ABC Cooking Book Series: Cookies, Desserts, Chafing Dish, Canapes, Cocktails and Jiffy Cooking

Peter Pauper Press is re-releasing many of their vintage cookbooks in ebook format. The ABC cookbook series each contain an alphabetical listing of similar topic recipes inside different cookbook titles. I had a chance to read and review 6 of them. Two of them pastry related, and the rest perfect for the holidays. Each are quick reads and all reflect the sign of the times in the 50s and 60s. The cocktails cookbook was really eye opening. The pastry books are on the Old School Pastry Blog and the others are on Sand and Succotash. Read on for each of the reviews.

The ABC of Desserts

Originally published in 1958, there are 64 different recipes covering dessert classics.

The ABC of Cookies

Many different cookie recipes, and I've included the recipe for Gingersnaps from the book.

The ABC of Cocktails

This 1953 reprint is a bar book that shows its 'sign of the times' when stiff drinks and cocktails were in order, no matter what time of day, social or business.


The ABC of Jiffy Cookery

Short on time? The ABC of Jiffy Cookery, originally published in 1961, focuses on recipes that are quick to put together or can cook left undisturbed in the oven or pot.

The ABC of Canapes

The ABC of Canapes was first published in 1953 when canapes containing pimentos and sardines reigned supreme.

The ABC of Chafing Dish Cookery 

Another book from the mid 50s, The ABC of Chafing Dish Cookery was published when the little chafing dish was in popularity, and people simply entertained more. And ate in front of the television.