The Ultimate 2017 Cookbook Gift Guide: Discover My Top Picks & Must-Have Culinary Reads
Welcome to my hand-picked selection of the most cherished and sought-after cookbooks from the past year. Whether you’re searching for the perfect gift for a passionate home chef, a budding baker, or even looking to treat yourself, this guide offers culinary inspiration for every taste and skill level. For even more gifting ideas, including unique pairings, you can revisit last year’s comprehensive cookbook guide here.
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Welcome to a very exciting time of year: gift guide week! I made a conscious effort this year to organize my thoughts and selections earlier, ensuring that these carefully curated gift guides reach you well in advance. My primary goal in sharing these sooner is to empower you to take full advantage of the incredible deals and discounts that typically unfold over the coming days and weeks. This foresight can make your holiday shopping both more enjoyable and more budget-friendly. Shopping Tip: Keep a close watch on Amazon, as they often unveil massive discounts on books, especially during popular sales events like Cyber Monday.
Among all the gift guides I compile annually, my cookbook selection remains a perennial favorite. There’s something truly special about giving (or receiving!) a beautiful cookbook, brimming with possibilities. While some of these culinary gems might have been released a little over a year ago, they are unequivocally the books I’ve consistently gravitated towards, finding myself turning their pages again and again in my own kitchen. They represent the dishes I’ve loved cooking, the techniques I’ve mastered, and the flavors that have truly resonated. Beyond my personal favorites, I’ve also included a thoughtful handful of books that have recently captured my attention and are currently topping my ‘coveted’ list. These are the ones I dream of adding to my collection, promising new adventures in flavor and skill.
Do you have a stand-out cookbook that has truly won your heart this year? Please don’t hesitate to share your recommendations and culinary discoveries with us in the comments section below! Your insights are always incredibly valuable.
The Best Cookbooks of 2017: Handpicked for Every Culinary Enthusiast
Love Real Food by Kathryne Taylor
Authored by my wonderfully talented fellow blogger friend, Kathryne from Cookie and Kate, “Love Real Food” is an absolute triumph and undoubtedly one of my most treasured cookbooks from this year. Its popularity speaks for itself, having garnered an astounding 300+ five-star ratings on Amazon – a testament to its widespread appeal and undeniable quality. If you’re on the hunt for accessible, incredibly delicious, and genuinely wholesome meat-free recipes that can effortlessly fit into your everyday cooking routine, then this book is an indispensable addition to your kitchen library. Kathryne’s approach to vegetarian cooking is refreshing, focusing on vibrant, fresh ingredients that culminate in satisfying meals that never feel like a compromise. It’s perfect for anyone looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into their diet, or simply seeking flavorful, feel-good food that appeals to the whole family. The recipes are straightforward, beautifully photographed, and consistently deliver delightful results, making healthy eating a joy.
Dinner: Changing The Game by Melissa Clark
“Dinner: Changing The Game” arrived in my life via a thoughtful Mother’s Day gift for both my mom and mother-in-law. The buzz surrounding this book was so compelling that, after hearing consistent praise, I swiftly decided to acquire a copy for myself just a few weeks later. While I haven’t yet worked my way through a massive quantity of its recipes, every single dish I’ve prepared has been nothing short of delicious, wonderfully creative, and memorable enough to warrant a repeat performance. Melissa Clark, a renowned food writer, truly lives up to the book’s title by presenting a fresh perspective on what dinner can be. It introduces innovative flavor combinations and streamlined techniques that genuinely make weeknight cooking more engaging and less of a chore. It’s true that some recipes occasionally call for ingredients that might require a quick trip to a specialty store or a slightly more adventurous palate, but this minor effort is consistently rewarded with exceptional results. I particularly appreciate that the book is packed with actual, practical dinner recipes, making it an invaluable resource for anyone looking to inject excitement and culinary innovation into their evening meals without excessive fuss.
Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat: Mastering the Elements of Good Cooking by Samin Nosrat
This book isn’t just a cookbook; it’s a culinary revelation and my absolute favorite from 2017. As you might know, I have a deep appreciation for any cooking reference book that goes beyond simple recipes to teach fundamental principles, and “Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat” excels in this regard. Samin Nosrat has crafted an incredible masterpiece that masterfully demystifies the core elements of cooking – balancing salt, fat, acid, and heat – in an exceptionally approachable and easy-to-understand manner. What makes this book truly stand out is its ability to empower cooks of all levels, from complete novices to seasoned professionals, by providing them with the knowledge to understand *why* recipes work, rather than just *how* to follow them. It’s an invaluable educational resource that shifts your perspective on food preparation. I was so captivated by Samin’s clear, engaging prose, combined with the stunning illustrations by Wendy MacNaughton, that I literally devoured this book like a novel, finishing it in just a few days. It’s a must-have for anyone serious about improving their cooking intuition and truly mastering the art of flavor, making it an ideal gift for anyone looking to elevate their kitchen confidence.
