Top 15 Vegan Cookbooks that Every Herbivore Needs

Curious about our picks for the top 15 vegan cookbooks? Have we got a fun and helpful list for you!

With the explosion of vegan cookbooks and vegan blogs sprouting up over the past decade, it’s never been easier to follow a plant-based diet. Whether you want simple, no-nonsense recipes or sumptuous desserts and meals that you can just toss in your Instant Pot, there’s a vegan cookbook for everyone and everything. But what’s the best vegan cookbook out there?

And, for those who want to go even further learning how to make vegan recipes at home, how about taking a vegan cooking class?

Best Vegan Cookbooks: Our Criteria

When determining the best vegan cookbooks, several essential criteria come into play. These include:

Health and Sustainability: Vegan cookbooks promote a diet that is not only kind to animals but also beneficial for your health and the planet. Readers are drawn to cookbooks that emphasize the health benefits of plant-based eating and its positive impact on the environment.

Diverse Recipe Range: The best vegan cookbooks offer a diverse range of recipes, from quick and easy weeknight meals to indulgent and impressive dishes for special occasions. This variety appeals to a wide audience, catering to both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.

Innovative Ingredients and Techniques: Many readers are attracted to vegan cookbooks that introduce them to new and innovative ingredients and cooking techniques. Whether it’s creating plant-based cheese alternatives or experimenting with unique grains and legumes, these cookbooks inspire culinary creativity.

Appealing Presentation: High-quality food photography and appealing design are crucial aspects that draw readers in. Vegan cookbooks with beautifully styled photos of their recipes can spark readers’ appetites and make the dishes more enticing.

Ethical and Compassionate Approach: Readers who choose a vegan lifestyle often appreciate cookbooks that align with their ethical values. Cookbooks that emphasize the compassionate treatment of animals and highlight the positive impact of plant-based choices resonate with a dedicated audience.

Top 15 Vegan Cookbooks: Our Guide

Now, with well over a decade of vegan cookbook exploration under our belts, we figured that now would be a good time to share our favorite new and old vegan cookbooks for those of you who want to move in a plant-based direction—or diversify your vegan recipe repertoire.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll present a curated list of the 15 best vegan cookbooks, ranked from the most accessible options for beginners to those with more involved steps or specialty ingredients.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegan chef or just beginning your plant-based journey, we’ve got something for everyone in our selection of the best vegan cookbooks!

The Friendly Vegan Cookbook (Best Introduction to Vegan Cooking)

Why We Love It: Vegan cookbooks tend to suffer from one major flaw: They aren’t accessible to a broad audience, especially new vegans.

They either don’t have many food photographs but hundreds of recipes, or require kitchen tools only a chef would have, or use ingredients that are hard to find anywhere but a specialty store. And that’s exactly why World of Vegan founder Michelle Cehn and Plant-Based on a Budget founder Toni Okamoto embarked on a mission to create the ultimate vegan cookbook. 

The Friendly Vegan Cookbook is for vegans who want a more intimate collection of straightforward, familiar recipes that you can make with everyday cooking tools. And most importantly, each recipe is good enough to share with even your most skeptical meat-loving friends and family.

The Friendly Vegan Cookbook contains vibrant food photography with every single recipe to get your mouth watering, plus tons of tips for cooking as a vegan, and BFFs Michelle and Toni infusing friendliness into every page eager to be your pals in the kitchen.  

Why You Need It:

• Want foolproof recipes good enough to share
• Want a single cookbook that covers all your main bases—breakfast, lunch, dinner, and key holiday recipes. 
• Want affordable recipes for virtually all skill levels

Our Favorite Recipe: We’ve gotta give it up for the Fettuccini Alfredo. We’ve made it dozens of times for dinner and for gatherings, and everyone who tries this dish loves it. 

Chloe’s Kitchen (Best Vegan Italian Cookbook)

Why We Love It: Chloe’s Kitchen is one of our favorite cookbooks of all time.

Between the gorgeous full-color food photography, you’ll find simple but delicious recipes for virtually any food category available, from fancier fare for parties and special events to weekday dinners and potlucks. Every recipe in the book was tested and re-tested until Chloe perfected each and every one, and that effort shines through. Her recipes are practically fool-proof, and every single one we made (and we worked our way through much of the cookbook) was phenomenal. 

With over 125 recipes, there’s something for every vegan (and the non-vegans in their lives!) to savor and enjoy.  

Why You Need It:

• Want vegan recipes using everyday ingredients
• Want vegan recipes that are simple and easy to make
• Want vegan recipes for different palates and regional cuisines
• Want recipes that even non-vegans would drool over

Our Favorite Recipe: The spinach artichoke dip is to die for—and it’s actually healthy so you can dive in guilt-free! 

Isa Does It (Best for People Who Love to Cook)

Isa Does It by Isa Chandra Moskowitz is a vegan cookbook that has carved its niche as a cherished classic in plant-based cuisine. What sets this one apart is Isa’s approach to crafting recipes that are both delicious and doable, even in the midst of a hectic life.

