The Best Family Cookbooks

A great cookbook isn't just a collection of recipes - it's your trusty sidekick in the kitchen, it’s memories from comforting mealtimes with distant relatives, and it can become a cherished family heirloom. And the family cookbook needs to be as unique as every family, from those figuring out nutrition for their picky little eaters, to those always on the go and needing fast food without resorting to takeaways.

We’ve written a list of the best family cookbooks to help you find the perfect fit for your family. Each one focuses on nutrition and simplicity because family cooking is its own special art form - you’re already juggling hectic schedules and don’t need an overcomplicated, expensive recipe to cook every evening just to get a decent dinner on the table. So, keep reading to find the perfect cookbook to meet your family's needs and make cooking a joy for everyone involved.

 

Best Cookbooks For Families 
 

 

 

Sheep Can’t Bake But You Can by Sarah Walden

Sheep Can’t Bake But You Can

 

Why we love it:

  • - Part of the Practically Awesome Animals series, this book uses hilarious animal characters and easy-to-follow instructions to teach kids all sorts of baking to cooking.
  • - It's fun, practical, and the perfect way to get kids excited about being in the kitchen.

 

Join Sheep and his laugh-out-loud friends on a baking adventure like no other! This colourful book covers eight essential baking skills, including how to make sponge cakes and breads, biscuits, and even gluten-free and dairy-free treats. With step-by-step photos and vibrant illustrations, "Sheep Can’t Bake But You Can" makes learning to bake a piece of cake - literally!

 

Disney Villains: Devilishly Delicious Cookbook by Julie Tremaine

Disney Villains: Devilishly Delicious Cookbook

 

Why we love it:

  • - It has stunning full-colour photography, alternative ingredient suggestions, and cooking tips straight from the villains themselves.
  • - It’s perfect for adding a little Disney trickery to your kitchen and will be loved by all ages.

 

Step into the dark side of culinary delights with the Devilishly Delicious Cookbook! Iconic baddies like Cruella de Vil, Maleficent, and Ursula guide you through over 50 sinfully tasty recipes inspired by their mischievous ways. Whether you're craving bewitching appetisers, delectable mains, or decadent desserts, this cookbook has a villain-themed treat for every occasion. 

 

Bored of Lunch Healthy Air Fryer: 30 Minute Meals by Nathan Anthony

Bored of Lunch Healthy Air Fryer: 30 Minute Meals

 

Why we love it:

  • - From Salt and Pepper Squid to Crispy Fried Chicken, Meatball & Mozzarella Orzo Bake, Fish & Chips, and a Juicy Pork - Roast, these recipes are quick, delicious, and made with everyday ingredients. 
  • - Air frying has never been this easy - or this tasty!

 

Say goodbye to mealtime monotony with "Bored of Lunch Healthy Air Fryer: 30 Minute Meals," the latest culinary gem from Nathan Anthony.. This book is packed with super speedy, calorie-counted recipes for healthy meals in 30 minutes or less - prep time included! Plus, using an air fryer is a lower-energy alternative to a conventional oven, helping you save on your energy bills.

 

Fitwaffle's Baked in One by Eloise Head

Fitwaffle's Baked in One

 

Why we love it:

  • - All the recipes are simple and relatively mess-free as they can be made in a single 20cm square tin.
  • - It features popular recipes from Fitwaffle's social media that are loved by millions of followers, plus some unseen additions.

 

Indulge in sweet simplicity! Eloise, known as Fitwaffle to her 10 million followers, shares 100 easy dessert recipes that can all be made using just one 20cm square tin. From her social media hits to brand new creations, these recipes are perfect for bakers of all levels as many require fewer than 5 ingredients, so you can whip up treats like Chocolate Chip Cookie Magic Bars and Speculoos Cheesecake without breaking a sweat. And for those special occasions, wow your friends and family with show-stoppers like Unicorn Fudge and Chocolate-Stuffed Brookies. Don't miss the seasonal favourites either, like Gooey Easter Egg Brownies, which are so delicious you'll want to bake them all year round!

 

Llama Can't Cook But You Can! by Sarah Walden

Llama Can't Cook But You Can!

 

Why we love it:

  • - Llama and his friends make learning to cook an entertaining experience, perfect for readers of all ages.
  • - Includes a variety of recipes including some that are plant-based, catering to diverse dietary preferences and promoting healthy eating.

