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Migrate to Cook'n

Because MasterCook is no longer supported, the safest long‑term solution is to export your recipes while the MasterCook Windows app is still functioning. Fortunately, you can preserve your recipes by exporting them from MasterCook and importing them into Cook’n. Below, you’ll find clear, step‑by‑step instructions to help you complete the process smoothly.

MasterCook Preparation

First, make sure you have backup copies of your MasterCook files. See this article.

If you got a new computer and no longer have MasterCook but have your .mc2 and .mcx cookbook files, you can get MasterCook 14 free using the download link below.

You can add your MasterCook cookbook files to MasterCook 14 as explained in this article.

Cook'n Preparation

In order to transfer your recipes from MasterCook to Cook'n you need the Cook'n app installed on a Windows or Mac computer. There is a free version as well as three plan types. Start by downloading the free version using the links below.

You also need the MasterCook Import Plug-in. You can get that here: https://www.dvo.com/cookn-plugins.php

If you purchase an annual membership to Cook'n that plug-in is included and activates automatically when you upgrade to version 16. See these instructions: Upgrading to Cook'n 16

Step 1 - Exporting Your Recipes to an MZ2 File

Go to the Cookbooks screen in MasterCook on your computer.

Select/highlight a cookbook, but do not open it.

Then select Export and Mail from the File menu to export all recipes within a cookbook to a single MZ2 file on your computer. See details below, if necessary.

Repeat with any other cookbook.

Note: MasterCook can only export from one cookbook at a time. However, Cook'n can import several MZ2 files at once.

 

IMPORTANT: The name you give your MZ2 file becomes the cookbook's name upon importing into Cook'n. Plan accordingly.

Using the Export and Mail Window

As shown in the screenshot below.

  1. Select the Folder tab at the top of the Export and Mail window. Select a folder on your computer that is easy for you to find.
  2. Select the MC 14 Format with Images (*.MZ2).
  3. Select the Single File option and type in the name that will become your .mz2 file. Perhaps type a name that will be easy for you to find using Windows Search.
  4. Press the Export button. It creates the MZ2 file in the folder you selected in Step 1 with the name you typed in Step 3.

Export-MZ2.png

 

Using MC PowerExporter

Unfortunately, MasterCook can only export one cookbook at a time, so that can be a bit tedious. However, Jon Templin has created an app that will convert all of your cookbooks to MZ2 files. Get his app here: MC PowerExporter

 

Step 2 - Import Your MZ2 Files into Cook'n

The Cook'n app that installs onto your computer can import those MZ2 files. Use the File menu. Then select Import > MasterCook and direct it to your MZ2 files. It can import several MZ2 files at one time.

 

 

Please also see these MasterCook FAQs.

 

 

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