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Baking in the American South: 200 Recipes and Their Untold Stories (A Definitive Cookbook Guide to Southern Baking) – Perfect for Bakers, Chefs, and Foodies
Witness the rise of Southern baking from the humble, make-do recipes of our ancestors to its place as one of the world's richest culinary traditions through this essential cookbook from bestselling author Anne Byrn. With 200 recipes and more than 150 photos from 14 states, Baking in the American South has the biscuits, cornbread, cakes, and rolls that will help you bake like a Southerner, even if you aren't.
Recipes can tell you volumes if you pay attention—the crops raised, languages spoken, family customs, old world flavors, and, often, religion. Did you know that where a mill was located affected the recipes handed down from that area? Or that baking and selling pound cakes directly impacted the Civil Rights Movement? These stories and recipes, developed from good times and bad, have been collected and perfected over years and are now accessible to us all. Anne's expertise in assessing, modernizing, and developing well-written recipes makes this the definitive guide for bakers of all levels.
From-scratch, Southern classic recipes
Thomasville Cheese BiscuitsOuita Michel's Sweet Potato Streusel MuffinsNina Cain's Batty Cakes with Lacy EdgesThe Best Lemon Meringue PieGeorgia Gilmore's Pound Cake
This fascinating dive into the history of 14 southern states—Texas, Florida, Kentucky, and more—features stories and beautifully photographed recipes from pre-Civil War times to today's Southern kitchens. It's about the places, the people, the products and the culture of the moment that influenced what people baked. It's about African-American women and the monumental contributions they have made to the art of Southern baking, about home cooks and how they've kept traditions alive wherever they settle by baking family recipes each year for holidays and celebrations, and about the pastry chefs who have thoughtfully reimagined how the South bakes.
Experience the recipes and the stories behind them that showcase the substantial contributions Southern baking has made to American baking at large. Food historians, bakers, foodies, and cookbook collectors from every corner of the country will want this cookbook in their collections.
Recipes can tell you volumes if you pay attention—the crops raised, languages spoken, family customs, old world flavors, and, often, religion. Did you know that where a mill was located affected the recipes handed down from that area? Or that baking and selling pound cakes directly impacted the Civil Rights Movement? These stories and recipes, developed from good times and bad, have been collected and perfected over years and are now accessible to us all. Anne's expertise in assessing, modernizing, and developing well-written recipes makes this the definitive guide for bakers of all levels.
From-scratch, Southern classic recipes
Thomasville Cheese BiscuitsOuita Michel's Sweet Potato Streusel MuffinsNina Cain's Batty Cakes with Lacy EdgesThe Best Lemon Meringue PieGeorgia Gilmore's Pound Cake
This fascinating dive into the history of 14 southern states—Texas, Florida, Kentucky, and more—features stories and beautifully photographed recipes from pre-Civil War times to today's Southern kitchens. It's about the places, the people, the products and the culture of the moment that influenced what people baked. It's about African-American women and the monumental contributions they have made to the art of Southern baking, about home cooks and how they've kept traditions alive wherever they settle by baking family recipes each year for holidays and celebrations, and about the pastry chefs who have thoughtfully reimagined how the South bakes.
Experience the recipes and the stories behind them that showcase the substantial contributions Southern baking has made to American baking at large. Food historians, bakers, foodies, and cookbook collectors from every corner of the country will want this cookbook in their collections.
512 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 3, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
May 31, 2025
This is a heavy cookbook, I didn't weigh it but at 486 pages it is definitely a book you need to set on something while reading. Focused on Southern American baking, each of the 200 well-written recipes are prefaced with a story of it's provenance. There are pictures of many, but not all the finished dishes. Also sprinkled throughout the book are stories that provide some historical context of the foods, people and events that impacted the South.
The first 100 pages are devoted to just cornbread and biscuits, it is amazing just how many versions of these 2 foods exist! My guess is any baked Southern dish you can think of, it is in here. Hummingbird Cake, check. Chess Pie, check. Peach Cobbler, Tomato Pie, double check. You get the point.
