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10 Best Pastry Cookbooks 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

100 Cookies: The Baking Book for Every Kitchen, with Classic Cookies, Novel Treats, Brownies, Bars, and More (100 Baking Recipes for Every Kitchen)

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,355
Skill Level
Recipe Variety
Step-by-Step Instructions

Most important from
5211 reviews

Skill Level
The recipes are clearly labeled, easy to read, and easy to follow, making it perfect for any recipe book.
Recipe Variety
There are so many different recipes, and each one tried so far has been absolutely delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Included pictures give you an idea of what to expect, adding a visual guide to the baking process.
User Reviews
The brown butter cookies are a family favorite, quick and easy to make, and delicious.

100 Cookies: The Baking Book for Every Kitchen is a versatile pastry cookbook that caters to bakers of various skill levels. It offers a broad range of recipes, from classic cookies to novel treats, brownies, and bars, making it a valuable resource for anyone looking to expand their baking repertoire. The book's step-by-step instructions are clear and concise, ensuring that even beginners can follow along with ease.

Some recipes may require specialized ingredients or equipment, which could be a drawback for those with limited kitchen resources. The author, who is well-regarded in the baking community, brings a wealth of expertise to the table, lending credibility to the recipes. The book's dimensions and weight are manageable, and the hardcover format adds to its durability. Despite being slightly on the heavier side, at 2.2 pounds, this shouldn't be a major issue for most users.

Published by Chronicle Books in August 2020, this illustrated edition has quickly become a favorite among baking enthusiasts.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,355
Skill Level
Recipe Variety
Step-by-Step Instructions

Most important from
5211 reviews

Skill Level
The recipes are clearly labeled, easy to read, and easy to follow, making it perfect for any recipe book.
Recipe Variety
There are so many different recipes, and each one tried so far has been absolutely delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Included pictures give you an idea of what to expect, adding a visual guide to the baking process.
User Reviews
The brown butter cookies are a family favorite, quick and easy to make, and delicious.
#2

The King Arthur Baking Company's All-Purpose Baker's Companion (Revised and Updated)

Rating
9.8
Skill Level
Recipe Variety
Ingredients and Equipment

Most important from
2273 reviews

Skill Level
Jazzed up or classic recipes that cater to both beginners and advanced bakers.
Recipe Variety
A hefty book with 550 pages and 450 recipes, covering everything you need to know about baking.
Ingredients and Equipment
Huge sections on techniques and ingredients make this a go-to guide for all baking needs.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Detailed instructions and exact measurements are perfect for those who like to start with precise base recipes.
Author Expertise
The book's detailed, no-nonsense approach to recipes is a refreshing change from phone scrolling.
User Reviews
Recipes are easy to read with nutritional content included, making it a valuable daily reference.

The King Arthur Baking Company's All-Purpose Baker's Companion (Revised and Updated) is a comprehensive pastry cookbook that caters to a wide range of skill levels. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced baker, the book offers a variety of recipes that cover basic to advanced baking techniques. This makes it a versatile addition to any kitchen. The generous 592 pages ensure a broad assortment of recipes, so there's something for everyone's taste preferences.

Importantly, the book emphasizes accessible ingredients and common kitchen equipment, which simplifies the process for those who may not have specialized tools. The step-by-step instructions are detailed and clear, helping to guide you through even the most complicated recipes with ease. This can be especially beneficial for less experienced bakers who appreciate thorough guidance. The credibility of the authors, backed by the King Arthur Baking Company's long-standing reputation, adds a layer of trust to the content.

The book's size and weight (3.7 pounds) may make it cumbersome to handle, and some users might find the sheer volume of information overwhelming. Despite these minor drawbacks, the book is a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve their baking skills with reliable recipes and expert advice.

Rating
9.8
Skill Level
Recipe Variety
Ingredients and Equipment

Most important from
2273 reviews

Skill Level
Jazzed up or classic recipes that cater to both beginners and advanced bakers.
Recipe Variety
A hefty book with 550 pages and 450 recipes, covering everything you need to know about baking.
Ingredients and Equipment
Huge sections on techniques and ingredients make this a go-to guide for all baking needs.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Detailed instructions and exact measurements are perfect for those who like to start with precise base recipes.
Author Expertise
The book's detailed, no-nonsense approach to recipes is a refreshing change from phone scrolling.
User Reviews
Recipes are easy to read with nutritional content included, making it a valuable daily reference.
#3

French Patisserie: Master Recipes and Techniques from the Ferrandi School of Culinary Arts

Rating
9.6
Skill Level
Ingredients and Equipment
Step-by-Step Instructions

Most important from
1441 reviews

Skill Level
A comprehensive guide with great pictures and instructions that cater to all skill levels.
Ingredients and Equipment
The book includes quality ingredient recommendations and tips on preparing each component to perfection.
Step-by-Step Instructions
An instructional pastry book with well-written step-by-step instructions for both simple and complex recipes, paired with beautiful pictures on high-quality paper.

