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Downton Abbey Cookery
The Official Downton Abbey Christmas Cookbook
This elegant coffee table cookbook highlights the luxe and elegance of the Christmas at Downton Abbey and features a collection of traditional British holiday recipes, from appetizers to desserts, that were popular during the Edwardian period.
Take a seat at the Christmas table of Downton Abbey, the historic British estate at the heart of the popular PBS series. Downton fans will appreciate this enticing collection of classic British holiday recipes from the Edwardian era, evocative narratives about Christmas traditions, and seasonal anecdotes from the award-winning series. Colorful photographs of finished dishes, fan-favorite moments from the Christmas episodes, and excerpts of character quotes bring the spirit of the holidays to life.
Take a seat at the Christmas table of Downton Abbey, the historic British estate at the heart of the popular PBS series. Downton fans will appreciate this enticing collection of classic British holiday recipes from the Edwardian era, evocative narratives about Christmas traditions, and seasonal anecdotes from the award-winning series. Colorful photographs of finished dishes, fan-favorite moments from the Christmas episodes, and excerpts of character quotes bring the spirit of the holidays to life.
240 pages, Hardcover
Published November 3, 2020
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313 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
December 28, 2020
Weldon Owen doesn't skimp on their cookbooks, even during a Pandemic. This is a gorgeous, full-color, hardcover book filled with Christmas recipes and traditions from Britain's past. Some are from long before the Downton Abbey days, traditions that carried over and some are from the future but classics of British Christmas tables the Crawleys probably would have known.
The book is divided into sections: Soups, Fish and Shellfish, Meat, Game and Roasts, Meat Pies and Savory Puddings, Sides and Vegetables, Sauces, Savories, Desserts and Sweets, Drinks. The recipes are modernized for modern kitchens but recipe notes explaining the history of some of the recipes and how they would have been prepared. The notes also explain the differences between English and American traditions and tie-in the traditions to the characters.
There are full color photos of the recipes and also from the show. There are quotes from the Christmas episodes for all 5 seasons. Beware spoilers if you haven't seen all seasons.
Needless to say, traditional British recipes from the Downton era are very animal heavy: stock, butter, cream, lard, beef, fowl, etc. all are used in these recipes. If you are vegan, don't plan on hosting or attending a Victorian/Edwardian/1920s traditional English Christmas dinner, I certainly don't want to make. Read this instead for the history behind the show.
The book is divided into sections: Soups, Fish and Shellfish, Meat, Game and Roasts, Meat Pies and Savory Puddings, Sides and Vegetables, Sauces, Savories, Desserts and Sweets, Drinks. The recipes are modernized for modern kitchens but recipe notes explaining the history of some of the recipes and how they would have been prepared. The notes also explain the differences between English and American traditions and tie-in the traditions to the characters.
There are full color photos of the recipes and also from the show. There are quotes from the Christmas episodes for all 5 seasons. Beware spoilers if you haven't seen all seasons.
Needless to say, traditional British recipes from the Downton era are very animal heavy: stock, butter, cream, lard, beef, fowl, etc. all are used in these recipes. If you are vegan, don't plan on hosting or attending a Victorian/Edwardian/1920s traditional English Christmas dinner, I certainly don't want to make. Read this instead for the history behind the show.
October 19, 2021
What a delightful pleasure to have! It might be a little bit early to enjoy it in the middle of October but why not?
December 23, 2023
I’ve enjoyed this book and used it three Christmases in a row. This Christmas I’m doing the coq au vin. Beautifully illustrated, love all the additions from the movie. Just well done. All the recipes I’ve been happy with.
November 13, 2020
I don't usually list my cookbooks on my Goodreads feed, but there are times... and this is one of them. THE OFFICIAL DOWNTON ABBEY CHRISTMAS COOKBOOK by Regula Ysewijn is a real winner!Why & how have I come to this decision? OK, I did love the series, but it's also filled with historical facts and stories about Christmases in England during the time period and within the settings of Downton's tv series. On page 30, titled "Kitchen Notes," the author begins with, "For this book, I've worked with original recipes in cookbooks from the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, with one excursion into the earliest cookery book in the English language..." and she follows up later on the page with, "The recipes in the following pages will give you the opportunity to host a Downton-inspired Christmas with dishes that are still relevant today. Some of them have hardly changed over the last hundred years; others have evolved to suit the contemporary need for..." I would say that she appears to have made "creating these food-historic dishes" in our own 21st Century kitchens as doable as possible. I have perused plenty of "old time" recipes over my multiple decades of home cooking/baking and would seriously be hesitant to try baking in a fireplace or ancient stove, even if I could access any of those things!
