The holidays are the perfect time to get new cookbooks—they make ideal gifts for your family, friends, and yourself. This time, we’ve selected five new cookbooks, fresh from the printer this November, that will help you expand your cooking and baking horizons. These books introduce new techniques and products, allowing you to surprise yourself and your guests with exciting, flavorful dishes.
Not Too Sweet by Jessica Seinfeld
This is Jessica Seinfeld’s sixth cookbook, and this time she’s focusing on easy and guilt-free desserts. From baking with sweet potatoes (Coconut Rum Pie) to healthier versions of classic desserts and cookies, it’s perfect for every kind of diet or restriction. “Jerry is crazy about every recipe in this book,” Seinfeld told InStyle Magazine. “I’m bringing home dessert every single night, and he’s like, ‘Oh my God, this book is incredible.’ He loves the roasted grape turnovers. Those are really special.” What about chocolate Babka? Seinfeld, apparently, is not ready to go there yet.
Sandwiches of History The Cookbook: All the Best (and Most Surprising) Things People Have Put Between Slices of Bread, by Barry W. Enderwick
Everyone has their favorite signature sandwich. Enderwick, the creator of the @sandwichesofhistory, debuts with a witty, well-researched look at sandwiches through the ages. Featuring recipes from 1865’s Toast Sandwich to 1974’s Surprise Sandwich( scallions, black olives, cheddar, and chili powder broiled on an English muffin. Yum), he provides historical context, citations, and notes on each recipe’s strengths and flaws. The collection is a quirky historical artifact and a practical cookbook, with unique recipes. History buffs and sandwich lovers will appreciate this accessible, delightful volume
Open Sesame: 45 Sweet and Savory Recipes for Tahini & All Things Sesame by Rachel Belle
“Your Last Meal” podcaster Rachel Belle has a new book out celebrating the goodness of Tahini. Belle uses Tahini’s versatile qualities—it is an ancient and perfect superfood enriched with vitamins and minerals, ideal for both sweet and savory dishes.
Belle offers globally inspired recipes, such as Chocolate Miso Whoopie Pie with Tahini Cream(OMG!), Falafel-Spiced Tahini Deviled Eggs with Crispy Chickpeas & Creamy Israeli-Style Hummus. It’s the perfect opp to bring Tahini into your life if you haven’t yet.
A Kwanzaa Keepsake and Cookbook: Celebrating the Holiday with Family, Community, and Tradition by Jessica B. Harris
From the award-winning author of High on the Hog, which inspired the Netflix series of the same name, comes the updated edition of A Kwanzaa Keepsake. This celebration of African American culture, food, and family features revised recipes & new stories. The book explores Kwanzaa’s seven principles with themed feasts, including dishes like Seasoned Olives and Mechoui-Style Lamb for Umoja (Unity), and Sweet Potato Fritters for Kujichagulia (Self-Determination) and our personal favorite: killer pecan pie with molasses whipped cream.
Pan y Dulce: The Latin American Baking Book (Pastries, Desserts, Rustic Breads, Savory Baking, and More) by Bryan Ford
Bryan Ford, the acclaimed author of New World Sourdough and Netflix judge on Blue Ribbon Baking Championship, is introducing home bakers to the vibrant world of Latin American baking, in Pan Y Dulce. The book features 150 mouthwatering recipes, from buttery medialunas and alfajores with dulce de leche to sweet-salty golfeados, guava-filled pastelitos, and savory fugazzeta flatbreads. Just saying these words makes your mouth watery. Ford combines practical techniques with rich cultural history, offering bakers a chance to explore the diverse flavors of Latin America, the Caribbean, and beyond. A must-have for any adventurous baker.
