25 Ways to Make Money as a Food Blogger

Hi, I’m Lori Ballen, a 6-figure marketer who has been successfully blogging for years, including food blogging. As a blogger, I’ve learned that there are numerous ways to monetize a blog beyond traditional methods like advertising and sponsored content. I’ve found that diversifying my income streams has been crucial in building a successful and profitable business.

That’s why I decided to create this article, which outlines 25 creative and diverse ways to make money as a food blogger. Through my experience, I’ve learned that offering unique and valuable content, engaging with my audience, and staying up-to-date with industry trends is key to building a thriving blog.

In this article, I will share practical tips and examples for each of the 25 strategies to make money as a food blogger. Whether you’re just starting your food blogging journey or looking to take your business to the next level, I hope this article will provide you with inspiration and guidance on how to monetize your passion for food and blogging.

1. Sponsored Content

How-to steps:

1. Develop a unique and engaging writing style and high-quality food photography.
2. Grow your audience through consistent, valuable content and social media promotion.
3. Create a media kit highlighting your blog statistics, demographics, and collaboration opportunities.
4. Reach out to relevant brands or join influencer networks to pitch sponsored content ideas.
5. Agree on the terms, such as payment, content requirements, and deadlines.
6. Create and publish sponsored content, disclosing the partnership to your audience.

Example:

A popular pasta brand partners with a food blogger to create a sponsored blog post featuring their products in an original recipe. The blogger discloses the sponsored nature of the post and receives compensation for their work.

2. Affiliate Marketing

How-to steps:

1. Join affiliate programs like Amazon Associates, ShareASale, or CJ Affiliate.
2. Choose relevant products or services to promote on your blog.
3. Create content around these products, such as reviews, recommendations, or recipe roundups.
4. Add your unique affiliate links to the content.
5. Disclose your use of affiliate links to maintain transparency.
6. Promote the content on social media and other channels to drive traffic and conversions.

Example:

A food blogger writes a post on “10 Essential Kitchen Gadgets for Home Cooks” and includes affiliate links to the featured products. They earn a commission for each sale made through their links.

3. Advertisements

How-to steps:

1. Apply for ad networks like Google AdSense or MediaVine.
2. Customize ad settings, such as ad placements and formats.
3. Integrate ad code into your blog’s HTML or use a plugin for easier implementation.
4. Monitor ad performance and adjust settings to optimize revenue.

Example:

Food bloggers display banner ads on their blog’s sidebar and earn money based on impressions or clicks.

4. Freelance Writing

How-to steps:

1. Create a portfolio showcasing your writing and food expertise.
2. Identify potential clients, such as food magazines, websites, or businesses.
3. Pitch article ideas or respond to writing job postings.
4. Negotiate terms, deadlines, and payments.
5. Write and submit your work according to the client’s guidelines.

Example:

A food blogger writes an article about the “Top 10 Food Trends of 2023” for a popular online food magazine.

5. Recipe Development

How-to steps:

1. Develop a signature style and expertise in creating unique, delicious recipes.
2. Network with brands, restaurants, and other bloggers.
3. Pitch recipe development projects or respond to requests.
4. Collaborate on recipe concepts, ingredients, and presentation.
5. Test and refine the recipes, ensuring they meet the client’s requirements.
6. Provide the final recipes, along with high-quality photos and instructions.

Example:

A food blogger partners with a vegan cheese brand to create an original plant-based mac and cheese recipe featuring their products.

6. E-books and Courses

How-to steps:

1. Identify a food-related topic that aligns with your expertise and audience’s interests.
2. Plan and outline the content for your e-book or course.
3. Write or record the content, incorporating high-quality visuals or multimedia elements.
4. Edit and format your e-book or course, ensuring it’s professional and engaging.
5. Publish the e-book on platforms like Amazon Kindle or the course on platforms like Teachable.
6. Promote the e-book or course through your blog, social media, and other marketing channels.

Example:

A food blogger with expertise in gluten-free cooking creates an e-book titled “30 Easy Gluten-Free Meals for Busy Weeknights” and sells it on Amazon Kindle.

7. YouTube Channel

How-to steps:

1. Set up a YouTube channel with a focus on food-related content.
2. Plan and script engaging videos, such as recipe tutorials, kitchen hacks, or grocery hauls.
3. Record and edit videos, ensuring high-quality audio and visuals.
4. Optimize video titles, descriptions, and tags for searchability.
5. Upload videos consistently to grow your audience.
6. Monetize your channel through YouTube’s Partner Program, sponsored content, or affiliate marketing.

Example:

A food blogger starts a YouTube channel where they share step-by-step cooking tutorials for their blog’s most popular recipes.

8. Sell Merchandise

How-to steps:

1. Design food-related merchandise, such as aprons, cookbooks, kitchen gadgets, or branded items.
2. Source products from reliable suppliers or manufacturers.
3. Set up an online store using platforms like Etsy or Shopify.
4. Integrate the store with your blog and social media channels.
5. Promote your merchandise to your audience through blog posts, social media, and email marketing.