 

Llama and his hilarious friends as they guide you through the world of cooking! From mastering basics like boiled eggs to crafting a perfect roast chicken dinner, this book covers all the essentials plus a variety of dishes, with plenty of plant-based options, too. It's perfect for budding chefs of all ages to learn essential skills while having a laugh with our delightful animal pals - because even if Llama can't cook, you certainly can!

 

Easy Air Fryer by Susanna Unsworth

Easy Air Fryer

 

Why we love it:

  • - Discover how a variety of dishes, from breakfast to dessert, can all be easily whipped up in your Air Fryer.
  • - It gives guilt-free indulgence with healthy recipes that don't skimp on flavour.

 

Ready to make your Air Fryer your new best friend? With this cookbook from Susanna Unsworth, you'll breeze through over 75 simple and scrumptious recipes that turn everyday supermarket staples into gourmet delights. 
This book covers everything from quick dinners and brunches to mouthwatering recipes like Sausage and Egg Breakfast Muffins, Spinach and Goat Cheese Frittata, and Nashville Hot Honey Chicken Fried Burger. Say goodbye to boring meals and hello to all kinds of tasty creations!

 

Bored of Lunch Healthy Slow Cooker by Nathan Anthony

Bored of Lunch Healthy Slow Cooker

 

Why we love it:

  • - All recipes are 500 calories or under, perfect for enjoying your favourite meals guilt-free.
  • - Minimal prep and clever tricks make these recipes perfect for busy weeknights.

 

Nathan Anthony's all-new recipes make healthy, delicious meals a breeze. These slow cooker delights require minimal prep and are all under 500 calories, so you can enjoy lighter versions of your favourites without the guilt. From Teriyaki Beef Bowls to Carrot Cake Overnight Oats, each recipe is designed to be budget-friendly and packed with flavour. And with a mouthwatering photo for every dish, you'll have all the inspiration you need to get cooking. Healthy, satisfying meals have never been so easy - or delicious!

 

The Vegan Air Fryer

The Vegan Air Fryer

 

Why we love it:

  • - 70 plant-based recipes that make healthy eating fast and fuss-free.
  • - Ideal for those new to vegan eating or air frying with simple and delicious recipes.

 

Ready to make healthy eating a breeze? "The Vegan Air Fryer" is your go-to guide for delicious, vibrant, plant-based meals that are quick and easy. Whether you're new to veganism or just got an air fryer, this cookbook has you covered with 70 mouthwatering recipes from tasty breakfasts and simple lunches to snacks, dinners, and baking. It has super quick meals ready in 15 minutes, 30-minute dinners, and even sweet treats like bread, cakes, cookies, and desserts. Eating your greens has never been so easy!

 

Air-fryer Cookbook

Air-fryer Cookbook

 

Why we love it:

  • - Nutritionist Jenny Tschiesche simplifies meal prep with recipes that are fast, easy, and healthy for busy families.
  • - Has recipes that kids will love, like crispy chicken wings and chips (but cooked with less oil) so mealtimes are healthier and will be a hit with everyone.

 

“The Family Air-Fryer Cookbook," has 101 tried and tested recipes for food cooked to perfection with less oil, making it ideal for families looking to eat better. Nutritionist Jenny Tschiesche offers recipes from global cuisines, perfect for snacks, sides, meals, and desserts. Make cooking easy and fun for the whole family with this essential cookbook!

 

Pinch of Nom Express by Kay & Kate Allinson

Pinch of Nom Express

 

Why we love it:

  • - Bestselling authors Kate and Kay Allinson bring you all the comfort food you love, faster than ever. 
  • - The recipes are tasty, nutritious, and easy to follow, so cooking can be done with the whole family. 

 

Looking for quick, delicious, and slimming-friendly meals? "Pinch of Nom Express" has you covered with 100 speedy recipes, perfect for air fryers or slow cookers! This full-colour cookbook is packed with easy dishes to fit easily into your busy life, from hearty breakfasts to tasty fakeaways. Whether you're whipping up a family meal in 20 minutes or letting your kitchen gadgets do the work, there's something here for every taste and schedule!

