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Elvira's Cookbook from Hell: Sexy, Spooky Soirées and Celebrations for Every Occasion
New York Times bestselling memoirist and pop culture icon Cassandra Peterson, as Elvira, Mistress of the Dark, delivers the definitive guide to ghoulish hosting all year round.
Hello darling, it’s me, Elvira—the afterlife of the party—here to bring the “Hell” to your next Hell-raising gathering! Ready to unleash your inner party monster? Well, I’m here to prove that the devil is in the details. Shock your fiends with sinister snacks, demonically delicious dishes, and cocktails so wickedly good they’ll make your head spin! But this isn’t just a cookbook—think of it as your Necronomicom of party planning. Between these pages lies everything you’ll need to make your next get-together a graveyard smash!
From a “Beastly Bloody Brunch” to a “Romantic Graveside Picnic” to a “Creepy Cocktail Party” to “Having Your Friends for Dinner”—Elvira's Cookbook from Hell is a volume bound to raise any party from the dead!
Hello darling, it’s me, Elvira—the afterlife of the party—here to bring the “Hell” to your next Hell-raising gathering! Ready to unleash your inner party monster? Well, I’m here to prove that the devil is in the details. Shock your fiends with sinister snacks, demonically delicious dishes, and cocktails so wickedly good they’ll make your head spin! But this isn’t just a cookbook—think of it as your Necronomicom of party planning. Between these pages lies everything you’ll need to make your next get-together a graveyard smash!
From a “Beastly Bloody Brunch” to a “Romantic Graveside Picnic” to a “Creepy Cocktail Party” to “Having Your Friends for Dinner”—Elvira's Cookbook from Hell is a volume bound to raise any party from the dead!
218 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 30, 2025
9 people are currently reading
118 people want to read
About the author
Cassandra Peterson
10 books173 followersCassandra Peterson (born September 17, 1951) is an American actress best known for her on-screen horror hostess character Elvira, Mistress of the Dark. She gained fame on Los Angeles television station KHJ wearing a black, gothic, cleavage-enhancing gown as host of Movie Macabre, a weekly horror movie presentation. Her wickedly vampish appearance is offset by her comical character, quirky and quick-witted personality, and Valley girl-type speech.
Born in Manhattan, Kansas, Peterson grew up near Randolph, until the area was flooded to create Tuttle Creek Reservoir; her family then moved to Colorado Springs, Colorado. According to a 2011 interview, Peterson states that as a child, while other girls were occupied with Barbie dolls, she was more fascinated by horror-themed toys.[1] During her teens, Peterson worked as a go-go dancer in a local gay bar.[2]
She graduated from General William J. Palmer High School in 1969. Days after graduating, she drove to Las Vegas, Nevada, where she became a showgirl in "Viva Les Girls" at The Dunes, where she met Elvis Presley. She had a small role as a showgirl in the 1971 James Bond film Diamonds Are Forever, played a topless dancer in The Working Girls (1974), and purportedly posed for the cover of Tom Waits's 1976 album, Small Change.[3] However, this story is apparently unverified as Peterson has since described it as "a giant mystery", claiming that while she has no memory of the event, the picture looks enough like her that she feels "pretty sure" that it is.[4] She is a vegetarian[5][6] and has appeared in a humorous Halloween-themed ad for PETA promoting a vegetarian diet.[7]
Born in Manhattan, Kansas, Peterson grew up near Randolph, until the area was flooded to create Tuttle Creek Reservoir; her family then moved to Colorado Springs, Colorado. According to a 2011 interview, Peterson states that as a child, while other girls were occupied with Barbie dolls, she was more fascinated by horror-themed toys.[1] During her teens, Peterson worked as a go-go dancer in a local gay bar.[2]
She graduated from General William J. Palmer High School in 1969. Days after graduating, she drove to Las Vegas, Nevada, where she became a showgirl in "Viva Les Girls" at The Dunes, where she met Elvis Presley. She had a small role as a showgirl in the 1971 James Bond film Diamonds Are Forever, played a topless dancer in The Working Girls (1974), and purportedly posed for the cover of Tom Waits's 1976 album, Small Change.[3] However, this story is apparently unverified as Peterson has since described it as "a giant mystery", claiming that while she has no memory of the event, the picture looks enough like her that she feels "pretty sure" that it is.[4] She is a vegetarian[5][6] and has appeared in a humorous Halloween-themed ad for PETA promoting a vegetarian diet.[7]
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
April 9, 2025
2.5 stars rounded up
It’s not like there’s anything wrong with this cookbook but there’s not necessarily anything right with it either. I think it’s a fun idea and very on brand for Elvira but something also feels a little soulless about it and the recipes are honestly pretty basic. Imagine anything you’ve ever seen on Pinterest for food to make for a Halloween party and that’s what this book is in a nutshell. I say this not as a hater but someone who wants to see more imaginative creations, I just expect more.
Apologies if I am coming off meaner than usual, my cat passed away and it feels like all the light has gone from my life.
Thanks to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for this eARC in exchange for an honest review.
It’s not like there’s anything wrong with this cookbook but there’s not necessarily anything right with it either. I think it’s a fun idea and very on brand for Elvira but something also feels a little soulless about it and the recipes are honestly pretty basic. Imagine anything you’ve ever seen on Pinterest for food to make for a Halloween party and that’s what this book is in a nutshell. I say this not as a hater but someone who wants to see more imaginative creations, I just expect more.