But aside from the recipes & the ingredients that I scoured as I devoured this book's words & awesome photos, this cookbook provided a richness of info about old English Christmas traditions as well. I love reading about different holiday traditions of all kinds, worldwide, but the food-related stuff is a "biggie" for me. I have "tagged" 21 recipes in this as possibilities for adding to my soon-to-be-cooked or to-be-baked or even a to-be-concocted list in the near, or maybe even farther into the future. I'm not likely to do a complete Old English Christmas any time soon, if ever, but I "starred" (as in "*") a few recipes for earlier creation in our kitchen . For instance, the author cites Dorothy Hartley's Food in England re her mentions of "Epiphany Tart" in relation to its 6-pointed star design with a dozen different jams, although Hartley did not provide a recipe in her writing. I want to try the Downton writer's version of that tart, perhaps for the real Epiphany holiday on January 6th (in honor, actually, of the Italian legend of La Befana!)
I've also always wanted to concoct a bowl of Wassail (singing: "Here we go a Wassailing…" like a Xmas caroler! I've found other recipes for it, so I'll compare some to Downton's, but substituting for the booze in it (maybe with extra cider?). It's also been years since I made Yorkshire Pudding with Roast Beef and, surprising to me, this book doesn't specifically designate the pudding being served with beef. Therefore, I see no problem with perhaps serving it with chicken since our daughter doesn't "do" red meat (or pork, for that matter!). In fact, the recipe info notes, "The earliest puddings in England, such as hackin pudding, were savory [recipe provided on page previous to the Yorkshire recipe], but they gradually became sweeter and sweeter, eventually leaving meat content behind completely. Yorkshire pudding, however, has traditionally contained neither meat nor sugar and can be savory or sweet..." and she goes on to include more of the Pudding's history. For Mince Pies, there's an option for either with or without meat (either ground or finely chopped lamb or mutton) - including some history (of course) that includes the fact the fact that, by the twentieth century, the filling no longer included meat.
Lots of interesting facts, recipes, and more. Some other of my "tagged recipes" in THE OFFICIAL DOWNTON ABBEY CHRISTMAS COOKBOOK are Apple and Celery Salad, Roasted Parsnips, a few sauces, Hazelnut Cake with Coffee Icing, Wardley Cake, and Smoking Bishop (I already know what non-alcoholic liquid I can substitute for the bottle of red port in the latter recipe!). If you love to cook and/or you're interested in the history of food, this might be a terrific book for you to get hold of. Not to mention that it's also about some of the delicious dishes you might've seen while watching Downton Abbey!
This is a well-earned 5-star review! Kudos go out to its author, British culinary historian Regula Ysewijn, and thanks to all those who may have aided her with a bit of research and those who "helped [her] eat all the festive food." If I only lived "across the pond," I'd have loved to be one of the latter group of "help" - yum!
But aside from the recipes & the ingredients that I scoured as I devoured this book's words & awesome photos, this cookbook provided a richness of info about old English Christmas traditions as well. I love reading about different holiday traditions of all kinds, worldwide, but the food-related stuff is a "biggie" for me. I have "tagged" 21 recipes in this as possibilities for adding to my soon-to-be-cooked or to-be-baked or even a to-be-concocted list in the near, or maybe even farther into the future. I'm not likely to do a complete Old English Christmas any time soon, if ever, but I "starred" (as in "*") a few recipes for earlier creation in our kitchen . For instance, the author cites Dorothy Hartley's Food in England re her mentions of "Epiphany Tart" in relation to its 6-pointed star design with a dozen different jams, although Hartley did not provide a recipe in her writing. I want to try the Downton writer's version of that tart, perhaps for the real Epiphany holiday on January 6th (in honor, actually, of the Italian legend of La Befana!)
