The best cookbooks of 2025

Best for: Biscuit lovers

“Get ready to fall in love with your biscuit tin all over again! This clever cookbook takes Australia’s most iconic biscuits and transforms them into show-stopping desserts that’ll have everyone asking for the recipe. Think indulgent slices, no-bake cheesecakes, and creative twists that are ridiculously easy. Born from an exciting collaboration between The Australian Women’s Weekly and Arnott’s executive chef Vanessa Horton, these recipes prove the best ingredients are already in your pantry. Perfect for busy cooks who want maximum wow with minimum fuss!” – Fran Abdallaoui.

Best for: the serious sweet tooth

“I love this book as it is a wonderful collection of recipes from all my favourite bakers like Natalie Paull, Michael James, Helen Goh, Claire Saffitz and Claire Ptak and so many more.  It’s a true celebration of talent and a must for every keen baker.” – Fran Abdallaoui.

Also available at:

• $29 at Big W

Best for: The meal planner

“Adelaide mum of two Nabula El Mourid offers a practical grocery guide we’ve all needed. No preaching, just smart swaps, budget-friendly tips and family friendly recipes. El Mourid demystifies pantry and fridge staples, and share genius produce storage hacks that’ll stop food waste in its tracks. It’s like shopping with a knowledgeable friend who wants you to succeed.” – Fran Abdallaoui.

Also available at:

• $39.99 at Big W

Best for: Every Australian home

Our national treasure Maggie Beer has shared her beautiful recipes with The Australian Women’s Weekly magazine for more than a decade. This stunning hardcover cookbook showcases her favourites, from her seasonal approach to cooking to her work in aged care with the Maggie Beer Foundation. With Maggie’s iconic recipes and gorgeous Barossa Valley imagery, it makes the perfect gift.

Also available at:

• $45 at Big W

Best for: Fuss-free family meals

In her follow-up to the bestselling The Simple Dinner Edit, Nicole Maguire’s Simple Dinners Every Day tackles the eternal question of what’s for dinner. With 100 flavour-packed recipes designed for real life, this book is all about making weeknights easier with tips for shopping, prepping and planning.

Also available at:

• $44.99 at Big W

Best for: Time-poor cooks

Chrissie Swan’s The Shortcut Queen is a brilliant collection of practical recipes and clever tips that busy cooks everywhere will turn to time and again. This is real-life cooking from someone who truly understands the chaos of family dinners, making it an absolute must-have for time-poor home cooks. Keen for a sneak peek? Chrissie has shared four of her favourite recipes from The Shortcut Queen right here.

Best for: Creating festive family traditions

For generations, Australian families have trusted The Australian Women’s Weekly for our Christmas recipes. Now, our beautiful Christmas Collection brings together everything you need for the perfect festive season. With Test Kitchen tested recipes you can count on, this is the only Christmas cookbook your family will need. Whether you’re hosting your first Christmas or carrying on treasured traditions, our collection will help you create magical moments around the table.

Best for: Easy home cooking

In 2025, Steph De Sousa returned to our Test Kitchen to create Easy Dinner Queen, her latest number one best-selling cookbook. Following the success of her Air Fryer Queen cookbook, Steph has shone the spotlight on her other favourite cooking styles. Here you’ll find easy dinners and desserts in her clever chapters for one pan, slow cooker and tray bake dishes.

Also available at:

• $29.99 at Big W

Best for: The entertainer

For anyone who loves entertaining, The Madrusan Cocktail Companion is an absolute treasure trove. This stunning hardback brings together over 2800 cocktail recipes, with the stories behind classic drinks alongside modern variations. From nailing the perfect serve to discovering forgotten gems that deserve a comeback, this comprehensive guide will transform the way you approach cocktail making at home.