Apologies if I am coming off meaner than usual, my cat passed away and it feels like all the light has gone from my life.
Thanks to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for this eARC in exchange for an honest review.
April 9, 2025
So this was an excerpt and I didn't realize it and that's totally on me (apparently I may have reading issues lol), so I can't remove a star for that. I can only say to you that my rating is based on the recipes, crafts and text that I did have access to.
End result:
I will totally buy this.
This was fun, chatty, and a blast. The few recipes I had (I want more) were easy to follow and ghoulishly delicious.
Elvira's personality comes through in the text and the pictures were gloriously decadent and, yes, perfect for a Halloween date or party.
Wish I had the whole book...but eventually, I will!
End result:
I will totally buy this.
This was fun, chatty, and a blast. The few recipes I had (I want more) were easy to follow and ghoulishly delicious.
Elvira's personality comes through in the text and the pictures were gloriously decadent and, yes, perfect for a Halloween date or party.
Wish I had the whole book...but eventually, I will!
April 27, 2025
Thank you so much to NetGalley for providing me with a 16-page preview of this book. Even as a more casual fan of Elvira/Cassandra Peterson, I had a great time reading the pages I got. I went ahead and pre-ordered it, and I'm looking forward to seeing the rest of it and making some of the recipes!
Read
June 13, 2025I received a copy from Grand Central Publishing through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
If you’re an Elvira fan and like to collect anything related to her, then this will be a good book for you! Inside, you will find a variety of spoopy recipes and crafts. While the ARC I received is a 29-page excerpt, I fully plan on buying the book.. From the 29-pages I did receive, it looks like a fun book full of tasty recipes and dining crafts with a spoopy spin on them. While there isn’t anything necessarily new, it’s perfect for the Halloween vibes whether or not you are an Elvira fan.
If you’re an Elvira fan and like to collect anything related to her, then this will be a good book for you! Inside, you will find a variety of spoopy recipes and crafts. While the ARC I received is a 29-page excerpt, I fully plan on buying the book.. From the 29-pages I did receive, it looks like a fun book full of tasty recipes and dining crafts with a spoopy spin on them. While there isn’t anything necessarily new, it’s perfect for the Halloween vibes whether or not you are an Elvira fan.
January 1, 2026
This was lots of fun! The recipes are all horror themed and are easy to make. There are also themed crafts throughout. The photography is also fantastic. I tried the Dark and Sticky Mourning Buns and really enjoyed them and am looking forward to trying other recipes. I would recommend this! Special Thank You to Cassandra Peterson, Grand Central Publishing and Netgalley for allowing me to read a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
September 9, 2025
I love a good novelty cookbook. While I have only read the excerpt provided to me by NetGalley, what I have read was delightfully funny, filled with beautiful photos, and left me wanting more. Definitely shelf worthy.
September 26, 2025
Welcome to the cookbook where all your nightmares come alive in the most delicious way! This spooky cookbook from Mistress of The Dark is packed full of some beautifully haunting recipes and spooky crafts too. This is definitely a fun time for horror loving party planners. The photos that accompany some of the treats are wickedly gory and just right for any dark & gothic lovers. The descriptions were cleverly written and sound yummy. Sink your teeth in and enjoy a “deadly” party loving event cookbook for the spooky season or anything time really.
July 11, 2025
As a longtime lover of themed cookbooks (with a shelf of ten and counting), Elvira's Cookbook from Hell will be a ghoulishly delightful addition. I only received a short preview for review, but it was enough to know this book is killer. The recipe names are punny, and perfectly on brand for the Queen of Camp herself. If you're an Elvira fan who also loves a good cookbook, this is a must have.
Thank you to NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing for this sneak peek.
Thank you to NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing for this sneak peek.
October 1, 2025
Happy pub week to Elvira’s Cookbook from Hell, where brunch is horny, cocktails are cursed, and your napkin rings might double as dungeon decor. The Mistress of the Dark just turned your kitchen into a séance.
If The Addams Family hosted brunch and Martha Stewart showed up in a corset and stilettos, you’d get Elvira’s Cookbook from Hell. This thing isn’t just a cookbook, it’s a black velvet séance for your kitchen, lovingly summoned by the Mistress of the Dark herself. I only got a tantalizing little excerpt... just enough to leave me drunk on tomato juice and lusting after DIY bondage napkin rings... but baby, it was enough.
Every page drips with Elvira’s signature blend of high camp and low-cut gowns. We open with a welcome letter that basically screams, “Hi, I’m your horny goth aunt and I brought snacks!” I was immediately clutching my pearls and pouring a Bloody Hell Mary. Speaking of that drink? She’s not playing around. Horseradish, hot sauce, cayenne, and enough vodka to make you time travel. It’s brunch with the devil, and the devil likes it spicy.
Let’s talk about the food, because even in this little sneak peek, Elvira is serving. Literally. The “Swamp Monster Frittata” might sound like something you'd find in a gas station terrarium, but it’s actually a gorgeously green vegetarian delight full of spinach, broccoli, and herbs. A dish that says health goth in the most delicious way. It’s giving clean eating with a side of cursed energy.
