How to Make a Virtual Cookbook

Social gatherings look a little different now than they did at the start of the year. As a result of COVID-19, in-person gatherings like weddings, birthday celebrations and even movie premieres have been postponed or canceled to follow social distancing guidelines.

While you might not be able to spend quality time with friends and family in person, there are still ways to stay connected. You can chat on the phone, send each other handwritten letters or host a virtual cocktail hour (check out our favorite cocktails here).

One new way we're staying in touch with loved ones is with a virtual cookbook. Creating a virtual cookbook is easy, free and a perfect way to gather together (virtually of course).

How to Create a Virtual Cookbook

• Create a Google spreadsheet with separate columns for recipe title, ingredient list, directions, tips and photos. (Here, you can also share successes and get advice for that accidentally burned food!)

• Share the spreadsheet with friends and family so they can add their own recipes. Recipes can be existing ones you love, random dishes you make with the ingredients in your pantry or those top-secret recipes only grandma knows. If you need recipe inspiration, check out these simple baking recipes or our favorite comfort foods.

• Plan virtual cooking nights where everyone tries to make the same recipe. You can challenge each other to make the prettiest plate or just chat while cooking.

Why You Should Start a Virtual Cookbook

It's important to stay connected with loved ones during this time, and there's no better way to do so than with food (I'm pretty sure food is the sixth love language). A virtual cookbook is a great way to share ideas, no matter where your friends and family are. So create a document and start passing around recipes. We bet the results will be delicious!