Sweet by Yotam Ottolenghi & Helen Goh
I’ve long been an ardent admirer of Yotam Ottolenghi’s distinctive and globally-inspired cookbooks, and his latest offering, “Sweet,” is a magnificent continuation of his culinary legacy. This book is a true treasure trove for anyone with a sweet tooth, packed with an array of stunning dessert recipes inspired by their renowned London restaurants. Having followed their culinary journey on Instagram for years, I’m consistently captivated and inspired by their innovative creations. The recipes within “Sweet” are incredibly unique, often featuring unexpected ingredients and sophisticated flavor combinations that elevate them far beyond typical dessert fare. There’s always an incredible twist that makes each creation an adventure for the palate, from spiced pavlovas to irresistible cakes and tarts. This cookbook would be an absolutely stellar gift for any baker in your life, particularly those who appreciate bold, exotic flavors and enjoy a creative challenge. To make it an even more thoughtful present, consider pairing it with a high-quality baking tool or a unique ingredient, like rosewater or tahini, featured prominently in one of its exquisite recipes.
The Food Lab: Better Home Cooking Through Science by J. Kenji López-Alt
For anyone who is a devoted fan of *Serious Eats* or simply possesses a boundless curiosity about the scientific principles underpinning good cooking, “The Food Lab” is, without exaggeration, the ultimate culinary reference book you could ever own. This colossal volume is truly textbook-sized, a testament to its encyclopedic scope and depth, yet it manages to be incredibly engaging and accessible. J. Kenji López-Alt, with his distinctive scientific approach, meticulously deconstructs culinary techniques to demonstrate the most effective and efficient ways to prepare virtually everything. He doesn’t just tell you *how* to cook; he explains the *why* behind every step, often busting common kitchen myths and revealing optimal methods based on experimental results and rigorous testing. Despite its comprehensive nature, it’s not merely a theoretical treatise; the book includes a remarkably large number of practical, delicious recipes that put the scientific principles into action. It’s an essential guide for anyone who wants to understand the mechanics of cooking and elevate their skills through knowledge, making them a more confident and capable cook.
Cooking for Jeffrey by Ina Garten
Let’s be honest, who doesn’t adore Ina Garten? I’ve always been a huge fan of the Barefoot Contessa, but even I’ve surprised myself by just how frequently I’ve turned to “Cooking for Jeffrey” over the past year. This cookbook, dedicated to her beloved husband, is a testament to Ina’s timeless elegance and her talent for creating sophisticated yet comforting food. While I might wish for a few more dedicated dinner recipes, the book still offers a wonderfully broad range of options, suitable for both effortless everyday meals and more special, celebratory occasions. Ina’s recipes are consistently reliable; they work every single time, without fail, and perfectly align with my personal taste preferences for fresh, high-quality ingredients and straightforward, delicious results. Her roasted salmon tacos have quickly become one of our new favorite weeknight dinners – a truly inspired twist on a classic – and I’m eagerly planning to make her curried shrimp and swordfish stew very soon. This book is perfect for those who appreciate classic American cooking with a touch of Hamptons chic, offering approachable elegance that makes every meal feel special.
Tartine Bread by Chad Robertson
You guys, I got onto a massive bread baking kick, specifically focusing on sourdough, at the beginning of this year! The journey was incredibly rewarding, though I confess I got a little sidetracked by travel commitments. However, one of my absolute top culinary goals for the coming year is to diligently maintain my own sourdough starter and share many more posts about the joys and techniques of bread baking with all of you. “Tartine Bread” by Chad Robertson holds an almost legendary reputation in the baking world, and for very good reason. It’s not just a collection of recipes; it’s an incredibly fascinating read, delving deep into the art and science of traditional bread making. Robertson’s detailed explanations and stunning photography make the complex process of sourdough baking feel approachable and deeply rewarding, even for those new to the craft. If you have a loved one who expresses even a passing interest in artisanal bread baking, or who simply loves the idea of creating something truly elemental and delicious from scratch, this book is an absolute must-have. It’s a foundational text that will inspire and guide them through the transformative process of creating exquisite loaves at home.
Cheers to the Publican: Recipes and Stories from an American Beer Hall by Paul Kahan & Cosmo Goss
This particular cookbook arrived as a delightful surprise gift from Connor, who knows my culinary heart so well. It’s a heartfelt ode to one of our absolute favorite West Loop restaurants in Chicago, The Publican. While its niche appeal might make it a less obvious choice for those unfamiliar with the Chicago dining scene, “Cheers to the Publican” is nonetheless a captivating read. It’s richly woven with incredible stories from local farmers and purveyors, offering a deeper connection to the ingredients and philosophy behind the restaurant. Visually, it’s stunning, packed with beautiful images that bring the Publican experience to life. The recipes themselves are exceptionally unique and adventurous; a fair warning that many of them do require harder-to-find ingredients and lean towards the more challenging side of home cooking. However, the dishes I have attempted have been nothing short of delicious, offering thought-provoking flavor combinations and culinary techniques. It’s a fantastic gift for the adventurous cook, the ardent foodie, or anyone with a special connection to Chicago’s vibrant culinary landscape, offering a glimpse into a truly inspiring culinary institution.