And then we get “Sausage Guts,” which... girl. First of all, you know she cackled for 20 minutes while naming this recipe. This one is for the carnivores and chaos agents. You’re literally wrapping sausage in puff pastry intestines, brushing them with blood (aka ketchup, unless you’re feeling spicy), and serving them like you’re hosting Dexter’s potluck. And yet? Kinda want to make them for a PTA meeting just to see what happens.
The vibes are immaculate, but the attention to detail is also surprisingly tight. This isn’t just “throw some ketchup on meatballs and call it spooky.” You’re getting full menus with thematic structure. There's a brunch section, a graveside picnic, a cocktail party, a goth wedding dinner, even a literal “Have Your Friends for Dinner” course that sounds like Hannibal and Pinterest had a baby. The recipes themselves are legit. Not overly complicated. Not basic either. And the styling? Dead. I’m dead. The food photography is horror glam perfection.
Oh, and did I mention the crafts? Because yes, this book comes with DIY punk napkin rings. They’re basically mini leather chokers for your silverware, and I would totally wear them as bracelets. These little touches are what make the whole thing sing. It’s not just “cook this,” it’s “create a whole spooky experience.”
My one tiny quibble? I need the rest of this book like Dracula needs a blood boy. This excerpt only covers the brunch section, which was fabulous, but I’m foaming at the mouth to get to “Adroka Kozorole” and “Zombie Cake Toppers.” You cannot tease me with a dish called “Living Dead Lasagna” and then cut to black like this is a mid-season finale.
Still, I had the time of my afterlife with this preview. Whether you’re planning a Halloween bash or just want your Tuesday night dinner to have some edge, Elvira’s Cookbook from Hell delivers glam, gore, and giggles in equal measure. It’s kitschy. It’s campy. It’s actually kind of practical. And most importantly, it never forgets that the real star of any party is the drama.
Four stars, because I am spiritually withholding the fifth until I get the full infernal banquet.
Whodunity Award: For Crafting Napkin Rings That Could Also Be Used in a Dungeon
Big thanks to Grand Central Publishing and NetGalley for the deliciously devilish excerpt. Y’all really said, “Let’s give them just enough to summon a demon but not enough to feed it,” and I respect the chaos.
If The Addams Family hosted brunch and Martha Stewart showed up in a corset and stilettos, you’d get Elvira’s Cookbook from Hell. This thing isn’t just a cookbook, it’s a black velvet séance for your kitchen, lovingly summoned by the Mistress of the Dark herself. I only got a tantalizing little excerpt... just enough to leave me drunk on tomato juice and lusting after DIY bondage napkin rings... but baby, it was enough.
Every page drips with Elvira’s signature blend of high camp and low-cut gowns. We open with a welcome letter that basically screams, “Hi, I’m your horny goth aunt and I brought snacks!” I was immediately clutching my pearls and pouring a Bloody Hell Mary. Speaking of that drink? She’s not playing around. Horseradish, hot sauce, cayenne, and enough vodka to make you time travel. It’s brunch with the devil, and the devil likes it spicy.
Let’s talk about the food, because even in this little sneak peek, Elvira is serving. Literally. The “Swamp Monster Frittata” might sound like something you'd find in a gas station terrarium, but it’s actually a gorgeously green vegetarian delight full of spinach, broccoli, and herbs. A dish that says health goth in the most delicious way. It’s giving clean eating with a side of cursed energy.
And then we get “Sausage Guts,” which... girl. First of all, you know she cackled for 20 minutes while naming this recipe. This one is for the carnivores and chaos agents. You’re literally wrapping sausage in puff pastry intestines, brushing them with blood (aka ketchup, unless you’re feeling spicy), and serving them like you’re hosting Dexter’s potluck. And yet? Kinda want to make them for a PTA meeting just to see what happens.
The vibes are immaculate, but the attention to detail is also surprisingly tight. This isn’t just “throw some ketchup on meatballs and call it spooky.” You’re getting full menus with thematic structure. There's a brunch section, a graveside picnic, a cocktail party, a goth wedding dinner, even a literal “Have Your Friends for Dinner” course that sounds like Hannibal and Pinterest had a baby. The recipes themselves are legit. Not overly complicated. Not basic either. And the styling? Dead. I’m dead. The food photography is horror glam perfection.
Oh, and did I mention the crafts? Because yes, this book comes with DIY punk napkin rings. They’re basically mini leather chokers for your silverware, and I would totally wear them as bracelets. These little touches are what make the whole thing sing. It’s not just “cook this,” it’s “create a whole spooky experience.”
My one tiny quibble? I need the rest of this book like Dracula needs a blood boy. This excerpt only covers the brunch section, which was fabulous, but I’m foaming at the mouth to get to “Adroka Kozorole” and “Zombie Cake Toppers.” You cannot tease me with a dish called “Living Dead Lasagna” and then cut to black like this is a mid-season finale.
Still, I had the time of my afterlife with this preview. Whether you’re planning a Halloween bash or just want your Tuesday night dinner to have some edge, Elvira’s Cookbook from Hell delivers glam, gore, and giggles in equal measure. It’s kitschy. It’s campy. It’s actually kind of practical. And most importantly, it never forgets that the real star of any party is the drama.
Four stars, because I am spiritually withholding the fifth until I get the full infernal banquet.
Whodunity Award: For Crafting Napkin Rings That Could Also Be Used in a Dungeon
Big thanks to Grand Central Publishing and NetGalley for the deliciously devilish excerpt. Y’all really said, “Let’s give them just enough to summon a demon but not enough to feed it,” and I respect the chaos.
