Let me tell you right now — The Christmas Movie Cookbook by Julia Rutland is basically what happens when you watch way too many Hallmark-style movies and think, “Sure, I can make that perfect-looking pie while my life falls apart in a cozy, Pinterest-worthy way.” And honestly? I’m not mad about it.
This book is less chef hat, three-day baking project and more throw on a Christmas movie and make something that looks good on Instagram. It’s loaded with recipes for all the stuff you know the characters in those movies are baking — cookies, cocoa, cocktails, casseroles — like, if a snowman and a gingerbread house had a baby, this book would be its recipe binder. You’ve got Hot Cocoa Cupcakes, Christmas Morning Casserole, and more cookies than you could ever bake unless you’re trying to win over a grumpy widower who happens to be a secret prince.
Now, if you’re expecting these recipes to be straight from specific movies, slow your sleigh. A lot of these feel more inspired by the vibe than tied to an actual scene. Like sure, you could pretend that casserole showed up in The Holiday, but we all know Jude Law is not in the kitchen. Still, if you're not here to nitpick and just want to make cozy things while watching Elf for the 700th time, you'll have a blast.
I will say, the best part is how approachable these are — you do not need to be a pro. If you can use a measuring cup and know how to turn on an oven (or, like me, Google "how long do you bake sugar cookies again?"), you’re set. It’s the perfect book for those of us who want to feel festive without also weeping over a collapsed souffle.
So if you’re in the mood to drink something covered in whipped cream while Love Actually emotionally damages you again, this one’s a solid 4 out of 5 stars — fun, festive, and totally for people who want the magic of a Christmas movie, even if all you’ve got is your dog and a questionable bottle of peppermint schnapps.