This cookbook is considered an important text that provided insights into the language and culinary practices of former colonists, helping shape American identity.

[5] In her own words, Simmons claimed she was "circumscribed in her knowledge" and lacked "an education sufficient to prepare the work for the press.

The book contained practical recipes that catered to the wider American audience as well as meals that appealed to those who had larger budget as it taught its readers "how to eat simply but sumptuously".

[7] This work is considered significant for addressing the deficiencies of extant British cookbooks since it understood American culture.

[2] The United States Library of Congress, owning one of the only four known first edition copies, designated the American Cookery as one of 88 "Books That Shaped America.