November 7, 2025
This is just what it says on the cover—it’s an Elvira-themed cookbook. Even if you never want to cook any of the recipes contained herein, I think Elvira fans are going to love this book if for no other reason than that it’s so beautifully presented, in a great hardcover format and will full-color photographs of almost but not quite all of the dishes and cocktails described.
Introductions to each chapter are written with a full helping of the Elvira wit. Introductions to each recipe likewise though to a slightly lesser extent. The recipes themselves, then, are a masterclass in efficient transfer of technical information. To me, that’s a good balance for a book like this between preserving the theme while also making it easy to learn the steps you need to take to replicate the dishes. I was also quite pleasantly surprised to find that in addition to the recipes for food and drink, it includes short descriptions of how to make spooky crafts, the likes of which you might want to display on your table for a Halloween party.
It does skew a little bit toward favoring hors d'oeuvres, finger foods, snacks, and cocktails, but full entrees and desserts are also well represented in certain chapters. The recipes themselves are mostly quite good, if not always to my own taste…but which cookbook could boast a 100% match with any given reader’s preferences? However, because many of them are themed to go with a visual presentation rather than just flavor, I have to admit that if you ever hope to make yours come out looking as good as the ones in the photographs, it’s going to take quite a bit of practice.
At the end of the day, it’s a much better and more serious cookbook than I expected from what I initially thought was going to essentially be a novelty publication. It may not be the very BEST cookbook I’ve ever read, but it’s quite good and certainly one of the more beautifully produced ones. Equally important for a book like this, it’s thematically on point and sure to please any Elvira fan out there.
Introductions to each chapter are written with a full helping of the Elvira wit. Introductions to each recipe likewise though to a slightly lesser extent. The recipes themselves, then, are a masterclass in efficient transfer of technical information. To me, that’s a good balance for a book like this between preserving the theme while also making it easy to learn the steps you need to take to replicate the dishes. I was also quite pleasantly surprised to find that in addition to the recipes for food and drink, it includes short descriptions of how to make spooky crafts, the likes of which you might want to display on your table for a Halloween party.
It does skew a little bit toward favoring hors d'oeuvres, finger foods, snacks, and cocktails, but full entrees and desserts are also well represented in certain chapters. The recipes themselves are mostly quite good, if not always to my own taste…but which cookbook could boast a 100% match with any given reader’s preferences? However, because many of them are themed to go with a visual presentation rather than just flavor, I have to admit that if you ever hope to make yours come out looking as good as the ones in the photographs, it’s going to take quite a bit of practice.
At the end of the day, it’s a much better and more serious cookbook than I expected from what I initially thought was going to essentially be a novelty publication. It may not be the very BEST cookbook I’ve ever read, but it’s quite good and certainly one of the more beautifully produced ones. Equally important for a book like this, it’s thematically on point and sure to please any Elvira fan out there.
July 20, 2025
My Rating: 4 stars out of 5
DISCLAIMER #1: I am reviewing a partial digital excerpt of this cookbook, not the entire cookbook itself.
I'm not usually one to request cookbooks, but when I saw this one, I just couldn't resist requesting it. Growing up, Elvira was such a huge part of Halloween (I'm old enough to remember when she even had a haunted house virtual ride at some amusement parks), that I knew I had to get my hands on her cookbook. Even if it was just a pre-release excerpt.
Right off the bat, let me tell you that as I was reading the quirky passages between in recipes? I absolutely read them in her iconic voice. Everything about that part of the book was exactly as I had expected. I enjoyed how she put her own trademarked Halloween spin on things, making it fun to read instead of the usual boredom I feel when you have to read a paragraph before getting to the actual recipe ideas.
The recipes themselves however? Left a bit to be desired. Now granted as I said above, I only received an excerpt of the book and my copy contained ideas to host a brunch. I definitely wish there had been a bit more variety, maybe one or two ideas from each of the chapters that will be in the finished product so that I could speak more about them. As it was, while the lead up was original and quirky, the recipes themselves seemed to be the same run of the mill ones you could find anywhere on the internet just by searching "spooky brunch ideas" or "Halloween brunch recipes". I also would have liked to see a bit more of the decorations aspect as well.
Even with that, I would definitely buy a copy of this cookbook when it comes out! I can't wait to try not only the recipes, but to see what other fun and spooky ideas she has for hosting the perfect Halloween party!
DISCLAIMER #2: I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the publisher. This has not affected my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own.
DISCLAIMER #1: I am reviewing a partial digital excerpt of this cookbook, not the entire cookbook itself.
I'm not usually one to request cookbooks, but when I saw this one, I just couldn't resist requesting it. Growing up, Elvira was such a huge part of Halloween (I'm old enough to remember when she even had a haunted house virtual ride at some amusement parks), that I knew I had to get my hands on her cookbook. Even if it was just a pre-release excerpt.
Right off the bat, let me tell you that as I was reading the quirky passages between in recipes? I absolutely read them in her iconic voice. Everything about that part of the book was exactly as I had expected. I enjoyed how she put her own trademarked Halloween spin on things, making it fun to read instead of the usual boredom I feel when you have to read a paragraph before getting to the actual recipe ideas.