 

The Great British Bake Off: Favourite Flavours

The Great British Bake Off: Favourite Flavours

 

Why we love it:

  • - Bring the joy of "The Great British Bake Off" into your home with guidance from Paul, Prue, the Bake Off team and the 2022 bakers to show you how to get the perfect result!
  • - Baking together is a great way to spend quality time as a family (and makes a delicious treat at the end!)

 

Bring the Bake Off magic right into your kitchen! “Favourite Flavours” is full of easy-to-follow recipes and inspiration around mixing and matching flavours, but you’ve also got your classic combinations if you’re more partial to tradition. Whether you're craving a tart blackcurrant millefeuille, a fresh passion fruit trifle, a sticky ginger treacle tart, or a rich chocolate and speculoos cake, Paul, Prue, and the Bake Off team, are here to guide you to baking bliss. 

 

5 Ingredients Mediterranean: Simple Incredible Food

5 Ingredients Mediterranean: Simple Incredible Food

 

Why we love it:

  • - It’s great for busy families and getting the kids involved in cooking as all the recipes need just five ingredients and minimal prep time.
  • - It has a range of dishes from different Mediterranean cuisines to keep meal times varied and easy to introduce new flavours to picky eaters. 

 

Step into the sun-soaked flavours of the Mediterranean with Jamie Oliver. Building on the success of his previous books, Jamie is back with over 125 mouthwatering recipes inspired by his travels around the Med. It’s got refreshing salads, hearty soups, savoury pies, pasta dishes, sweet treats - and each dish uses just five ingredients, so there’s no more lengthy shopping lists or piles of washing up!

 

The Air Fryer Cookbook by Todd English

The Air Fryer Cookbook

 

Why we love it:

  • - With an air fryer, you can enjoy your favourite fried foods with a fraction of the fat and calories, so it’s perfect for being health-conscious.
  • - It’s great for busy families as the recipes are quick and easy - and light on your wallet!

 

"The Air Fryer Cookbook" offers 75 delicious, budget-friendly, and healthy recipes from crowd-pleasing appetisers to a wide array of main dishes, sides, desserts, and homemade sauces. Think crispy Chinese duck, spicy meatballs, summer vegetable gratin, rosemary roasted potatoes, and even raspberry tarts! It's the perfect solution for those who love the taste and texture of deep-fried foods but want to avoid the calories (and mess!) of traditional frying. This also means it’s easier to feed fussy little eaters with healthier options. 

 

The Slimming Foodie In Minutes by Pip Payne

The Slimming Foodie in Minutes

 

Why we love it:

  • - It makes healthy eating quick and easy. 
  • - Quick recipes mean less time in the kitchen and more quality time with the family.

 

One of the biggest obstacles to healthy eating is time - after a long day it can be tempting to cave into a takeaway or grab a quick microwave meal, especially when trying to keep up with the kids. But fast food doesn’t have to be unhealthy! “The Slimming Foodie in Minutes'' has over 100 low-calorie recipes, all of which can be cooked in 30 minutes or less. Known for making simple cooking sensational, The Slimming Foodie shows you don't have to give up flavour to eat better. Now, with these speedy, tasty recipes, slimming down is more convenient than ever.

 

PING!: Cook, Bake, Create Using Just Your Microwave by.Justine Pattison 

PING!: Cook, Bake, Create Using Just Your Microwave

 

Why we love it:

  • - It’s great for busy families as it’s all quick and easy recipes that can be made using just the microwave.
  • - The cooking method is simple and safe so the kids can get involved with meal prep. 

 

Ready to revolutionise your kitchen? "PING!" is here to make microwave cooking your new best friend! Chuck out those boring microwave meals and try these cost-effective, energy-efficient, and downright delicious recipes - all made with just your microwave oven.

This cookbook by Justine Pattison showcases dishes specifically designed for microwave cooking, proving that you can create beautiful, tasty meals with minimal fuss. Get ready to be amazed by what you can whip up with just a "PING!"

 

Unofficial Recipes from the Upside Down by Susanna Geoghegan

Unofficial Recipes from the Upside Down

 

Why we love it:

  • - The Stranger Things theme adds a novelty twist to cooking that kids will love.
  • - Its instructions are easy to follow and encourage kids to get hands-on in the kitchen to learn basic cooking skills while having fun.