It was nice to see the bibliography supporting the historical information presented as well as the source acknowledgements for the recipes. Bakers seeking authentic baking recipes from 14 of the Southern States or anyone who loves to know the story behind the dish will enjoy this book
Baking nerds will also appreciate the conversion info for old-timey baking measurements and cooking temperatures. Having delved into ye olde cookbooks, I did wonder exactly how much flour is in a teacup of flour and what the heck is a quick oven (1/2 cup and 400 F, so now we all know!).
The first 100 pages are devoted to just cornbread and biscuits, it is amazing just how many versions of these 2 foods exist! My guess is any baked Southern dish you can think of, it is in here. Hummingbird Cake, check. Chess Pie, check. Peach Cobbler, Tomato Pie, double check. You get the point.
It was nice to see the bibliography supporting the historical information presented as well as the source acknowledgements for the recipes. Bakers seeking authentic baking recipes from 14 of the Southern States or anyone who loves to know the story behind the dish will enjoy this book
Baking nerds will also appreciate the conversion info for old-timey baking measurements and cooking temperatures. Having delved into ye olde cookbooks, I did wonder exactly how much flour is in a teacup of flour and what the heck is a quick oven (1/2 cup and 400 F, so now we all know!).
September 2, 2024
Any cookbook that begins with almost 100 pages of historical cornbread recipes is aimed directly at with this Georgia girl’s heart, soul and gastronomic spirit in mind, and that is exactly what Anne Byrn’s extraordinary “Baking in the American South: 200 Recipes and Their Untold Stories” does magnificently.
With marvelous full-color photographs throughout by Rinne Allen, this treasure of historical Southern foods included reprinted handwritten vintage recipes, historical anecdotes about many of the unique dishes, as well as photos and stories about many of inventors and their origins.
You will also learn about modern conversions from their historical predecessors, such as “a pinch of salt” or baking in a “fast oven.” This is in addition to so many classic Southern recipes for biscuits, breads, cookies, cakes, and pies.
JoyReaderGirl1 graciously thanks NetGalley, Author Anne Byrn, and Publisher Harper Celebrate for this advanced reader’s copy for review.
With marvelous full-color photographs throughout by Rinne Allen, this treasure of historical Southern foods included reprinted handwritten vintage recipes, historical anecdotes about many of the unique dishes, as well as photos and stories about many of inventors and their origins.
You will also learn about modern conversions from their historical predecessors, such as “a pinch of salt” or baking in a “fast oven.” This is in addition to so many classic Southern recipes for biscuits, breads, cookies, cakes, and pies.
JoyReaderGirl1 graciously thanks NetGalley, Author Anne Byrn, and Publisher Harper Celebrate for this advanced reader’s copy for review.
November 2, 2024
This cookbook is all about Southern baking. After and introduction and chapter on the author's baking pantry staples, the book is divided into chapters about specific types of Southern baking. You can't go wrong in my opinion when the first chapter is all about cornbread and the second is all about biscuits! There are other chapters on quick breads, rolls and yeast-raised cakes, puddings, pies, cakes, cookies, and frostings. Each chapter includes an introduction to that type of baked good and throughout the chapter there are other notes and tips. I was REALLY impressed with how thorough this cookbook is. Anne Byrn really did her homework here and showcases LOTS of classic recipes and variations in each chapter. There were lots of recipes I'd like to try and this is one I would consider purchasing because there is just so much great information and recipes here.
October 22, 2024
Gorgeous cookbook. Beautiful color slides and delicious recipes with a little write up on the history of each one as well as lots of interesting historical information on Southern baking.
February 17, 2025
Beautiful book, with amazing histories and recipes from iconic southern bakers.
May 10, 2024
My mom and I love finding the perfect new cookbook and this was it! As a family from the southern Appalachian mountains this book about recipes and history from the south was perfect for us. I absolutely loved the history in the book. From things I grew up with and love even now, like learning about Minnie Pear and Lester Flatt and Earl Scruggs. The wonderful recipes go hand-in-hand with the history and love of the South. The recipes show how life and history shape them and evolve them through the years. The book has 200 recipes and you will want to taste and try all of them. I sure found some new favorites like Peach Pound Cake and Thomasville Cheese Biscuits. You're sure to find your own new family favorites too. A book worth sharing to anyone who loves cooking and history. We are so thankful to have received the ebook ARC and will be rushing to add it to our home library. It makes a great gift too.