The recipes themselves however? Left a bit to be desired. Now granted as I said above, I only received an excerpt of the book and my copy contained ideas to host a brunch. I definitely wish there had been a bit more variety, maybe one or two ideas from each of the chapters that will be in the finished product so that I could speak more about them. As it was, while the lead up was original and quirky, the recipes themselves seemed to be the same run of the mill ones you could find anywhere on the internet just by searching "spooky brunch ideas" or "Halloween brunch recipes". I also would have liked to see a bit more of the decorations aspect as well.
Even with that, I would definitely buy a copy of this cookbook when it comes out! I can't wait to try not only the recipes, but to see what other fun and spooky ideas she has for hosting the perfect Halloween party!
DISCLAIMER #2: I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the publisher. This has not affected my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own.
October 7, 2025
Originally posted on my blog Nonstop Reader.
Elvira's Cookbook from Hell is a tongue-in-cheek collection full of sauce, humor and fun by everyone's favorite mistress of the dark, Cassandra Peterson. Released 30th Sept 2025 by Hachette on their Grand Central imprint, it's 224 pages and is available in hardcover and ebook formats.
The book is arranged around thematic menus, complete with serving suggestions and recipes: beastly brunch, romantic graveside picnic, tricks 'n' treats, dining with the dead, macabre monster movie munchies, etc. There are 10 occasions in all, including a wedding feast. All are presented with Ms. Peterson's trademark wit and style. It's a very fun book.
Recipes contain a description and background introduction, ingredients in a bullet list, and step-by-step cooking instructions. Ingredient measurements are supplied in imperial (American standard) measurements only. The nutritional information is not included. Extra tips or recipe alternatives are listed in text boxes in the recipes. There are several vegan/vegetarian friendly recipes included. Presentations are, thematically, true to the aesthetic of the book (there's a breakfast puff pastry pie shaped like intestines and stuffed with sausage, for example).
The photography is well done and abundant; most of the recipes are illustrated with photographs which are clear and well done. Many of the recipes which aren't vegan-friendly could be made plant based with a little experimentation. The entire book has a fun, utterly irreverent, campy vibe.
Four and a half stars. Definitely one to thrill folks who love themed parties, or Elvira, or fun.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
Elvira's Cookbook from Hell is a tongue-in-cheek collection full of sauce, humor and fun by everyone's favorite mistress of the dark, Cassandra Peterson. Released 30th Sept 2025 by Hachette on their Grand Central imprint, it's 224 pages and is available in hardcover and ebook formats.
The book is arranged around thematic menus, complete with serving suggestions and recipes: beastly brunch, romantic graveside picnic, tricks 'n' treats, dining with the dead, macabre monster movie munchies, etc. There are 10 occasions in all, including a wedding feast. All are presented with Ms. Peterson's trademark wit and style. It's a very fun book.
Recipes contain a description and background introduction, ingredients in a bullet list, and step-by-step cooking instructions. Ingredient measurements are supplied in imperial (American standard) measurements only. The nutritional information is not included. Extra tips or recipe alternatives are listed in text boxes in the recipes. There are several vegan/vegetarian friendly recipes included. Presentations are, thematically, true to the aesthetic of the book (there's a breakfast puff pastry pie shaped like intestines and stuffed with sausage, for example).
The photography is well done and abundant; most of the recipes are illustrated with photographs which are clear and well done. Many of the recipes which aren't vegan-friendly could be made plant based with a little experimentation. The entire book has a fun, utterly irreverent, campy vibe.
Four and a half stars. Definitely one to thrill folks who love themed parties, or Elvira, or fun.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
October 25, 2025
🎃 Book Review: Elvira's Cookbook from Hell 🕸️
By Elvira, Mistress of the Dark, Cassandra Peterson
If you’ve ever dreamed of hosting a party that’s equal parts spooky, sassy, and spectacular, Elvira’s Cookbook from Hell is your devilishly delightful guide. With her signature wit and vampy flair, Elvira invites readers into her haunted kitchen to conjure up a wickedly good ghoulish gatherings—from blood-red brunches to moonlit graveyard picnics.
👻 What’s Inside:
- Sinister snacks and fiendish finger foods that are frightfully fun to make
- Wickedly good cocktails with names that’ll make you cackle
- Themed party ideas that go beyond Halloween—think Valentine’s Day with a vampiric twist or a summer soirée with a splash of the supernatural
- Elvira’s cheeky commentary that turns every recipe into a performance
🕷️ Why It’s a Graveyard Smash:
This isn’t just a cookbook—it’s a full-on party playbook for anyone who loves a little drama with their dinner. Elvira blends campy horror with genuine hospitality, proving that spooky can be stylish and silly can be scrumptious. Whether you're planning an at home party or a Halloween bash or just want to spice up your seasonal traditions, this book is packed with inspiration.
💀 Perfect For Elvira fans or anyway that wants to add a fun twist to their parties.
Elvira’s Cookbook from Hell is a scream in the best way possible. It’s theatrical, tongue-in-cheek, and totally unforgettable—just like the Mistress of the Dark herself.
Enjoy this spooky adventure with your family and friends.
🎃👻💀🌕
By Elvira, Mistress of the Dark, Cassandra Peterson
If you’ve ever dreamed of hosting a party that’s equal parts spooky, sassy, and spectacular, Elvira’s Cookbook from Hell is your devilishly delightful guide. With her signature wit and vampy flair, Elvira invites readers into her haunted kitchen to conjure up a wickedly good ghoulish gatherings—from blood-red brunches to moonlit graveyard picnics.