With a wide array of straightforward vegan recipes, Isa equips home cooks with the tools needed to prepare nutritious and flavorful dishes without the fuss. Additionally, the book offers a helpful guide on essential kitchen skills, making it an excellent choice for newcomers eager to learn all about plant-based cooking.

Whether you’re seeking a quick weeknight meal or planning a culinary endeavor, Isa Does It is a solid and fun cookbook to include on your shelf.

The Joy of Vegan Baking (Best Vegan Baking Book)

Why We Love It: Colleen Patrick-Goudreau, author of The Joy of Vegan Baking, taught us that it’s entirely possible to indulge our baking habit while still whipping up vegan, ethical, and cruelty-free treats.

With 150 cakes, puddings, pastries, cookies, and other baked goods to choose from, The Joy of Vegan Baking is the perfect go-to resource for baked treats for virtually any and all occasions—or even when you just want to satisfy your sweet tooth. This is one of the first, and most widely loved, vegan baking books that came out more than a decade ago. This is the 10-year anniversary edition.

Why You Need It:

• Don’t want to give up your baking habit when you go vegan
• Want vegan desserts that taste like their non-vegan originals
• Should be a staple in every vegan kitchen

Our Favorite Recipe: Her staple vegan chocolate chip cookies

Oh She Glows Every Day (Best Healthy Food Cookbook)

Oh She Glows Every Day is a fantastic addition to the list of the best vegan cookbooks out there. What makes this cookbook truly exceptional is its focus on quick and easy recipes that can seamlessly fit into your daily routine.

Angela’s emphasis on wholesome, plant-based ingredients ensures that you’re not just eating healthily but also enjoying every bite. If you are looking for fuss-free, delicious meals, this cookbook has you covered. Plus, Angela’s handy meal prep and time-saving tips are a game-changer, making healthy eating accessible and effortless.

PlantYou (Best for Making Cooking Easy for Beginners)

PlantYou by Carleigh Bodrug secures its spot among the best vegan cookbooks through its diverse and accessible vegan recipes. Carleigh’s approach to cruelty-free cuisine involves practicality and affordability, ensuring that you won’t have to hunt for rare ingredients.

What makes this cookbook a standout choice is Carleigh’s knack for infusing classic comfort food with a creative vegan twist. This cookbook is a perfect match for both seasoned vegans and newcomers to the plant-based culinary world, promising a delicious and stress-free cooking experience.

Plant-Based on a Budget (Best Budget Cookbook)

Why We Love It: Toni Okamoto’s Plant-Based on a Budget cookbook is by far the best book for budgeting on a plant-based lifestyle. This cookbook is chock full of the most versatile vegan recipes and are shared in a simple and straightforward way.

Toni knows what you need to go plant based without spending a fortune and she shares all of her hard-earned knowledge with you. Her recipes are not only visually appealing in every way, but they’re so super-delicious that you won’t believe how inexpensive and simple they really are. If you’re ready to go one step further into your vegan journey, this is a MUST have for your collection. It will become your most reliable resource and trusted cooking companion.

Why You Need It:

• The tone of the book is so friendly and familiar—it’s like reading a letter from a friend who’s encouraging you in your cooking with a frank and loving manner.
• The layout is fantastic with beautiful photos, smiling faces, bright open pages and easy to read text with all of the steps and ingredients listed in order.
• Toni’s Tips and Tester’s Tips—these sections are a favorite because both the author and the recipe testers added great ideas and insights on how to tweak the recipe to make it your own. She even adds a section for your own tips! So perfect.
• Just the introduction itself is worth the price of this book! The sections on “How to Save Money” and “How to Save Time” on a plant based diet are phenomenal! And the “Back to Basics” section at the back of the book is invaluable for simple, everyday pantry staples. 

Our Favorite Recipe: It’s a serious tie between the Sweet Potato Tacos and the Peanut Butter Ramen Stir Fry. We could literally eat both of these every day and never get sick of them! 

Fast Easy Cheap Vegan (Best for Easy Vegan Meals)

Fast Easy Cheap Vegan by Sam Turnbull is a standout gem among vegan cookbooks that caters to your taste buds and your budget. What sets this cookbook apart is its unwavering commitment to making vegan cooking accessible without compromising on flavor.

Sam’s recipes are ones you can whip up without breaking the bank or spending hours in the kitchen. The book is brimming with creative, cost-effective dishes that even novice cooks can confidently tackle. With a focus on affordability and simplicity, Fast Easy Cheap Vegan is your perfect go-to resource for satisfying vegan meals!

The Vegan Instant Pot Cookbook (Best Instant Pot Cookbook)

The Vegan Instant Pot Cookbook by Nisha Vora is a kitchen essential for anyone seeking quick, delicious, and plant-based meals. What sets this cookbook apart is its focus on harnessing the power of the Instant Pot for vegan cooking, making it a must-have for busy individuals.

Nisha’s innovative approach shines through her diverse range of recipes, from hearty stews to mouthwatering desserts, all prepared in a fraction of the time it would take with traditional cooking methods. This cookbook caters not only to vegans but also welcomes anyone curious to explore the versatility of the Instant Pot.