I've also always wanted to concoct a bowl of Wassail (singing: "Here we go a Wassailing…" like a Xmas caroler! I've found other recipes for it, so I'll compare some to Downton's, but substituting for the booze in it (maybe with extra cider?). It's also been years since I made Yorkshire Pudding with Roast Beef and, surprising to me, this book doesn't specifically designate the pudding being served with beef. Therefore, I see no problem with perhaps serving it with chicken since our daughter doesn't "do" red meat (or pork, for that matter!). In fact, the recipe info notes, "The earliest puddings in England, such as hackin pudding, were savory [recipe provided on page previous to the Yorkshire recipe], but they gradually became sweeter and sweeter, eventually leaving meat content behind completely. Yorkshire pudding, however, has traditionally contained neither meat nor sugar and can be savory or sweet..." and she goes on to include more of the Pudding's history. For Mince Pies, there's an option for either with or without meat (either ground or finely chopped lamb or mutton) - including some history (of course) that includes the fact the fact that, by the twentieth century, the filling no longer included meat.
Lots of interesting facts, recipes, and more. Some other of my "tagged recipes" in THE OFFICIAL DOWNTON ABBEY CHRISTMAS COOKBOOK are Apple and Celery Salad, Roasted Parsnips, a few sauces, Hazelnut Cake with Coffee Icing, Wardley Cake, and Smoking Bishop (I already know what non-alcoholic liquid I can substitute for the bottle of red port in the latter recipe!). If you love to cook and/or you're interested in the history of food, this might be a terrific book for you to get hold of. Not to mention that it's also about some of the delicious dishes you might've seen while watching Downton Abbey!
This is a well-earned 5-star review! Kudos go out to its author, British culinary historian Regula Ysewijn, and thanks to all those who may have aided her with a bit of research and those who "helped [her] eat all the festive food." If I only lived "across the pond," I'd have loved to be one of the latter group of "help" - yum!
November 3, 2020
The Downton Abbey Christmas Cookbook is another worthy addition to this delightful collection. With its trademark gorgeous photography and interesting historical articles, the cookbook is a must-have for both fans of the series and cooks, alike. As an American, I particularly appreciate the Kitchen Notes that translate ingredients and equipment into what I have at hand. The stylish cover will make the Downton Abbey Christmas Cookbook part of the holiday décor in my kitchen. I highly recommend—it’ll also make an original and lovely hostess gift.
May 19, 2025
Do you want to know about the medieval christmastide traditions of mummery or factoids like the history farm to table of the aylesbury duck? Do you want to look at a pretty downton x cmas themed book with lots of photo stills from the show and just enough words to assuage your need for intellect? Then you might enjoy this book. Do you want useful tips in throwing a downton-esque holiday feast? You should probably still read this book for that purpose to understand what a bad idea that is.
September 6, 2021
I want to try it all!
November 11, 2022
These official Downton Abbey cookbooks are so week produced. Expert research, recipes updated just enough for the modern palate, beautiful production quality.
December 19, 2024
Another beautiful cookbook filled with lovely recipes and loads of history about Christmas. As with the first Downton Abbey cookbook, most of the recipes aren’t especially practical but I did bookmark several I want to try.
April 21, 2024
Indulging in the festive spirit with "The Official Downton Abbey Christmas Cookbook" was a delightful culinary journey. This cookbook, inspired by the refined tastes of the beloved TV series, beautifully captures the essence of Downton Abbey's holiday celebrations.
The recipes, meticulously curated to reflect the elegance of the Crawley family, offer a delightful blend of traditional British dishes and timeless Christmas classics. From sumptuous roasts to decadent desserts, each page is a gastronomic adventure waiting to unfold.
What sets this cookbook apart is the seamless integration of historical context, providing a glimpse into the culinary traditions of the early 20th century. The attention to detail, both in terms of the recipes and the accompanying anecdotes, adds a charming touch that enhances the overall experience.
Whether you're planning a grand holiday feast or simply yearning for a taste of Downton Abbey's festive charm, this cookbook is a culinary masterpiece. The recipes are accessible, well-explained, and, most importantly, delicious. "The Official Downton Abbey Christmas Cookbook" is not just a collection of recipes; it's a celebration of tradition, sophistication, and the joy of sharing good food with loved ones during the most wonderful time of the year. It's a must-have for both fans of the series and anyone looking to infuse their holiday table with a touch of Downton magic.
The recipes, meticulously curated to reflect the elegance of the Crawley family, offer a delightful blend of traditional British dishes and timeless Christmas classics. From sumptuous roasts to decadent desserts, each page is a gastronomic adventure waiting to unfold.