👻 What’s Inside:
- Sinister snacks and fiendish finger foods that are frightfully fun to make
- Wickedly good cocktails with names that’ll make you cackle
- Themed party ideas that go beyond Halloween—think Valentine’s Day with a vampiric twist or a summer soirée with a splash of the supernatural
- Elvira’s cheeky commentary that turns every recipe into a performance
🕷️ Why It’s a Graveyard Smash:
This isn’t just a cookbook—it’s a full-on party playbook for anyone who loves a little drama with their dinner. Elvira blends campy horror with genuine hospitality, proving that spooky can be stylish and silly can be scrumptious. Whether you're planning an at home party or a Halloween bash or just want to spice up your seasonal traditions, this book is packed with inspiration.
💀 Perfect For Elvira fans or anyway that wants to add a fun twist to their parties.
Elvira’s Cookbook from Hell is a scream in the best way possible. It’s theatrical, tongue-in-cheek, and totally unforgettable—just like the Mistress of the Dark herself.
Enjoy this spooky adventure with your family and friends.
🎃👻💀🌕
December 11, 2025
Another Halloween cookbook I got through my local public library after Halloween was past! Cassandra Peterson aka Elvira, Mistress of the Dark, is a clever and darkly sexy comedian and apparently a pretty decent cook, too. This cookbook has photos of nearly every recipe, though some are almost hidden in larger table spreads. Do you really need a photo of the mashed potatoes? The book is arranged by party chapters, each with their own main dish, sides, dessert, cocktail, and creepy craft. The chapters are: A Beastly, Bloody Brunch; A Romantic Graveside Picnic; Tricks 'N' Treats; Dining with the Dead (Mexican-American inspired); Macabre Monster Movie Munchies; Creepy Cocktail Party; Aunt Morgana's Spellbinding Supper; Have Your Friends for Dinner; Goth Wedding Dinner; and A Fortune Teller's Feast (Chinese-American inspired). Some of the dishes are things I've seen in other Halloween cookbooks, though the spice mixes seem uniquely different. There are vegetarian options for most of the meat dishes. Most of the crafts are things I probably wouldn't make, but the Spiky Napkin Rings and Ghostly Paper Lanterns turned out really cool. I'm hoping to try the Unpleasant Dreemz Upside-Down Cake pictured on the cover -- it is an upside down cherry cake made in a cast iron skillet and looks yum! We'll see if this holiday season allows for some baking downtime before the book is due back at the library. Otherwise...next year!
April 20, 2025
Thank you Netgalley, Grand Central Publishing, and Cassandra Peterson for sending me this advanced review copy for free. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Unfortunately because this is an advance review copy, I was only able to view the Brunch section. I was not given the whole book to review, and only received approximately the first 10%. My review will not cover the rest of the book.
I absolutely adore the vibe of this cookbook. It is goth in every way you can imagine, and warms my dark little heart.
I love that it is set up in sections for different types of meals, like brunch, picnics, dinner, movie munchies etc. The photos are mouth wateringly stunning, and the table decoration ideas are fantastic!
The recipes I was able to view are great! I love the little fun notes before each one too. They look appetizing, and the ingredients are easy to find and work with. The instructions are detailed, and I think even a beginner could cook them with no issues. This is a solid cookbook, especially if you like to entertain guests. There are only a few recipes that actually look super creepy, and the rest would be great year round meals.
My one and only complaint is that the white text on a dark patterned background is hard to read if you have vision issues. Thankfully all the recipes have a white background, and it's only the short introductions to each section.
Unfortunately because this is an advance review copy, I was only able to view the Brunch section. I was not given the whole book to review, and only received approximately the first 10%. My review will not cover the rest of the book.
I absolutely adore the vibe of this cookbook. It is goth in every way you can imagine, and warms my dark little heart.
I love that it is set up in sections for different types of meals, like brunch, picnics, dinner, movie munchies etc. The photos are mouth wateringly stunning, and the table decoration ideas are fantastic!
The recipes I was able to view are great! I love the little fun notes before each one too. They look appetizing, and the ingredients are easy to find and work with. The instructions are detailed, and I think even a beginner could cook them with no issues. This is a solid cookbook, especially if you like to entertain guests. There are only a few recipes that actually look super creepy, and the rest would be great year round meals.
My one and only complaint is that the white text on a dark patterned background is hard to read if you have vision issues. Thankfully all the recipes have a white background, and it's only the short introductions to each section.
September 12, 2025
OMFG I love this book! It’s a cute kitschy cookbook perfect for any Halloween fans to add to their collection. (Let’s be real who doesn’t have at least one cookbook?)
Elvira is a personal icon of mine and I was so stoked to get my hands on the arc copy. There’s humor in the writing. So keep an eye out for those subtle hints “voluptuous dough” etc.
Looking through the recipes the instructions and ingredients seem straightforward. Nothing too exotic that I saw or something you’d have to special order. It seems to be written for the everyday user, not someone who had to attend years of culinary school to bake a themed cake.
There were food images with wonderful macabre decor or illustrations throughout the book. Keeping to its theme, we even have some bondage napkin ring ideas and how-to for our DIY-ers out there.
I made the Reaper Roasted Potatoes and they were pretty good! Would make again for the family.
Elvira is a personal icon of mine and I was so stoked to get my hands on the arc copy. There’s humor in the writing. So keep an eye out for those subtle hints “voluptuous dough” etc.
