The English Housekeeper Cookbook

5R Elizabeth Raffald, 1776.

Notes

Elizabeth Raffald’s The Experienced English Housekeeper, first published in 1769 and reprinted in numerous editions, including in 1776, is one of the most celebrated English cookbooks of the 18th century. Written by Raffald, a prominent housekeeper and businesswoman, the book offers a comprehensive guide to domestic management and cooking for affluent households. It features over 800 recipes, including detailed instructions for meats, pastries, preserves, and elaborate desserts, as well as guidance on serving meals with elegance.

Notably, the cookbook includes one of the earliest printed recipes for wedding cake in its modern form, featuring layers of fruitcake covered in almond paste and icing. The book also reflects the culinary influences of its time, blending traditional English dishes with international flavors. Its practical yet refined approach made it a popular and enduring resource, establishing Raffald as a pioneer in culinary writing and household management.

Description

Marbled boards with brown leather corners and three quarter leather. Five raised bands and gilt lettering on red and green boards in second and third compartments. Spine has been rebacked. Water damage on title page and minor foxing throughout. Marbled endpapers