If you can’t tell by now, I am a big ole’ excited nerd for everything holiday related. Twinkling lights, yummy food, friends and family – it makes me want to siiiinnnnngggggg!!! Fa-la-la-la-laaaaaa!! Just in case you need proof, here is me giving this year’s tree a hug:

Since it is the gift-giving season, I thought I’d throw together some of my favorites that I think any cooking-lover would be happy to receive. Since I’m old timey and still like books and magazines (there is something about paper, right?) – that’s what you’ll find on my little list. Alright, let’s go!

#1 Southern Living Off the Eaten Path Second Helpings

THIS is my favorite cookbook. If you know anyone who loves Southern cooking as much as I do, this is the one to gift! Basically a dude traveled around the south and hit up all the fabulous diners and got their best recipes – how awesome is that? You can take a trip to the best Southern Mom and Pop restaurants through this book. There are phenomenal desserts, burgers, sandwiches, sides – you name it, this book has got it. I’ve made this Godsey’s Grill Kickin’ Chicken Sandwich with bacon, melty cheese and sriracha hot sauce. Have mercy. I’ve also made Sweet P’s Cowboy Cookies which have coconut, granola, chocolate, walnuts and dates. Totally obsessed with these cookies. Last, I made Stinky & Coco’s Patty Melt which is up there in my top burgers of all time. Whoever gets this cookbook will be thrilled!

#2 Subscription to Bon Appetite Magazine

Okay, so when I first picked up this magazine I thought it was going to be all figs, fancy-pants and complicated recipes I wouldn’t want to make. Silly Annie, not so at all! This magazine really showcases great seasonal recipes and highlights easy to learn techniques that I wasn’t familiar with. Learning how best to use fresh ingredients and adding twists to old classics has been my favorite benefit from getting this in the mail every month. And the photography is always pretty breathtaking to boot! This super simple Spaghetti with Tomatoes and Anchovy Butter was perfection and SO EASY! This Shrimp & Grits with Sausage and Beer? DUH, amazing. I often get inspired by what I see on the pages of this magazine, I’m sure you’re gifted pal will too!

#3 Barefoot Contessa Cookbook

I’m sure you saw this one coming! We did have Ina Day after all. This is one of those cookbooks I flip through prior to any dinner party to get ideas as it pretty much has everything you’d need and the dishes are delicious. It’d make a great gift for people who love to entertain. I’ve made her Hummus which is incredibly tasty and easy peasy to make. Parker’s Split Pea Soup from this cookbook is one of my favorite soups, I’ve made it countless times. It’s one that I CRAVE. And of course, her Turkey Meatloaf is unbelievable. Take it from a gal who knows her meatloaf, this one is the real deal.

Okie doke, that’s all I’ve got! I hope this quick list helps with some ideas for your friends and family who like to cook! What are your favorite cookbooks? I’m always looking for new ones, so let me know! Happy holidays everyone! <3