Plan your cookbook. Choose answers to the following questions: Who will use the book? How many recipes will I publish? Will I use recipes I already know or will I create or modify other recipes? How will I distribute or advertise the book? Will I include ingredient information, an introduction, essays or other material in addition to recipes? Do I need to take photographs of the dishes or hire a photographer and a food stylist? How will I test my recipes?
When you have planned all of the information you need for your cookbook, you can begin testing and writing.
Test recipes before writing the cookbook. As you test, jot notes that you can use later on when you compile the recipes. Continue to test and modify your planned recipes until you believe they are as good as they can be. Make sure to taste the final products of every recipe you plan to include in the cookbook. When using other testers, have them compile recipe notes and tips for your use as well.
Write the cookbook. Type it on a computer so that you can easily edit or make changes. Include introductory information and notes about ingredients and substitutions, if necessary. Write a short introduction to each recipe, and include specific tips or tricks for that recipe. List ingredients in the order in which they are used. Include the number of servings that each recipe makes.
Proofread the book, and edit it if needed. Look for consistent style, formatting and abbreviations throughout. Make sure all ingredients listed are used and all instructions are accurate. Finalize the manuscript by making finishing touches and formatting the document in traditional manuscript form.
Create a book proposal, query letter and marketing plan if you intend to submit the book for publication. Send your materials to agents or editors along with self-addressed, stamped envelopes. Otherwise, print the book yourself along with any photographs you have and distribute it to friends and family members.