Looking through the recipes the instructions and ingredients seem straightforward. Nothing too exotic that I saw or something you’d have to special order. It seems to be written for the everyday user, not someone who had to attend years of culinary school to bake a themed cake.
There were food images with wonderful macabre decor or illustrations throughout the book. Keeping to its theme, we even have some bondage napkin ring ideas and how-to for our DIY-ers out there.
I made the Reaper Roasted Potatoes and they were pretty good! Would make again for the family.
November 1, 2025
This yummy cookbook is everything you'd expect from the self-proclaimed "Martha Stewart of the Macabre." Here everyone's favorite creepy hostess offers up tasty ways to celebrate Halloween year-round. Chock full of stunning photos (and not just the ones of Elvira's impressive cleavage), you'll learn how to make everything from sausage guts to a bloody Bundt cake.
I was offered just a short preview from the publisher, but based on the author's taste in recipes, and her delightful sense of humor - "Brunch without alcohol is just a sad, late breakfast." - I have a feeling I'm going to want to buy this one.
Thanks to NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing for the sneak peek.
I was offered just a short preview from the publisher, but based on the author's taste in recipes, and her delightful sense of humor - "Brunch without alcohol is just a sad, late breakfast." - I have a feeling I'm going to want to buy this one.
Thanks to NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing for the sneak peek.
May 27, 2025
OMG OMG OMG To say that I am lowkey fan girl freaking out that THE Elvira has written a themed cookbook is an understatement. As a fan of Cassandra Peterson, everything spooky and kitch, this cookbook is a MUST for my shelf.
The cookbook is fun, casual, fully on theme, and gets me excited to plan a spooky event complete with hauntingly delicious snacks. What this cookbook offers are those cute and ghoulish recipes you find on Pinterest or the holiday magazines that hit shelves around September. You are not going to find any mind-blowing new recipe, but instead a book full of fun recipes and great photography.
Absolutely a must-have for an Elvira, Cassandra, or fan of spooky. Great themed cookbook!
The cookbook is fun, casual, fully on theme, and gets me excited to plan a spooky event complete with hauntingly delicious snacks. What this cookbook offers are those cute and ghoulish recipes you find on Pinterest or the holiday magazines that hit shelves around September. You are not going to find any mind-blowing new recipe, but instead a book full of fun recipes and great photography.
Absolutely a must-have for an Elvira, Cassandra, or fan of spooky. Great themed cookbook!
June 4, 2025
First of all, I LOVE ELVIRA. Even as a total chicken baby when it comes to anything even slightly scary, I've loved Elvira since childhood. Her cookbook is as fabulously creepy as you'd hope, with plenty of silly puns, and sassy jokes.
"And let's face it darling- a brunch without alcohol is just a sad, late breakfast."
Themed dishes complete with styled and detailed photos, perfection. Her bone-chilling berry bundt cake is so fancy and beautifully designed, I think I'll need to make one for my family soon! The addition of cute crafts (Punk/BDSM inspired napkin rings, what fun!) and gorgeous photos of the gorgeous goddess herself are an absolute treat.
Thank you, Cassandra Peterson, Grand Central Publishing, and NetGalley for this advanced reader copy, I can't wait to buy a copy!
"And let's face it darling- a brunch without alcohol is just a sad, late breakfast."
Themed dishes complete with styled and detailed photos, perfection. Her bone-chilling berry bundt cake is so fancy and beautifully designed, I think I'll need to make one for my family soon! The addition of cute crafts (Punk/BDSM inspired napkin rings, what fun!) and gorgeous photos of the gorgeous goddess herself are an absolute treat.
Thank you, Cassandra Peterson, Grand Central Publishing, and NetGalley for this advanced reader copy, I can't wait to buy a copy!
September 15, 2025
I received a preview of this book through NetGalley. Grand Central Publishing provided the first chapter: "A Beastly Brunch," for review; all opinions are my own.
This is a gorgeous book. The pictures are creepy but not overly so that they put you off the found. They are actually very pretty. Elvira provides recipes for food and drink, as well as advice on making napkin rings and what to serve the food and drinks on to keep the vibe going.
As for the recipes, the steps get wordy, and I wonder if that's because they wanted to format instructions into one page. It's harder for me to follow these kinds of instructions. I do better with simple steps that take multiple pages than paragraphs, to fit into one page.
This is a gorgeous book. The pictures are creepy but not overly so that they put you off the found. They are actually very pretty. Elvira provides recipes for food and drink, as well as advice on making napkin rings and what to serve the food and drinks on to keep the vibe going.
As for the recipes, the steps get wordy, and I wonder if that's because they wanted to format instructions into one page. It's harder for me to follow these kinds of instructions. I do better with simple steps that take multiple pages than paragraphs, to fit into one page.
April 16, 2025
thank you to netgalley, the icon, cassandra peterson “elvira” and grand central publishing for this arc. my review and words are my own.
i am a very big elvira fan and was excited to see this come across my dashboard and approved to look at it in advance. as expected the queen delivers in beautiful photos and the most unique and cool parts are her talking about her personal style, i would want more of that.
this reminded me of most celebrity type cookbooks and that’s not a problem but it didn’t stand out as something outwardly special. though as a fellow avocado in smoothie enjoyer, i will be using that recipe post haste.
i am a very big elvira fan and was excited to see this come across my dashboard and approved to look at it in advance. as expected the queen delivers in beautiful photos and the most unique and cool parts are her talking about her personal style, i would want more of that.
this reminded me of most celebrity type cookbooks and that’s not a problem but it didn’t stand out as something outwardly special. though as a fellow avocado in smoothie enjoyer, i will be using that recipe post haste.