With Nisha’s clear, user-friendly instructions, you can confidently dive into the world of hassle-free, plant-based cooking, enjoying flavorful dishes without the wait. Whether you’re an Instant Pot novice or a seasoned pro, The Vegan Instant Pot Cookbook is your ultimate companion for mastering this appliance and savoring delectable vegan creations in a flash.

Cooking from the Spirit (Best for Tabitha Brown Fans)

This cookbook is authored by the beloved Tabitha Brown, a renowned vegan chef and cultural icon. In this transformative cookbook, Tabitha invites readers on a delicious journey that transcends mere recipes; it’s a heartfelt exploration of soul-nourishing, plant-based cooking that feeds both the body and the spirit. With her signature warmth and infectious enthusiasm, Tabitha shares her secrets to creating meals that are not only nourishing but also deeply satisfying to the soul.

Drawing from her own personal journey towards health and happiness, she presents a collection of mouthwatering recipes that celebrate the power of mindful eating and the joy of savoring each bite. From hearty and wholesome breakfasts to delectable dinners and indulgent desserts, “Cooking from the Spirit” offers a diverse array of plant-based dishes that are easy to prepare and impossible to resist.

Hot For Food: Vegan Comfort Classics (Best Comfort Food Cookbook)

Why We Love It: We don’t reach for Hot for Food when we want something overtly healthy.

We reach for Hot for Food when we’re feeling nostalgic, want to cuddle up with our favorite comfort foods, or simply want to indulge our cravings. Fortunately for us, YouTube sensation Lauren Toyota has put together an awesome collection of sinfully delicious meals that also happen to be vegan.

From crispy crabless crabcakes to green pea pesto linguine, Hot for Food is the perfect go-to when you’re looking for a vegan version of your favorite non-vegan meals—or to discover new ones.

Why You Need It:

• Don’t want to give up your favorite comfort foods as you go vegan
• Want a variety of meals to choose from as you transition to a vegan diet
• Want recipes that are indulgent but easy to make

Our Favorite Recipe: Philly cheese steak sandwich

Vegan Asian: A Cookbook (Best Vegan Asian Cookbook)

Vegan Asian by Jeeca Uy offers a fantastic array of plant-based Asian dishes. What makes this cookbook distinctive is its skillful blend of traditional Asian flavors with a cruelty-free twist, offering a fresh experience for vegans and food enthusiasts alike.

From satisfying ramen bowls to delicious dim sum, Jeeca’s recipes are approachable and perfect for both newcomers to vegan cooking and those eager to experience the diverse world of Asian tastes. With user-friendly instructions and a welcoming tone, this cookbook provides a bridge to recreate beloved dishes while staying true to the principles of a plant-based diet. Vegan Asian serves as an open invitation to savor the vibrant flavors of Asia through a compassionate culinary lens.

Plantcakes: Fancy and Everyday Vegan Cakes for Everyone (Best Cookbook for Artistic Bakers and Cake Lovers)

Plantcakes by Lyndsay Sung is a treasure trove for anyone with a sweet tooth, showing that vegan desserts can be just as satisfying and indulgent as their non-vegan counterparts. What distinguishes this cookbook is Lyndsay’s expertise in creating plant-based cakes that are every bit as heavenly. With innovative recipes spanning from rich chocolate creations to delightful fruity treats, Plantcakes ensures that you can enjoy the pleasures of cakes while following a vegan lifestyle.

Lyndsay’s straightforward instructions and engaging style make baking accessible, even for those new to plant-based desserts. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a slice of cake, Plantcakes is your go-to resource for crafting plant-based desserts that are both fun and delicious!

The Edgy Veg (Best for Die-Hard Meat Lovers)

The Edgy Veg by Candice Hutchings is a vegan cookbook that elevates culinary innovation to new heights while maintaining a playful and approachable tone. Candice’s daring approach to reimagining classic comfort foods with a vegan twist is truly remarkable. From mouthwatering vegan versions of fast-food favorites to imaginative plant-based takes on traditional dishes, this cookbook offers a unique perspective on vegan cooking.

Candice’s straightforward instructions and vibrant personality shine through in each recipe, making her recipes accessible to vegans and non-vegans alike. The book also features a variety of recipes for homemade plant-based cheeses, sauces, and more, equipping you with the tools to enhance your vegan culinary skills.

The Homemade Vegan Pantry (Best Cookbook for Eco-Conscious Cooks and Homesteaders)

The Homemade Vegan Pantry by Miyoko Schinner is an essential addition to any vegan kitchen. This cookbook offers a unique twist by focusing on creating homemade vegan staples. Miyoko empowers home cooks to prepare their own dairy-free cheeses, plant-based meats, and other pantry essentials, setting it apart from conventional vegan cookbooks.

Her approach not only provides better control over the ingredients but also adds a personal touch to your meals. The book is a handy resource for those looking to reduce reliance on store-bought vegan products and explore the rewarding realm of DIY vegan pantry staples. With Miyoko’s guidance and friendly recipes, you will be empowered to create your own vegan staples from scratch.

While we had to exclude a lot of awesome vegan cookbooks from this list, we hope that these top 15 vegan cookbooks have inspired you to get cooking! Also, check out our list of favorite Plant-Based Diet Books! What are your favorites?