How do I export recipes from Cook'n?

Cook'n offers two export paths: File > Backup creates a .ckn (full library backup), and File > Export creates a .dvo (per-cookbook export with structured ingredient data). Both are supported. Upload either to MoveMyRecipes to convert to JSON, PDF, CSV, Markdown, or other open formats.

Can I use my Cook'n recipes in a different app?

Yes. Converting your .ckn or .dvo files lets you use your recipes in any app. Export to open formats like PDF, JSON, or CSV using MoveMyRecipes and your recipes work anywhere.

Can I use my Cook'n recipes outside of Cook'n apps?

.ckn and .dvo files aren't readable by most other recipe apps without conversion. By exporting to open formats like PDF, JSON, or CSV, you can access your recipes in any app or share them with anyone.

Can I convert Cook'n recipes to use in another app?

Absolutely. MoveMyRecipes converts Cook'n recipes to universal formats like JSON (Schema.org), CSV, and Markdown that can be imported into many other recipe apps.

.ckn backups and .dvo cookbook exports supported

Your Cook'n recipes, in formats that work anywhere.

Export your .ckn or .dvo files once and use your recipes in any app, on any device — no matter where your cooking journey takes you.

100% free. Your recipes, your formats, forever.

How to Export from Cook'n Recipe Organizer

Get your recipes out of Cook'n and into formats you control.

1

Open Cook'n on your computer

Launch Cook'n Recipe Organizer. You'll need the desktop version (Windows or Mac) to export your recipes.

On Windows: Open Cook'n from the Start menu or desktop shortcut
On Mac: Open Cook'n from your Applications folder
Make sure you're viewing your recipe library

Tip: If you have multiple cookbooks, you may need to export each one separately.

2

Go to File > Export (or Backup)

In the menu bar, click File and look for Export, Backup, or similar options.

Windows: File > Export Recipes or File > Backup
Mac: File > Export or Cook'n > Export
Look for options like 'Export to file' or 'Create backup'

Tip: Different Cook'n versions may have slightly different menu layouts.

3

Select recipes and format

Choose which recipes to export. Select all recipes to get your complete collection.

Select 'All Recipes' or use Ctrl+A / Cmd+A to select all
Cook'n may offer different export formats - choose the most complete option
If given a choice, select 'Include images' or 'Full export'

4

Save the export file

Choose a location on your computer and save the file. Remember where you save it!

Cook'n will create an export file (the format varies by version). This file contains your recipes and can be converted to any format.

5

Upload to MoveMyRecipes

Upload your .ckn or .dvo file above and we'll convert it to PDF, JSON, CSV, Markdown, or any other format you need.

Tip: Your recipes are processed securely and deleted after 7 days.

Cook'n Database Location

If you can't find an export option, Cook'n stores your recipes in a database file. On Windows, backups are typically in Documents\Cook'n Backups. We'll be able to help you locate and convert this file.

Why export your Cook'n recipes

Exporting gives you a portable copy of your collection that isn't tied to any single app or version.

Take your recipes anywhere

Cook'n offers a free base app with optional subscription tiers for cloud sync and advanced features. Exporting now means your collection works in any app you choose, regardless of which plan you use.

Proprietary file formats

.ckn and .dvo files aren't readable by most other recipe apps without conversion. Export to universal formats and use them anywhere — any app, any device, forever.

Switch apps without losing anything

What if you want to use your recipes in a different app? Converting to open formats means your collection is always portable, whatever you decide next.

Modern app compatibility

Want to use a sleek new recipe app? We export to universal formats that modern apps can import.

Your recipes should move with you

Keep them for yourself, or take them wherever you go next.

Keep forever

PDFs, printouts, your own archive. Your recipes in formats that never expire.

Move to any app

Standard formats any recipe app can import. Switch apps without starting over.

Future-proof

Apps come and go, but your recipes stay yours forever.

Export to any format

Get your recipes in formats that work for you

{ }

JSON

Schema.org compliant

PDF

Print-ready cards

CSV

Excel-friendly

MD

Markdown

Plain text

.cook

CookLang

For developers

DB

SQLite

Portable database

ORF

Open Recipe

YAML format

Supported Cook'n formats

We support Cook'n database exports from version 10 and later.

.ckn

Cook'n Database Backup

Supported

Cook'n's full database backup. Contains every recipe, ingredient, and bit of metadata in your library.

Found in Documents\Cook'n or via File > Backup

.dvo

Cook'n Cookbook Export

Supported

Per-cookbook export with ingredients, units, brands, and nutrition data preserved as separate fields.

Created via File > Export > Cook'n format

Ready to free your Cook'n recipes?

Upload your .ckn or .dvo file above to get started.