August 24, 2024
Book Review: Baking in the American South by Anne Byrn
Rating: ★★★★☆
As someone who has always been fascinated by the rich tapestry of Southern culture in the US, I was excited to dive into Baking in the American South: 200 Recipes and Their Untold Stories by Anne Byrn. What I found was not just a cookbook, but an enthralling journey through the history of Southern baking that left me both educated and inspired.
The book takes us on a culinary expedition across 14 Southern states, showcasing 200 recipes that reflect the evolution of baking in the region—from simple make-do recipes passed down through generations to cherished classics that have become staples in Southern kitchens. Byrn brilliantly weaves together narratives that highlight how geography, history, and culture have shaped the dishes we know and love today. Did you know that the location of mills influenced local recipes? Or that pound cakes played a crucial role in the Civil Rights Movement? These fascinating insights add depth to each recipe and make it clear that there’s a story behind every bite.
I absolutely loved the history interspersed throughout the book. Each recipe is accompanied by an introduction to notable Southern cooks, bakers, and personalities, making it clear that this isn’t just a collection of dishes but a tribute to the people who brought them to life. Byrn's asides provide historical and geographical perspectives that are genuinely interesting to read. The photos are not only eye-catching but also elevates this book, making it perfect for setting out on any table for guests to flip through.
Among the standout recipes are Thomasville Cheese Biscuits, Ouita Michel's Sweet Potato Streusel Muffins, and Georgia Gilmore's Pound Cake. Each dish is well-written and accessible, making it easy for everyone—from novice bakers to seasoned pros—to whip up some Southern delights in their own kitchens.
In conclusion, Baking in the American South is a brilliant mix of culinary art and storytelling. It’s clear that this author has created an essential guide for anyone interested in Southern baking. This book is not just about food; it's a celebration of Southern heritage and the women (and men) who have preserved it through baking. Whether you're looking for a new recipe to try or just want to learn more about Southern history, this book is definitely worth picking up!
⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️
Rating: ★★★★☆
As someone who has always been fascinated by the rich tapestry of Southern culture in the US, I was excited to dive into Baking in the American South: 200 Recipes and Their Untold Stories by Anne Byrn. What I found was not just a cookbook, but an enthralling journey through the history of Southern baking that left me both educated and inspired.
The book takes us on a culinary expedition across 14 Southern states, showcasing 200 recipes that reflect the evolution of baking in the region—from simple make-do recipes passed down through generations to cherished classics that have become staples in Southern kitchens. Byrn brilliantly weaves together narratives that highlight how geography, history, and culture have shaped the dishes we know and love today. Did you know that the location of mills influenced local recipes? Or that pound cakes played a crucial role in the Civil Rights Movement? These fascinating insights add depth to each recipe and make it clear that there’s a story behind every bite.
I absolutely loved the history interspersed throughout the book. Each recipe is accompanied by an introduction to notable Southern cooks, bakers, and personalities, making it clear that this isn’t just a collection of dishes but a tribute to the people who brought them to life. Byrn's asides provide historical and geographical perspectives that are genuinely interesting to read. The photos are not only eye-catching but also elevates this book, making it perfect for setting out on any table for guests to flip through.
Among the standout recipes are Thomasville Cheese Biscuits, Ouita Michel's Sweet Potato Streusel Muffins, and Georgia Gilmore's Pound Cake. Each dish is well-written and accessible, making it easy for everyone—from novice bakers to seasoned pros—to whip up some Southern delights in their own kitchens.
In conclusion, Baking in the American South is a brilliant mix of culinary art and storytelling. It’s clear that this author has created an essential guide for anyone interested in Southern baking. This book is not just about food; it's a celebration of Southern heritage and the women (and men) who have preserved it through baking. Whether you're looking for a new recipe to try or just want to learn more about Southern history, this book is definitely worth picking up!
⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️
May 28, 2024
These days a cookbook has to bring more to the table than just recipes and Baking in the American South delivers a buffet. Part cookbook, but also a book filled with history, anthropology, and eye-catching photos, this tome collects recipes from a veritable who's who of southern cooks, bakers, and personalities with an introduction to each of them. The asides that provide a historical or geographical perspective were interesting to read and the photos made it a coffee-table-worthy compendium. The chapters included were an Introduction and explanation of pantry basics, "Sizzling Cornbread", "Hot Biscuits", "Quick Loaves, Griddle Cakes, Waffles, and Fritters", "Rolls, Breads, and Yeast-Raised Cakes", "Comfort Puddings", "Pies Plain and Fancy", "Bake Me a Cake", "Cookies and Bars by the Dozen", and "Frostings and Flourishes". I'm sure that some people may wonder why there is a chapter on corn bread alone, but to me that makes it a true southern baking book, because there are many varied kinds of corn bread and you need to do justice to the staple with more than just one recipe buried in a chapter of quick breads, and the same goes for biscuits. Recipes are well organized, clearly blocking prep and cook times, serving size, ingredients, and detailed instructions. Reading through and looking at the pictures accompanying many recipes left my mouth watering and I can't wait to try a number of them and sharing them with friends.
I received advanced access to this book thru NetGalley (for which I want to thank NetGalley and the publisher, Harper Celebrate) for an honest review. The opinion expressed here is my own.
I received advanced access to this book thru NetGalley (for which I want to thank NetGalley and the publisher, Harper Celebrate) for an honest review. The opinion expressed here is my own.
September 4, 2024
Oh.my.goodness! I think we all know that I love reading cookbooks, from any area and any age--but this one combines history and photography with the recipes so beautifully that it is easily a new favorite! The sheer number of pages dedicated to cornbread, biscuits, and breads alone (hundreds!) is both a straight way to this carb-lover's heart, and a fascinating bunch of tidbits on the topics such as the history and evolutions of flours in the American South. Was I looking up brands and types I'd never heard of? Sure was. Was this baking and history geek SO happy? SURE WAS.
Other notes of appreciation:
*The nuanced points about enslaved persons and what they brought with them from their homelands and how baking certain dishes evoked/might evoke mixed or negative feelings
*Learning of the history of pound cake in the Civil Rights Movement
*Nostalgic glimpses of history, without being completely sugarcoated
*The conversions and bits of southern measurements--made me smile and remember days spent in my (Midwestern) grandmother's kitchen where I learned to cook and bake by similar "measurements" and now frustrate my own friends and family with my "recipe notes"
*The inclusion of tomato gravy recipes (Okay, this "appreciation" is based upon my husband's love of the stuff + how much I'm always missing his wonderful grandmother)
*Beautiful photography, with the past mixed with the contemporary
Have I purchased this title for my own cookbook library? SURE HAVE! :) Buy your copy noooooow!
My thanks to NetGalley and Harper Celebrate Publishing for the chance to preview this title in exchange for my honest opinion.
Other notes of appreciation:
*The nuanced points about enslaved persons and what they brought with them from their homelands and how baking certain dishes evoked/might evoke mixed or negative feelings
*Learning of the history of pound cake in the Civil Rights Movement
*Nostalgic glimpses of history, without being completely sugarcoated
*The conversions and bits of southern measurements--made me smile and remember days spent in my (Midwestern) grandmother's kitchen where I learned to cook and bake by similar "measurements" and now frustrate my own friends and family with my "recipe notes"
*The inclusion of tomato gravy recipes (Okay, this "appreciation" is based upon my husband's love of the stuff + how much I'm always missing his wonderful grandmother)
*Beautiful photography, with the past mixed with the contemporary
Have I purchased this title for my own cookbook library? SURE HAVE! :) Buy your copy noooooow!
My thanks to NetGalley and Harper Celebrate Publishing for the chance to preview this title in exchange for my honest opinion.
September 5, 2024
I received an eARC of this book from NetGalley and the publisher, for which I thank them.
