October is National Cookbook Month. Can you guess the year the first cookbook was written in English? How about when the first cookbook for children was published? The answers to these questions are below in a brief history of cookbooks.
The oldest recorded recipe in history dates back to Babylon in 1750 B.C. Four culinary tablets made from clay featured a recipe for meat stew.
The first cookbook written in English was “The Forme Of Cury,” compiled by chefs of King Richard II in 1390.
In 1796, the first cookbook ever written by an American was “American Cookery” by Amelia Simmons.
In 1876, the first cookbook for children was published featuring easy-to-prepare recipes.
We want to celebrate National Cookbook Month with fun and delicious recipes for young chefs and bakers from these five kid friendly cookbooks. Also, as we move into the holiday season, baking and cooking with kids can be a wonderful way to keep excited bodies and busy minds occupied!
By Danielle Kartes
Ages 4 - 7
This kid-friendly cookbook includes:
More than 45 fun and simple kid-friendly recipes for breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, desserts, and more!
Tips to personalize each recipe to make the time in the kitchen special.
Conversation starters, ideas for making joyful memories together, and even some silly jokes!
By Joanna Saltz
Ages 6 - 9
This cookbook is filled with recipes where young chefs will learn basic skills, like how to make the gooey grilled cheese (the secret: use a waffle iron) and upgrade their favorite store-bought foods (Chicken Nuggets). It also includes restaurant copycat recipes and desserts and snacks inspired by beloved pop culture characters.
By Katharine Ibbs
Ages 5 - 11
This children’s cookbook will inspire new chefs with everything they need to know to cook delicious meals and sweet treats! Mix, blend, baste, roast, steam, and bake with this fantastic guide that includes easy-to-follow recipes.
By America’s Test Kitchen Kids
Ages 8 to 12
America's Test Kitchen once again brings their scientific know-how, rigorous testing, and hands-on learning to KIDS!
Recipes were thoroughly tested by more than 5,000 kids to get them just right for cooks of all skill levels
Step-by-step photos of tips and techniques will help young chefs feel like pros in their own kitchen
Testimonials from kid test cooks
By Barton Seaver
Ages 8 - 12
Join Barton Seaver—master chef and National Geographic Explorer—on a year-round culinary adventure as he explores what it takes to create the ultimate dish. Barton provides mouthwatering recipes, the ins and outs of healthy eating, awesome crafts and activities, and food-focused challenges, proving once and for all that cooking can be a blast.