Google Search Recipe Results Now More Publisher Friendly

01/22/26
Source: Search Engine Roundtable by barry@rustybrick.com (Barry Schwartz). Read the original article

TL;DR Summary of Google Adjusts Recipe Search Results to Benefit Bloggers and Publishers

Google appears to be rolling out updates to its recipe search results to address previous issues that harmed recipe bloggers by mixing content and damaging branding. The recipe carousel is making a comeback, while the AI Overview section is being pushed down or removed for many queries. Early reports signal a more publisher-friendly experience with proper recipe card links returning, though some citation issues remain.

Optimixed’s Overview: Google’s Recipe Search Enhancements Signal Positive Shift for Content Creators

Background on Recipe Search Challenges

Previously, Google’s recipe search results were criticized for the so-called “Frankenstein recipes” problem, where content from multiple bloggers was combined inaccurately and displayed alongside the original brand names. This approach not only confused users but also diluted the branding and SEO value for recipe publishers and bloggers.

What’s Changing with the New Update?

  • Recipe Carousel Returns: Google is reintroducing the recipe carousel prominently for many queries, which helps users easily browse authentic recipes from trusted sources.
  • AI Overview Section Adjusted: The AI-generated overview that previously dominated some recipe queries is now being pushed lower on the page or removed, reducing confusion and content dilution.
  • Improved Domain Attribution: Recipe card links are once again visible within the AI Overview for broader searches, helping publishers regain proper credit for their content.

Current Limitations and Industry Reaction

While the update is promising, some issues remain:

  • On branded recipe searches, the AI Overview still appears but only shows key ingredients rather than full recipes.
  • Domain recipe page citation inconsistencies have been noted, indicating Google’s fix is still a work in progress.

Content creators like Adam Gallagher from Inspired Taste have shared positive early experiences with the update, noting consistent improvements during incognito searches for general recipe terms. The SEO and blogging community is hopeful this signals a broader rollout that better supports original recipe publishers.