How to Write a Cookbook: A Simple Guide
Did you know it took Julia Child 9 yearsto write and publish her first book?
You probably know that Mastering the Art of French Cooking was (and still is) one of the most influential cookbooks ever written. And as a cooking enthusiast, you may have dabbled with the idea of writing a cookbook yourself.
Does it feel like a daunting task? Would you like to know how to start a cookbook and, when it’s complete, get it printed?
In this post, we’ll outline how to write a cookbook so you can share your best recipes with others. Read on for all the inspiration you need!
How to Write Your Own Cookbook (In 4 Easy Steps)
Cookbooksales are boomingin recent years, making now the perfect time to tackle your project. Here’s how to get started.
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Personal or Professional?
Before you begin, you need to know who you’re writing a cookbook for.
Is this something fun you’re creating for your own personal kitchen (or a few family members and friends)? Or do you have bigger plans, like trying to sell your cookbook to a wide audience?
A cookbook for personal use can have a casual tone, and the photos you snap on your smartphone will probably be sufficient. If you’re hoping to sell your cookbook, you’ll need to factor in the costs of professional photography, book layout, and marketing.
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Define Your Audience
No matter how amazing your recipes are, there’s no single cookbook that will appeal to everyone. Make sure you include the most relevant recipes and advice by considering:
- How much cooking experience does your audience have?
- Do they shop at the supermarket? A health food store? A farmer’s market?
- Are they willing to take risks, or do they want flavors that are familiar?
- Are the most interested in quick meals, impressing guests, or eating healthfully?
Imagine your ideal reader avatar(a busy mom, a retired professional, a student on a tight budget) and begin writing your cookbook with their needs in mind.
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Organize Your Recipes
How will you organize your cookbook? It needs to make sense with the theme of the book and, even more importantly, to the reader.
For example, you could organize by course (appetizer, entree, dessert). Then, break each course into sections based on its main ingredient (chicken, seafood, vegetarian).
You could also divide your recipes by the type of cuisine (Italian, Mexican, Greek) or by the time required (“Quick Midweek Meals” or “On the Table in Under 30 Minutes”).
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Envision the Finished Product
How many recipes and photographs will you include? What type of fonts and layout elements will you use (charts, lists, infographics)? What image do you want on the cover, and what accent colors will you use throughout the book?
If you’re writing a cookbook for yourself, you might not be so concerned with these details. But if your goal is to sell your cookbook, you’ll want to enlist professional help with the design and photography.
How to Write a Cookbook: Now You Know
Now that you know how to write a cookbook, what are you waiting for? Gather your best recipes and get writing!
Once your cookbook is complete, what’s next? Are you thinking about getting it professionally bound and printed?
Whether you want one copy for your own use or you want to become the next Julia Child, we can help. Contact us todayand let’s discuss your project!
