Christmas doesn’t have to be around the corner for you to get into the festive spirit and think about your Christmas table meals or look for the perfect cookbook to buy as a gift for that friend or family member of yours who loves to cook!
That is why, in this article, we've compiled a list of 10 must-have Christmas cookbooks, all written by some of the most talented female chefs out there.
From classic recipes to modern twists on traditional favorites, these books offer a wide range of ideas and inspiration to help you make this holiday season one to remember.
If you're a fan of Joanna Gaines' cooking and home decor style, you won't want to miss her latest cookbook, "Magnolia Table: A Collection of Recipes for Gathering."
This book is all about bringing people together around the table, and it's filled with mouth-watering recipes that are perfect for any occasion, including Christmas.
One of the standout recipes in this book is the buttermilk biscuits, which are light, fluffy, and perfect for serving alongside a holiday meal.
However, what sets this cookbook apart is its emphasis on family and community, which shines through in Joanna's personal stories and photos throughout the book, so if you are all about the Christmas spirit, don’t think twice about buying this book!
Pros
Beautifully designed with personal stories and photos
Provides clear and easy-to-follow instructions for all recipes
Includes a helpful section on cooking basics for beginners
Cons
Some recipes call for ingredients that are not always easy to find
If you’re following Chrissy Teigen on social media, then you know what to expect from this book!
Packed with flavor and personality, "Cravings: Hungry for More" is a cookbook that is full of bold and delicious recipes, many of which are perfect for a festive holiday meal.
One of the standout recipes in this book is the cheesy spicy breakfast hash, which is perfect for a cozy Christmas morning brunch.
Other must-try recipes include the parmesan and arugula salad, miso carbonara, and jalapeño-parmesan-crusted grilled cheese.
Of course, even though the recipes are to die for, what makes this cookbook so unique is Chrissy's candid and hilarious writing style, which is peppered throughout the book
Therefore, it is the perfect gift or purchase for anyone who loves to have fun in the kitchen and is looking for some inspiration to take their cooking to the next level!
Pros
Features a wide range of bold and flavorful recipes
Written in Chrissy Teigen's signature hilarious and candid style
Provides helpful cooking tips and techniques throughout the book
Ree Drummond, also known as "The Pioneer Woman," is known for her comforting and approachable recipes, and "A Year of Holidays" is no exception.
This cookbook is organized by holiday, making it the perfect resource for anyone who loves to cook for special occasions.
One of the standout recipes in this book is the slow cooker glazed ham, which is perfect for a cozy Christmas dinner.
Other great recipes include the pumpkin and kale lasagna for Thanksgiving and the black-eyed pea dip for New Year's Eve.
Ree's friendly and approachable writing style makes even the most complicated recipes feel doable, so regardless of whether you're an experienced cook or just starting out, "A Year of Holidays" is a great addition to your kitchen!
Pros
Organized by holiday, making it easy to find the Christmas recipes
Written in Ree Drummond's friendly and relatable style, making even complicated recipes feel doable
Includes beautiful photos for each recipe
Cons
Some recipes require specialized kitchen equipment
As the title suggests, "Half Baked Harvest Super Simple" by Tieghan Gerard is all about easy and approachable recipes that don't sacrifice flavor.
While not 100% Christmassy, Tieghan’s cookbook is perfect for busy home cooks who want to make delicious meals without spending hours in the kitchen.
One of the standout recipes in this book is the slow cooker balsamic beef, which is perfect for a cozy Christmas dinner, while anoother must-try Christmas recipe is the creamy tomato and basil tortellini soup.
All of Tieghan’s recipes are delicious and creative, not to mention that they are easy enough for even novice cooks to tackle!
So, if you're looking for a cookbook that will help you make delicious Christmas meals in a pinch, "Half Baked Harvest Super Simple" is a great choice.