The 'French Patisserie: Master Recipes and Techniques from the Ferrandi School of Culinary Arts' is a comprehensive pastry cookbook. It is structured to cater to various skill levels, from beginners to advanced bakers, making it versatile for a wide audience. The book offers a diverse range of recipes, ensuring there’s something for everyone, whether you prefer classic pastries or are looking to master more intricate desserts. Each recipe is accompanied by detailed step-by-step instructions and photographs, which can be incredibly helpful for visual learners. However, the extensive details may feel overwhelming to a complete novice.

Some recipes require specific ingredients and equipment that might not be readily available in every kitchen, which could be a downside for home bakers. The book is authored by the Ferrandi School of Culinary Arts, a reputable institution known for its culinary excellence, bringing a high level of expertise and authenticity to the content. The book’s large and heavy format can be cumbersome to handle, serving best as a reference guide rather than a day-to-day cookbook due to its size and weight.

This cookbook is ideal for serious bakers and those looking to deepen their pastry skills with professional guidance, though it may be less suited for casual bakers or those with limited kitchen resources.

Rating
9.6
Skill Level
Ingredients and Equipment
Step-by-Step Instructions

Most important from
1441 reviews

Skill Level
A comprehensive guide with great pictures and instructions that cater to all skill levels.
Ingredients and Equipment
The book includes quality ingredient recommendations and tips on preparing each component to perfection.
Step-by-Step Instructions
An instructional pastry book with well-written step-by-step instructions for both simple and complex recipes, paired with beautiful pictures on high-quality paper.

Buying Guide for the Best Pastry Cookbooks

Choosing the right pastry cookbook can be a delightful yet challenging task, especially with the vast array of options available. The key to finding the perfect cookbook lies in understanding your own needs and preferences, as well as the specific features of the cookbooks. Here are some important aspects to consider when selecting a pastry cookbook that will best suit your baking journey.
Skill LevelThe skill level of a cookbook is crucial because it determines how accessible the recipes will be for you. Cookbooks are generally categorized into beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels. Beginner cookbooks offer simple, easy-to-follow recipes with basic techniques, perfect for those new to baking. Intermediate cookbooks introduce more complex recipes and techniques, suitable for those with some baking experience. Advanced cookbooks are for seasoned bakers looking to challenge themselves with intricate and sophisticated pastries. Choose a cookbook that matches your current skill level to ensure a rewarding baking experience.
Recipe VarietyThe variety of recipes in a cookbook is important as it dictates the range of pastries you can create. Some cookbooks focus on a specific type of pastry, such as cakes, cookies, or bread, while others offer a broader selection. If you have a particular interest, such as mastering croissants or perfecting pies, look for a cookbook that specializes in that area. For those who enjoy experimenting with different types of pastries, a cookbook with a wide variety of recipes will be more suitable. Consider your baking interests and choose a cookbook that aligns with them.
Ingredients and EquipmentThe ingredients and equipment required for the recipes in a cookbook can significantly impact your baking experience. Some cookbooks use common, easily accessible ingredients and basic kitchen tools, making them ideal for home bakers. Others may call for specialty ingredients and advanced equipment, which can be more challenging to source and use. Assess your pantry and kitchen tools before choosing a cookbook. If you prefer simplicity, opt for one that uses everyday ingredients and tools. If you're ready to invest in new equipment and ingredients, a more specialized cookbook might be the right choice.
Step-by-Step InstructionsClear, detailed instructions are essential for successful baking, especially for complex pastry recipes. Some cookbooks provide step-by-step instructions with accompanying photos or illustrations, which can be incredibly helpful for visual learners. Others may offer more concise directions, assuming a certain level of baking knowledge. If you are a beginner or prefer visual aids, look for cookbooks with comprehensive, illustrated instructions. For more experienced bakers, concise instructions might be sufficient. Consider your learning style and choose a cookbook that provides the level of detail you need.
Author ExpertiseThe expertise of the author can greatly influence the quality of the recipes and the reliability of the cookbook. Renowned pastry chefs and experienced bakers often bring a wealth of knowledge and tested techniques to their cookbooks. Research the author's background and credentials to ensure they have the expertise to guide you through your baking journey. If you admire a particular chef or have had success with their recipes before, their cookbook might be a great addition to your collection. Trustworthy authors can provide valuable insights and tips that enhance your baking skills.
User ReviewsUser reviews can provide valuable insights into the practicality and success rate of the recipes in a cookbook. Reading reviews from other bakers can help you gauge the cookbook's effectiveness, ease of use, and overall satisfaction. Look for cookbooks with positive feedback and high ratings, as these are likely to offer reliable and enjoyable recipes. Pay attention to any recurring issues mentioned in reviews, such as unclear instructions or difficult-to-find ingredients. User reviews can help you make an informed decision and choose a cookbook that has been well-received by the baking community.

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