“Baking in the American South” is a recipe and history book by Anne Bryn. If Ms. Bryn’s name sounds familiar, it’s because she did the “Cake Doctor” cookbook series many years ago (books I still refer to all these years later). In this book, there’s a lot of history - both of the individual recipes, but also of the different sections. For instance, there are a lot of cornbread recipes - some are standard cornbread in a cast iron skillet, but other cornbreads are pancake-like and still others in muffin form. Why the differences? Ms. Bryn explains all. I knew that there were numerous biscuit recipes (cat’s head, drop, flake), but seeing a number of them in this book makes me truly appreciate the humble biscuit and its fantastic history. There’s also recipes for cakes - amusingly I believe only one for my favorite “Southern” cake (Hummingbird), but, well, maybe it’s a pretty standard recipe. I will admit to not having time to actually make any of the recipes before writing up this review (the book was released a few days ago), but from a quick glance over the recipes and directions, they seemed pretty sound. If that’s not the case, I’ll update this review. You don’t have to be Southern to enjoy these recipes, but if you are, some of these recipes may put a smile on your face as you wander down memory lane.
“Baking in the American South” is a recipe and history book by Anne Bryn. If Ms. Bryn’s name sounds familiar, it’s because she did the “Cake Doctor” cookbook series many years ago (books I still refer to all these years later). In this book, there’s a lot of history - both of the individual recipes, but also of the different sections. For instance, there are a lot of cornbread recipes - some are standard cornbread in a cast iron skillet, but other cornbreads are pancake-like and still others in muffin form. Why the differences? Ms. Bryn explains all. I knew that there were numerous biscuit recipes (cat’s head, drop, flake), but seeing a number of them in this book makes me truly appreciate the humble biscuit and its fantastic history. There’s also recipes for cakes - amusingly I believe only one for my favorite “Southern” cake (Hummingbird), but, well, maybe it’s a pretty standard recipe. I will admit to not having time to actually make any of the recipes before writing up this review (the book was released a few days ago), but from a quick glance over the recipes and directions, they seemed pretty sound. If that’s not the case, I’ll update this review. You don’t have to be Southern to enjoy these recipes, but if you are, some of these recipes may put a smile on your face as you wander down memory lane.
Read
August 29, 2025I often read new cookbooks like a novel, looking for new ideas and techniques. Baking in the American South may be the best cookbook I have ever read. First, of course, the recipes are great. Most come from home cooks, recipes handed down from grandmother to mother to the current generation, and using techniques and simple strategies you never read in recipes developed by professional chefs. These recipes are definately from the heart and wonderful.
What really captured me was the stories accompanying each recipes. Stories of everyday women, describing their lives and efforts. The history of food in the South from the 1700's to now. Recipes from slaves and ex-slaves cooking in the "big house", widows and moms making extra money to support the family, church moms selling food after services and at church fetes, or in the hair salon. I could not stop reading the stories. This cookbook, besides giving us some wonderful recipes to prepare for our own families and friends, gives us a view into the struggles and successes of women in America, how we cared for our families in the most fundamental and intimate way- by feeding them.
What really captured me was the stories accompanying each recipes. Stories of everyday women, describing their lives and efforts. The history of food in the South from the 1700's to now. Recipes from slaves and ex-slaves cooking in the "big house", widows and moms making extra money to support the family, church moms selling food after services and at church fetes, or in the hair salon. I could not stop reading the stories. This cookbook, besides giving us some wonderful recipes to prepare for our own families and friends, gives us a view into the struggles and successes of women in America, how we cared for our families in the most fundamental and intimate way- by feeding them.
July 17, 2024
Baking in the American South by Anne Byrn is an inspiring compilation of recipes that instantly made me eager to get into the kitchen. From the moment I opened its pages, I was captivated by the creativity and versatility of the dishes presented.
What truly sets this book apart is the depth and detail with which Byrn explores the world of Southern Baking. The accompanying stories and notes provide extra context and confidence, making it easier to tackle the recipes.
The book's layout is both aesthetically pleasing and user-friendly, allowing for easy navigation and seamless execution of the recipes. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a novice, the instructions are clear and concise, making baking a joy.
I am excited to share these gourmet delights with my loved ones and am confident that this cookbook will become a cherished addition to my kitchen library, a source of shared joy and delicious meals.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Celebrate for generously providing me with an e-book copy of Baking in the American South in exchange for an honest review.
What truly sets this book apart is the depth and detail with which Byrn explores the world of Southern Baking. The accompanying stories and notes provide extra context and confidence, making it easier to tackle the recipes.