What sets this cookbook apart is the seamless integration of historical context, providing a glimpse into the culinary traditions of the early 20th century. The attention to detail, both in terms of the recipes and the accompanying anecdotes, adds a charming touch that enhances the overall experience.
Whether you're planning a grand holiday feast or simply yearning for a taste of Downton Abbey's festive charm, this cookbook is a culinary masterpiece. The recipes are accessible, well-explained, and, most importantly, delicious. "The Official Downton Abbey Christmas Cookbook" is not just a collection of recipes; it's a celebration of tradition, sophistication, and the joy of sharing good food with loved ones during the most wonderful time of the year. It's a must-have for both fans of the series and anyone looking to infuse their holiday table with a touch of Downton magic.
January 4, 2023
This was a delightful read. Lots of tid-bits of knowledge that I found fascinating. Such as where tutti-frutti comes from and how buttermilk today is actually cultured milk. I appreciated how her directions explained why some things are done a certain way, because sometimes you do wonder! There were also historical facts on the different cakes and puddings and punches that I enjoyed. Even a tutorial on Christmas Crackers!
I’ve been thinking about renewing The Twelve Days of Christmas in our home and was pleasantly surprised by how much of that tradition was mentioned in this book. I will probably only use a handful of these recipes, but they will all be for TDOC. I didn’t expect this to help my planning, but it really did!
All in all, this was a beautiful book that is extremely interesting and also brought back the nostalgia of watching Downton Abbey.
I’ve been thinking about renewing The Twelve Days of Christmas in our home and was pleasantly surprised by how much of that tradition was mentioned in this book. I will probably only use a handful of these recipes, but they will all be for TDOC. I didn’t expect this to help my planning, but it really did!
All in all, this was a beautiful book that is extremely interesting and also brought back the nostalgia of watching Downton Abbey.
January 29, 2023
Very pleasantly surprised with the high quality of the recipes and historical information in this book. I have many novelty cookbooks based on popular books, movies, etc, and typically they're just kind of fun with good photos but otherwise not particularly well done or useful as cookbooks. This one is excellent-- enjoyable to read and I found many recipes that will be fun to try. Look forward to reading the other two official cookbooks based on the Downton Abbey franchise (on afternoon tea recipes and cocktails), since I also love the first Downton Abbey cookbook.
December 23, 2022
Beautiful aesthetic- gorgeous cover and photos from the show and of the recipes. I also enjoyed the writing on the traditions of Christmas and how holidays were spent at Downtown and also how they would have been spent by the staff. A lot of the recipes are heavy on game and may not translate to the "American" palate such as the mutton and the savory meat puddings but even is every recipe may not be one I may not personally wish to cook I loved "reading" this cookbook/history book.
January 15, 2022
A beautiful cookbook with lots of recipes to try. The author includes the history of each dish along with photographs and quotes from the show. Beautiful photographs of recipes are included as well.
May 2, 2022
I liked this cookbook but it wasn't anything memorable. I like the aesthetic of Downton Abbey but I feel like if I'd watched the show, I would have enjoyed it a little bit more. Nonetheless, pretty solid cookbook.
January 2, 2023
Much more than a cookbook, I learned from the narratives about how Christmas has been celebrated throughout the centuries, early British cookbooks, and British holiday traditions. The Downton photographs and character quotes make me want to rewatch the Christmas episodes.
January 3, 2023
Very interesting!
I just read through these and would really love to try some of these recipes. Some of them have ingredients that I am afraid would be hard to find but they all sound delicious!
I just read through these and would really love to try some of these recipes. Some of them have ingredients that I am afraid would be hard to find but they all sound delicious!
December 2, 2020
I can’t comment on the recipes in this book as I will never be making them. But the history associated with each recipe is fascinating. And the pictures of the food are gorgeous.
January 6, 2021
Enjoyable, it includes some historical contexts as well as quotes from the show. Some recipes are familiar and I can't wait to make some.
May 21, 2021
Beautiful book. Gives a nice history of how the celebration of Christmas has changed in England over the years. Probably won’t be making any of these recipes, but fun to read and look at the photos.
December 1, 2021
You will find more than recipes in this magnificent book!
December 6, 2024
Interesting to read about Edwardian history and cuisine.
December 1, 2025
Great book but there are many useless details
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews