The biggest reason people stay with a recipe app they have outgrown is fear of losing their collection. Switching does not have to mean retyping hundreds of recipes. With a little planning you can move to a better tool while keeping everything that matters.
Step 1: take stock before you move
List where your recipes actually live. Most people are spread across an old app, browser bookmarks, screenshots, and a notes file. You only need to migrate the recipes you genuinely cook, not every link you ever saved.
Step 2: choose how each recipe will transfer
- Recipes with a live web link: re-import the URL into the new app so it rebuilds them cleanly
- Recipes saved from cooking videos: re-import the YouTube link instead of retyping
- Recipes only in screenshots or your head: add them manually once
- Anything you no longer cook: let it go, a clean collection is the whole point
Step 3: rebuild structure, not just text
As you import, add tags or collections so the new app is organised from day one. This is the moment to fix the mess that made you switch. If you are coming from a specific tool, our comparisons like CookBuddy vs Paprika and vs AnyList cover what transfers well and what does not.
Keep your old app installed for two weeks after switching. Migrate recipes as you cook them rather than all at once, you will naturally move the ones you use and quietly drop the ones you never touch.
Because CookBuddy rebuilds a recipe from its original link or YouTube video, switching is mostly pasting links rather than retyping. The source stays credited and the recipe comes out clean and structured. CookBuddy turns any recipe link or YouTube cooking video into a clean, cookable recipe — then helps you plan, shop, and cook hands-free. It's free to start.
See the best ways to save recipes for capture tips, then start free and bring your favourites across.
App features and pricing change often, and we keep our comparisons broad and fair rather than quoting exact prices. Check each app's official site for the latest before you decide.