The book's layout is both aesthetically pleasing and user-friendly, allowing for easy navigation and seamless execution of the recipes. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a novice, the instructions are clear and concise, making baking a joy.
I am excited to share these gourmet delights with my loved ones and am confident that this cookbook will become a cherished addition to my kitchen library, a source of shared joy and delicious meals.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Celebrate for generously providing me with an e-book copy of Baking in the American South in exchange for an honest review.
September 3, 2024
There aren't many cookbooks about which I can say this, but this book is amazing! It's more than a simple cookbook. The history, the photographs and the CORNBREAD AND BISCUITS!! Who knew there were so many?! As soon as I dove into this hefty volume I knew I needed a copy. The research that was done to create this book is extensive, every page is a pleasure to read. I own a lot of cookbooks and I have been baking, especially bread, since I was in elementary school, and I am proud to have this volume on my shelf. And not just breads and cakes are included, as I had assumed - puddings and pies are here as well. There is literally something for everyone. I know, I'm going on and on....and on about this book, but this is an exciting addition to my personal library and I will say that you can't go wrong with this cookbook.
My ARC was provided by the Harper Celebrate and NetGalley, the opinions expressed herein are strictly my own.
My ARC was provided by the Harper Celebrate and NetGalley, the opinions expressed herein are strictly my own.
June 14, 2024
This book contains really interesting stories and history, it is beautifully presented and photographed. The introduction and throughout addresses relevant issues like race and class. As an Australian I very much appreciated that the recipes were in grams, as well as cups and weird American measurements (12 sticks of butter, anyone?)
As I am wont to do, I wanted to cook from this book, as well as review the way it looks. My parents were coming for dinner, and we always finish our meals with either a pudding or a cake, so I made the Maryland Jewish Apple cake, which went down very well!
Overall I would recommend this book, both as a cookbook and for those who have an interest in the cooking and culture of the American South.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for an e-Arc in exchange for an honest review.
As I am wont to do, I wanted to cook from this book, as well as review the way it looks. My parents were coming for dinner, and we always finish our meals with either a pudding or a cake, so I made the Maryland Jewish Apple cake, which went down very well!
Overall I would recommend this book, both as a cookbook and for those who have an interest in the cooking and culture of the American South.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for an e-Arc in exchange for an honest review.
June 15, 2024
Baking in the American South by Anne Byrn is a cookbook that I can not wait to have in my cookbook collection. This is so much more than a regular cookbook because it gives the history and story behind the recipes.
The recipes are so varied, yet all connected by the history behind them. The photos of the food are wonderful. When I saw the photos of so many of them, I was so eager to get my ingredients out and make the recipe.
This book is one that will be in many cooks’ collections. This will be a great gift for me to give to all my family and friends who love to cook and enjoy the history behind what they are making.
Thank you NetGalley, Anne Byrn and Harper Celebrate for the ARC of Baking in the American South. This is my personal review.
The recipes are so varied, yet all connected by the history behind them. The photos of the food are wonderful. When I saw the photos of so many of them, I was so eager to get my ingredients out and make the recipe.
This book is one that will be in many cooks’ collections. This will be a great gift for me to give to all my family and friends who love to cook and enjoy the history behind what they are making.
Thank you NetGalley, Anne Byrn and Harper Celebrate for the ARC of Baking in the American South. This is my personal review.
August 27, 2024
Did I realize that there were so many cornbread varieties out there? No, I did not. The things you’ll learn in this book! This is part cookbook, part study on women and their roles in the family in the historical US south. Each recipe has a mini biography or story attached to it, with notes on ingredients or techniques involved. Besides the many cornbread recipes, there are cakes, squares, cookies, and other treat recipes that have been passed down from older generations, with notes and substitutions made as our baking tools and ingredients have changed. A really nice book with pictures of the recipes, and the women they came from.
I received a free ebook from NetGalley in exchange for a fair review.
I received a free ebook from NetGalley in exchange for a fair review.
November 11, 2024
This cookbook is absolutely darling! I love all of the explanations before the main chapters and throughout. I also was not expecting this to have so many savory recipes, so that tickled my fancy! I love good Southern food, and this really seems to allow me to bring authentic Southern food up north. All the recipes seem very approachable and use everyday ingredients, but they may require a little bit of knowledge to create. This is by no means a beginner's cookbook.