 

Turn your dinner plans ‘Upside Down’ with these recipes from Susanna Geoghegan. Whether you've been hooked on Stranger Things since the start or just love whipping up tasty treats, this cookbook has over 50 retro American-themed recipes straight out of Hawkins, Indiana!

These 80s-inspired recipes are given a modern twist and include dishes like Demogorgonzola Pasta, The Rocky Road to Dungeons and Dragons, and Pineapple Upside-Down Cake! Ready to cook up a storm? Let's get strange in the kitchen!

 

The Ramadan Cookbook by Anisa Karolia

The Ramadan Cookbook

 

Why we love it:

  • - It’s great for anyone looking for Indian recipes for celebrations, festivals or dinner parties!  The illustrations are high quality and help those not experienced with Indian cooking to make the recipes confidently.
  • - It Includes special dishes for Eid al-Fitr celebrations to help families make the festive occasions extra special.

 

Make your Ramadan meals both delicious and effortless "Ramadan Feasts," where you'll find 80 easy-to-make recipes that are perfect for the holy month - or just celebrating through the year! Whether you're looking for hearty predawn meals for Suhoor, satisfying dishes for Iftar, or festive treats for celebrating Eid al-Fitr with loved ones, this cookbook has got you covered. 

Created by the beloved food blogger Anisa Karolia, and accompanied by stunning photos, this cookbook is a must-have for anyone wanting to eat well before and after fasting.

 

The Ultimate Slow Cooker Cookbook by Clare Andrews

The Ultimate Slow Cooker Cookbook

 

Why we love it:

  • - It has lots of informative and tasty recipes, especially for anyone starting out using a slow cooker. 
  • - The beauty of a slow cooker is making recipes that you can set and forget, freeing up more family time.

 

"The Ultimate Slow Cooker Cookbook" is here to save you time, money, and energy while delivering big on flavour. Whether you're new to slow cooking or a seasoned pro, this book will help you to make mouth-watering meals with minimal effort. With over 80 recipes, it covers everything from essentials like jacket potatoes, rice, whole chicken, and chops, to more elaborate meals like stroganoff, honey and hoisin duck wraps, and vegan chilli con carne. You can even make pizza and sticky toffee pudding! With your slow cooker doing all the hard work making dishes everyone will love, you'll have more time to enjoy time with the family. 

 

The Pepperpot Diaries: Stories From My Caribbean Table by Andi Oliver

The Pepperpot Diaries: Stories From My Caribbean Table

 

Why we love it:

  • - It has exciting recipes that bring the taste of the Caribbean straight to your kitchen.
  • - It celebrates Caribbean culture and heritage and is a great way for families to explore and appreciate diverse traditions.

 

Andi Oliver's much-anticipated first cookbook comes from the heart of Caribbean cookery, showcasing both traditional and innovative recipes that celebrate the rich tapestry of ingredients and vibrant flavours from across the islands.
Andi takes you through her identity and heritage with simple yet sensational dishes that bring the taste of the Caribbean right to your table. Each recipe is a piece of a larger story of cultural influences, history, and heritage that uniquely shape Caribbean cuisine.

 

Cook Clever: One Chop, No Waste, All Taste by Shivi Ramoutar

Cook Clever

 

Why we love it:

  • - It uses affordable ingredients and clever swaps to keep costs low while still delivering great-tasting meals.
  • - It encourages using what you already have with the aim of reducing food waste and making cooking more sustainable.

 

One chop, no waste, all taste – that's the mantra of "Cook Clever”. It’s full of ingenious supermarket-swap shortcuts and simple, low-cost ingredients to create everyday feasts in a flash. Shivi Ramoutar has done all the thinking so you don’t have to, and her no-mess prep techniques and cleverly chosen ingredients will make the most of what you have in the kitchen.

 

Bon Appétit!

 

So that’s the full rundown of the best cookbooks for families. From comforting classics to exciting new dishes, these cookbooks are designed to cater to every taste and dietary need. Whether you're cooking for tiny tots with fussy appetites or need hearty dinners that satisfy the whole family's cravings, these books cover it all. 

Looking to grow your cookbook collection? Check out all our other cookbooks including some of the best celebrity and TV chef books, best air fryer cookbooks, best slow cooker cookbooks, best healthy eating cookbooks, and more!
 

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