Pros
Offers delicious and festive recipes that are easy to prepare for the holiday season
Written in Tieghan Gerard's friendly and approachable style, making even complex holiday recipes feel doable
Provides a range of recipes that are perfect for holiday dinners, brunches, and gatherings, from appetizers to desserts
Cons
Not all the recipes in the book are ideal for a Christmas table
"Nigella Christmas: Food, Family, Friends, Festivities" by Nigella Lawson is a beloved classic among holiday cookbooks.
It offers a mix of traditional and modern recipes, with a focus on delicious and comforting food that is perfect for the festive season.
Lawson's warm and inviting writing style shines through in this book, making it not just a cookbook, but also a source of inspiration for festive entertaining featuring a range of recipes for all occasions, from Christmas Eve suppers to Boxing Day buffets.
Pros
Offers a mix of traditional and modern recipes for the festive season
Includes tips on festive entertaining and ideas for decorating the Christmas table
Provides a range of recipes suitable for different occasions, from holiday brunches to New Year's Eve parties
Cons
The book's focus on British Christmas traditions might be a bit limiting for some
Smith’s book includes a wealth of recipes and tips for preparing a traditional British Christmas feast, as well as plenty of inspiration for modern twists on classic dishes.
What makes it even better? The fact that it’s divided into several sections, covering everything from starters and main courses to desserts and leftovers!
Not only that but it also includes sections on party food and edible gifts, making it a great resource for festive entertaining and gift-giving for those who express their love through their cooking!
Pros
Offers a comprehensive guide to preparing a traditional British Christmas feast
Includes plenty of inspiration for modern twists on classic dishes
Includes tips for festive entertaining and ideas for edible gifts
Cons
Some recipes require more time and effort than other holiday cookbooks on this list
Best Female Chef Christmas Cookbooks Buying Guide
How Much Should I Pay For A Good Christmas Cookbook?
The price of a good Christmas cookbook can vary, but on average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $20 to $50. However, some premium cookbooks may cost more than $50.
So, as you understand, the price you pay should reflect the quality of the recipes, the uniqueness of the content, and the overall value the book provides.
What To Look For When Buying A Christmas Cookbook?
When buying a Christmas cookbook, there are a few key things to keep in mind to ensure that you get the most out of your purchase. Here are some important factors to consider:
Range Of Recipes
First of all, look for a cookbook that offers a wide variety of recipes for all aspects of the holiday season, from festive mains to indulgent desserts and everything in between.
Unique Content
Seek out cookbooks with unique and creative recipes and ideas that you won't find in other books or online.
Practical Tips
Choose a cookbook that includes practical tips and tricks for holiday cooking and entertaining, such as make-ahead recipes and freezer-friendly options.
Visual Appeal
Consider the layout, design, and quality of the photography in the cookbook to ensure that it is visually appealing and easy to follow.
Author Reputation
Last but not least, choose a cookbook written by a reputable author with a strong track record of producing high-quality cookbooks.
The Bottom Line
These 6 female-authored Christmas cookbooks offer a range of inspiration and practical advice to make your holiday season deliciously memorable, so buy either one of these books and we guarantee you will have a merry Christmas!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Old Cookbooks Better?
Not necessarily! While some old cookbooks can be treasures that offer unique insights into traditional cooking techniques and regional cuisines, many of them are outdated and may not be suitable for modern tastes or dietary restrictions.
On the other hand, newer cookbooks often incorporate contemporary ingredients and techniques while still honoring classic recipes!
I'm Barbara Hunt, the founder of WomenChefs.org. Being a mom of two, I understand the challenges of meal planning and the monotony it can bring.
That's why I created WomenChefs.org, a platform dedicated to showcasing the skills and delicious dishes crafted by amazing women. My goal is to provide a space where women can find delectable recipes that tantalize their taste buds and ignite their senses.
I hope you'll join me in exploring WomenChefs.org and discovering your next favorite recipe. Let's embrace culinary diversity and try something new together!