I had no idea about the variations of cornbread or biscuits. I also loved that there was a popover recipe!
The history poured into this book, along with the well-researched recipes and beautiful photos, really make this cookbook a knockout! I can't wait to dig in more!
I had no idea about the variations of cornbread or biscuits. I also loved that there was a popover recipe!
The history poured into this book, along with the well-researched recipes and beautiful photos, really make this cookbook a knockout! I can't wait to dig in more!
January 8, 2025
The description of Byrn’s Baking in the American South enticed me- then I opened the book. Then, I was absolutely SOLD. This is not just a cookbook- it is an homage and a journey through the history of the foods that make Southern food special. This beautifully researched and lovingly put together book is truly a treasure. I found myself amazed at the contributions those before me had done to perfect the humble pan of cornbread or biscuit.
The recipes I completed were met with kudos and requests for more.
Though this was an ARC, this will be one I will happily buy for my permanent collection. Many thanks to NetGalley and Harper Celebrate for the advance copy. All opinions are my own.
The recipes I completed were met with kudos and requests for more.
Though this was an ARC, this will be one I will happily buy for my permanent collection. Many thanks to NetGalley and Harper Celebrate for the advance copy. All opinions are my own.
June 29, 2025
This is a gem of a book. Whether you are from the south or some other region of the country you will enjoy this book. This book takes recipes from the home baker all the way to the most renown chefs. I personally love the colored phots of the recipes. We eat with our eyes first and If I can see a picture of the dish I am more likely to make it. Oh and there are yummy recipes in this book and stories to go along with some of them. There are historic recipes as will as current ones. There's something for everyone. The stories are worth buying the book itself, the recipes are a nice bonus. These will become family favorites in no time.
September 16, 2026
★★★★★
Baking in the American South is a wonderful celebration of Southern baking, combining comforting recipes with the stories and traditions behind them. I loved how the book captures the warmth, history, and character of Southern food while still offering plenty of inspiration for the modern kitchen. The variety of recipes makes it enjoyable to browse, and the storytelling adds an extra layer that makes each bake feel meaningful. A beautifully presented cookbook for anyone who loves baking, regional food traditions, and recipes with a sense of place. Absolutely deserving of five stars!
Baking in the American South is a wonderful celebration of Southern baking, combining comforting recipes with the stories and traditions behind them. I loved how the book captures the warmth, history, and character of Southern food while still offering plenty of inspiration for the modern kitchen. The variety of recipes makes it enjoyable to browse, and the storytelling adds an extra layer that makes each bake feel meaningful. A beautifully presented cookbook for anyone who loves baking, regional food traditions, and recipes with a sense of place. Absolutely deserving of five stars!
March 16, 2024
Baking in the American South by Anne Byrn is a delicious journey into the heart of Southern baking, tracing its evolution from simple, resourceful recipes to a rich culinary tradition. Through 200 recipes and over 150 photos, this cookbook captures the essence of Southern baking that embody the region's flavors and history. What sets this cookbook apart is its storytelling. The author weaves tales of the past with each recipe, revealing how geography, culture, and even politics have influenced Southern baking.
March 22, 2024
A delicious look at baking in 14 of the Southern states. With stories, recipes and lovely photographs, this was a joy to read.
Being someone from two of those states, I can say these are the best the south has to offer.
From before the Civil War to today’s Southern cooks, this book brings up so many good memories of food, family and friends.
Whether a family reunion, Sunday dinner, or a funeral, you will find something yummy in the pages of this book.
This one is definitely a keeper.
NetGalley/ Harper Celebrate September 03, 2024
Being someone from two of those states, I can say these are the best the south has to offer.
From before the Civil War to today’s Southern cooks, this book brings up so many good memories of food, family and friends.
Whether a family reunion, Sunday dinner, or a funeral, you will find something yummy in the pages of this book.
This one is definitely a keeper.