June 3, 2025
My love for Elvira just got sooo elevated! This book is crazy attractive and just what you'd expect from an Elvira cookbook. Even more so, the recipes look and sound fantastic. It's clever, fun, and don't miss out on reading the extra things throughout the book. This is about entertaining and making food so enjoyable and I'm here for it.
I received this as an ARC and only got snippets of the brilliance and fun of the cookbook, but it enticed me enough to want to check out the entire thing. This is one hell of a trip that's going to be so much fun and with so much yummy goodness.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a glance at this. All opinions are my own.
I received this as an ARC and only got snippets of the brilliance and fun of the cookbook, but it enticed me enough to want to check out the entire thing. This is one hell of a trip that's going to be so much fun and with so much yummy goodness.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a glance at this. All opinions are my own.
July 29, 2025
Elvira's Cookbook from Hell focuses on creepy ghouly treats to make for your next party.
The Sections are
a beastly bloody brunch
a romantic graveside picnic
tricks n' treats
dining with the dead
macabre monster movie munchies
creepy cocktail party
aunt morgana's spellbinding supper
have your friends for dinner
goth wedding dinner
a fortune teller's feast
Each recipe has servings, recipe blurb, ingredients, directions and a picture to accompany. The cookbook has fun witty comments about each recipe and you can see the personality shine through the recipes.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The Sections are
a beastly bloody brunch
a romantic graveside picnic
tricks n' treats
dining with the dead
macabre monster movie munchies
creepy cocktail party
aunt morgana's spellbinding supper
have your friends for dinner
goth wedding dinner
a fortune teller's feast
Each recipe has servings, recipe blurb, ingredients, directions and a picture to accompany. The cookbook has fun witty comments about each recipe and you can see the personality shine through the recipes.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 9, 2025
Creepy, campy, gorgeous, this cookbook is just like the Mistress of the Dark. The writing is witty and full of puns, in Elvira's voice. I only had a portion of the book in my advanced reader copy, but the book was frighteningly fun. There are set menus based on party themes with little DIYs to host a perfect party. The menus are good, none of the food is too fussy or involved, and the photos offer a great glimpse of how to present the recipes. Perfect for those ghouls who love anything creepy.
Thank you to Grand Central Publishing and NetGalley for this eARC
Thank you to Grand Central Publishing and NetGalley for this eARC
October 1, 2025
I have such a collection of cookbooks, but I have to admit, I've never actually read any of them from cover to cover.
I pre-ordered Elvira's Cookbook From Hell and it arrived today (9/30/25) I have not put it down. It's visually stunning, has amazing food and cocktail recipes, crafts, tips to being the hostess with the mostess, and plenty of puns and that campy charm we absolutely love from The Mistress of The Dark. I am going to attempt to make every single recipe, just gonna Julie & Julia this whole cookbook!
I pre-ordered Elvira's Cookbook From Hell and it arrived today (9/30/25) I have not put it down. It's visually stunning, has amazing food and cocktail recipes, crafts, tips to being the hostess with the mostess, and plenty of puns and that campy charm we absolutely love from The Mistress of The Dark. I am going to attempt to make every single recipe, just gonna Julie & Julia this whole cookbook!
November 13, 2025
This cookbook is the perfect fit for all those spooky baddies wanting to spice up their kitchen and spookily tasty. These recipes look divine and have a great spooky twist on their names. Not only does Elvira put a spooky spin on the recipes but her dark spooky comedic fun that makes the cookbook inspiring and fun. I will just say The Bone Chilling Berry Bundt has been wanting to go to the store and whip it up right now. I will definitely be purchasing a physical copy of this to go in my cookbook collection. Because these recipes are definitely sounding to die for.
June 25, 2025
*Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the free copy*
A decent cookbook, I had only received a portion and the table of contents look like a good variety of party food to make at home. If you’re big on Halloween and Elvira in general, you might love the full cookbook, but you can just as easily snag a themed recipe elsewhere.
A decent cookbook, I had only received a portion and the table of contents look like a good variety of party food to make at home. If you’re big on Halloween and Elvira in general, you might love the full cookbook, but you can just as easily snag a themed recipe elsewhere.
August 4, 2025
I received a copy of this eBook from netGalley for a honest review.
For some reason only the first chapter downloaded but I found it to be creative and interesting. The food, crafts and decorating tips were all spot on for having a creepy good time. I will get this book to see it in it's entirety.
For some reason only the first chapter downloaded but I found it to be creative and interesting. The food, crafts and decorating tips were all spot on for having a creepy good time. I will get this book to see it in it's entirety.
May 4, 2025
Since this is only an excerpt, I can’t accurately say how good the entire book is. I can’t say that the first few recipes seem to be both doable and tasty. I’ll come back and do a full review once I see the whole book.
June 6, 2025
This is a short and sweet cook book, provides a couple recipes, 1 Craft, and a few beverages. The quirky details are all Elvira! This is a fun cookbook, with some devilishly good recipes. I’m looking forward to making the Guts!
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