BraveTart: Iconic American Desserts from Homemakers to Heroes by Stella Parks
“BraveTart” is one of those highly coveted cookbooks that I’ve been eyeing and holding out for over the last month or so, and it absolutely lives up to the hype. Again, if you’re a devout fan of *Serious Eats* and appreciate a scientific, meticulous approach to baking, this is unequivocally the baking cookbook for you. Stella Parks, with her incredible precision and passion, has crafted a masterpiece that goes beyond mere recipes. It’s packed with detailed techniques and fascinating baking science, all aimed at helping you recreate beloved, nostalgic American treats in your very own kitchen. Imagine mastering homemade Oreos, perfectly chewy chocolate chip cookies, or flaky pie crusts with scientific certainty. I’ve heard nothing but incredible things about this book, with countless bakers praising its accuracy, its delicious results, and its ability to transform even complex pastries into achievable home projects. It’s an essential addition for any serious baker who loves American classics and wants to understand the *why* behind their sweetest successes, making them a true baking hero at home.
Back Pocket Pasta by Colu Henry
As a lifelong pasta lover, I am a very big and enthusiastic fan of “Back Pocket Pasta.” Many other pasta cookbooks, while wonderful, often involve time-intensive sauces, elaborate preparations, or long simmering times that aren’t always feasible for a busy weeknight. This cookbook, however, truly shines by offering a refreshing approach: it’s absolutely packed with inspired, everyday pasta recipes that are designed to be quick, accessible, and utterly delicious for *any* day of the week. Colu Henry’s philosophy focuses on simple, high-impact ingredients and smart techniques that deliver maximum flavor with minimal fuss. These are the kinds of dishes you can whip up with pantry staples and fresh additions, transforming basic ingredients into satisfying meals in minutes. It’s a game-changer for anyone who adores pasta but needs solutions for speedy, flavorful dinners without compromising on quality or taste. This book is a must-have for busy families, students, or anyone who wants to enjoy delicious pasta dishes without hours in the kitchen, proving that quick doesn’t mean boring.
Dinner in an Instant by Melissa Clark
Melissa Clark strikes again with “Dinner in an Instant,” her fantastic latest cookbook that is 100% dedicated to making the most of your pressure cooker, especially the immensely popular Instant Pot. What truly sets this cookbook apart is its commitment to creative, modern, and genuinely exciting meals that wisely stray from the more basic and often repetitive pressure-cooker recipes you might find elsewhere. Melissa Clark is an expert at developing dishes that leverage the speed and efficiency of the Instant Pot while still delivering sophisticated flavors and interesting textures. From quick weeknight stews to surprisingly fast braised meats, flavorful grains, and even desserts, she brilliantly showcases the Instant Pot’s versatility and potential. If you know someone who already owns an Instant Pot or similar electric pressure cooker, or if they’re considering purchasing one to simplify their cooking, this book would make an absolutely awesome and incredibly practical gift. It unlocks the full potential of this popular kitchen appliance, transforming it into a tool for gourmet meals in a fraction of the time.
Kitchen Creativity: Unlocking Your Inner Chef by Karen Page & Andrew Dornenburg
Written by the brilliant minds behind my all-time favorite culinary reference, The Flavor Bible, and its equally insightful counterpart, The Vegetarian Flavor Bible, “Kitchen Creativity” is their latest compelling work. This extraordinary book is not about following recipes; it’s about a much deeper, transformative journey: learning how to truly become more creative and intuitive in the kitchen. Page and Dornenburg draw upon a wealth of knowledge and inspiring ideas from renowned chefs, dissecting their creative processes and offering practical strategies for home cooks. It teaches you how to jump-start your own idea generation, fostering a mindset where you can confidently innovate and adapt. Furthermore, it shares fascinating insights into historic dishes and culinary traditions from across the globe, broadening your palate and understanding. This book is an invaluable resource for anyone who feels stuck in a cooking rut, desires to improvise with confidence, or simply wants to elevate their understanding of food and flavor beyond rote instructions. It’s a gift that keeps on giving, inspiring endless culinary exploration and transforming how one approaches every meal.
None of the specific items featured in this gift guide have been sponsored or paid for by brands. However, I did receive two of these wonderful cookbooks directly from publishers for review purposes. Please note that this post does contain Amazon and RewardStyle affiliate links. This means that if you choose to purchase an item through one of my provided links, I will earn a very small commission from the retailer. Importantly, this comes at absolutely no additional cost to you, but it significantly helps support the work and content I create here. Thank you for your continuous support!
I sincerely hope this meticulously curated 2017 cookbook gift guide provides you with ample inspiration for your holiday shopping, or perhaps even sparks an idea for a well-deserved treat for yourself. Whether you’re seeking foundational knowledge, weeknight meal solutions, or adventurous culinary challenges, these books offer a gateway to delicious discovery. Happy cooking and happy gifting!