NetGalley/ Harper Celebrate September 03, 2024
September 6, 2024
Baking in the American South combines an academic history lesson, the best of church bake sales and cookbooks with a large part of cooking at your grandmothers elbow, the sheer amount of corn bread recipes is testament to this. But the book os better for it, it is a tome and if there is a recipe you tasted once and want to recreate this is thr book to help you do it!!
It is warm and interesting and, from what I tested delicious, although I have barely made a dent in the cornbread recipes to date!
It is warm and interesting and, from what I tested delicious, although I have barely made a dent in the cornbread recipes to date!
November 5, 2024
This is a fantastic cookbook! The recipes are unique and every recipe in this has a story behind it which is refreshing. There are recipes for cornbread, biscuits, breads, waffles,fritters,cakes,puddings,pies,tarts,cookies,
bars,frostings,sauces and glazes. The photos throughout are wonderful. If you're a fan of Southern food or are interested in trying it, then I think this is a great cookbook for you! Special Thank You to Anne Byrn,Harper Celebrate and NetGalley for allowing me to read a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
bars,frostings,sauces and glazes. The photos throughout are wonderful. If you're a fan of Southern food or are interested in trying it, then I think this is a great cookbook for you! Special Thank You to Anne Byrn,Harper Celebrate and NetGalley for allowing me to read a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
April 27, 2025
It was a bit odd reading a cookbook but the stories behind the recipes are fascinating. I also enjoyed learning the many tips that are shared in this cook. Who knew that you can make buttermilk by adding vinegar to whole milk? Since many of the recipes that I can’t wait to bake, call for buttermilk, I’m sure I will be using this tip. As a Marylander, I was thrilled to see recipes for Berger’s cookies and Smith Island cake. German chocolate cake and Key Lime Pie are also favorites in my family. Great addition to my cookbooks!
September 5, 2024
Baking in the American South by Anne Byrn is a great resource to help you get started. This cookbook has 200 recipes that include breads, griddle cakes, muffins, puddings, cakes, cookies, pies, and a recipe for the famous Dollywood cinnamon bread! The photos will make your mouth water! Each recipe includes a quote or the history behind the recipe. Can’t wait to get baking my favorite southern foods!
Thank you NetGalley and Harper Celebrate for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
Thank you NetGalley and Harper Celebrate for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
April 19, 2026
A beautiful and deeply thoughtful Southern baking cookbook filled with history, tradition, and incredible recipes. The cornbread and biscuit sections alone are worth it!
I loved the vintage recipes, stories, and helpful tips throughout. This is more than a cookbook—it’s a true celebration of Southern baking.
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Thank you NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
I loved the vintage recipes, stories, and helpful tips throughout. This is more than a cookbook—it’s a true celebration of Southern baking.
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Thank you NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
September 21, 2026
Baking in the American South is a wonderful celebration of Southern baking and the stories behind it. I really enjoyed how the recipes are paired with history and personal stories, giving the book much more character than a typical cookbook.
The collection offers plenty of comforting classics as well as recipes that are fun to discover. The emphasis on tradition, regional flavors, and the people who have kept these baking traditions alive makes every recipe feel like part of a larger story.
The collection offers plenty of comforting classics as well as recipes that are fun to discover. The emphasis on tradition, regional flavors, and the people who have kept these baking traditions alive makes every recipe feel like part of a larger story.
October 23, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This cookbook sounds like a wonderful resource for anyone interested in Southern baking and the stories behind its traditions. With 200 recipes and a focus on culinary history, it offers an appealing combination of baking inspiration and regional heritage. It sounds like a great choice for home bakers who enjoy discovering classic recipes, learning about traditional techniques, and exploring the stories behind beloved Southern baked goods.
This cookbook sounds like a wonderful resource for anyone interested in Southern baking and the stories behind its traditions. With 200 recipes and a focus on culinary history, it offers an appealing combination of baking inspiration and regional heritage. It sounds like a great choice for home bakers who enjoy discovering classic recipes, learning about traditional techniques, and exploring the stories behind beloved Southern baked goods.
January 16, 2025
An excellent book containing 200 baking recipes from the kitchens, tea rooms, boardinghouses, and bakeries of the the American South. Recipes are woven with stories past and present. I would suggest this is a must have cookbook for any baker. The biscuit and cornbread recipes alone are worth the price of purchase.
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