The Best Cooking Books of 2025
As we hit the midpoint of 2025, the cookbook world is buzzing with fresh releases that blend innovative techniques, cultural storytelling, and everyday practicality. From vibrant vegetarian feasts to heartfelt immigrant narratives, these books aren’t just collections of recipes—they’re invitations to rethink how we cook and connect. Drawing from expert reviews and editor picks, here’s our roundup of the top 10 cooking books that have earned a permanent spot on shelves this year. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or just starting out, these titles deliver flavor, inspiration, and a dash of joy.
1. Fresh India by Meera Sodha
In a world of burnout, Sodha’s vegetarian cookbook feels like a warm hug. Born from her own kitchen rut, it features simple, pleasure-driven recipes like spiced cauliflower rice and mango lassi cheesecake that transform weeknights into celebrations. Perfect for anyone rediscovering the fun in chopping onions.
2. The Wishbone Kitchen Cookbook by Various (Gift-Ready Edition)
This beautifully packaged gem arrives ready to delight, with crowd-pleasing dishes like herb-roasted chicken and seasonal salads. It’s a go-to for holiday gifting or displaying on your counter—think effortless entertaining with a side of Southern charm.
3. Umai by [Author from Vogue] (Memoir-Meets-Miso)
Weaving personal stories into umami-packed recipes, Umai explores Japanese flavors through miso glazes and fermented veggies. It’s a quiet powerhouse for home cooks craving depth without complexity, blending memoir and method seamlessly.
4. Lismore Castle: A Seasonal Diary by Laura and William Burlington
Part fairytale, part recipe book, this Irish stunner draws from ancient gardens for dishes like beetroot gravlax and soda bread. Atmospheric photos and duke-era tales make it as much a read as a resource—ideal for seasonal, garden-inspired meals.
5. Simply Malaysian by [Author from delicious.] (One-Pot Wonders)
Big on bold flavors like shrimp paste and coconut milk, this book shines with accessible recipes such as lime-coriander chicken and sambal skate. It’s a low-fuss entry into Malaysian cuisine, promising joy in every spice-laden pot.
6. Sugarcane by Arlyn Osborne
Filipino-American desserts take center stage in this sweet tooth’s dream, with standouts like ube milk crinkles and pineapple pie. Osborne’s bakery-inspired treats are crowd-pleasers, proving that buttery crusts can (and should) feed a room.
7. Bake Club by Christina Tosi
From the Milk Bar maestro comes a festive playbook of gingersnaps and layer cakes that spark joy. Tosi’s infectious energy turns baking into playtime—grab it if you want cookies that taste like childhood nostalgia upgraded.
8. Setting the Table: Brassica by [From WIRED 2024 Carryover, but Fresh in 2025 Context]
Focusing on humble veggies like celery root and beans, this inventive guide offers well-tested sauces and pastas. It’s for the curious cook ready to elevate the everyday, with tips that turn mystery produce into meals.
9. Good Things by Samin Nosrat
The Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat sequel delivers communal recipes for lingering over—think shared platters and simple gatherings. Nosrat’s wisdom shines in dishes that prioritize connection, making it a must for hosting without the hassle.
10. Tenderheart: Field to Table by Hetty Lui McKinnon
A vegetable-forward triumph with global twists on salads and stews, this book emphasizes resilience and roots. McKinnon’s vibrant, veg-heavy plates are as nourishing for the soul as they are for the body—perfect for mindful, flavorful eating.
These picks reflect 2025’s trends: sustainability, storytelling, and stress-free cooking. Pro tip: Start with one recipe per book to build your confidence. What’s your go-to cookbook this year? Drop it in the comments—we’re always hungry for recommendations!
