feel overwhelming to some, and those seeking quick, niche cuisine-focused recipes or strict dietary plans may prefer other specialized cookbooks. Nevertheless, it serves as a fundamental cooking resource for anyone wanting to confidently improve their cooking from the ground up.