Example:

A food blogger designs a line of fun and colorful aprons featuring their signature catchphrases and sells them through a Shopify store.

9. Host Events

How-to steps:

1. Choose an event format, such as online cooking classes, in-person workshops, or food tours.
2. Plan event details, including date, time, location (if applicable), and materials needed.
3. Set up a registration system and pricing structure for attendees.
4. Promote the event to your audience and relevant communities.
5. Prepare and host the event, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for attendees.

Example:

A food blogger hosts a series of online cooking classes, teaching participants how to create delicious plant-based meals.

10. Consulting or Coaching

How-to steps:

1. Identify your areas of expertise, such as food photography, blogging, or menu planning.
2. Develop a coaching or consulting package with specific services and pricing.
3. Create a professional-looking website or landing page showcasing your offerings.
4. Promote your services to your audience and relevant communities.
5. Onboard clients, discuss their needs and provide personalized guidance and support.

Example:

A food blogger with a background in professional food photography offers one-on-one coaching sessions to help other food bloggers improve their photography skills.

11. Podcasting

How-to steps:

1. Choose a niche for your food-related podcast, such as interviewing chefs, discussing food trends, or exploring different cuisines.
2. Plan, script, and outline your podcast episodes.
3. Invest in quality recording equipment and editing software.
4. Record and edit your podcast episodes, ensuring high-quality audio.
5. Publish your podcast on platforms like Apple, Spotify, or Google.
6. Promote your podcast through your blog, social media, and relevant communities.
7. Monetize your podcast through sponsorships, listener donations, or paid subscriptions.

Example:

A food blogger starts a podcast called “The Culinary Explorer,” where they interview chefs from around the world to share their experiences and unique cooking styles.

12. Subscription-based Content

How-to steps:

1. Identify premium content ideas, such as exclusive recipes, in-depth articles, or behind-the-scenes access.
2. Set up a subscription platform, such as Patreon, or a membership plugin for your blog.
3. Create tiered subscription plans with different benefits and pricing.
4. Produce high-quality, valuable content exclusively for subscribers.
5. Promote the subscription option to your audience through blog posts, social media, and email marketing.

Example:

A food blogger offers a premium subscription plan on Patreon, granting subscribers access to exclusive recipes, video tutorials, and a private community forum for discussions and support.

13. Brand Collaborations

How-to steps:

1. Identify brands that align with your blog’s niche and audience.
2. Develop a media kit highlighting your blog’s statistics, demographics, and collaboration opportunities.
3. Reach out to brands or their PR agencies, presenting your collaboration ideas.
4. Negotiate terms, including payment, content requirements, and deadlines.
5. Create and publish collaborative content, disclosing the partnership to your audience.

Example:

A food blogger collaborates with a kitchen appliance brand to create a series of blog posts and social media content featuring their products in various recipes and kitchen hacks.

14. Food Photography Services

How-to steps:

1. Develop your food photography skills and create a portfolio showcasing your work.
2. Research pricing and packages for similar services in the market.
3. Offer food photography services on your blog or a separate professional website.
4. Network with local restaurants, food brands, and other bloggers who might need photography services.
5. Market your services through social media, local business directories, and networking events.

Example:

A food blogger offers food photography services to local restaurants, capturing mouth-watering images for their menus, websites, and social media channels.

By implementing these strategies and adapting them as your blog grows, you’ll have the opportunity to diversify your income and achieve success as a food blogger. Be patient; building a profitable blog takes time, effort, and dedication. Remember to stay engaged with your audience, offer valuable content, and keep up with industry trends.

15. Speaking Engagements

How-to steps:

1. Build your credibility and expertise as a food blogger and public speaker.
2. Develop engaging presentations or workshops related to your food niche or blogging experience.
3. Network with event organizers, industry conferences, and other relevant gatherings.
4. Pitch your speaking services or respond to speaking opportunities.
5. Negotiate speaking fees, logistics, and event details.
6. Prepare and deliver your presentations or workshops, engaging and educating the audience.

Example:

A food blogger is invited to speak at a food blogging conference, sharing their journey and tips for building a successful blog.

16. Cooking Classes

How-to steps:

1. Choose a specific cooking niche, such as baking, ethnic cuisine, or healthy meal prep.
2. Develop engaging and informative class outlines, incorporating hands-on activities and demonstrations.
3. Choose a format for your classes, such as in-person or online, through platforms like Zoom or Teachable.
4. Set up a registration system, pricing structure, and class schedule.
5. Promote your cooking classes through your blog, social media, and other marketing channels.
6. Prepare and host the classes, ensuring a valuable and enjoyable experience for participants.

Example:

A food blogger with expertise in plant-based cooking hosts a series of online cooking classes, teaching participants how to create delicious and nutritious vegan meals.

17. Restaurant or Product Reviews

How-to steps:

1. Establish a reputation for providing honest, insightful, and valuable reviews.
2. Reach out to local restaurants, food products, or subscription box companies to offer your review services.
3. Negotiate terms, including compensation or complimentary meals/products and any content requirements.
4. Sample the food or product and write a detailed, unbiased review, including high-quality photos.
5. Disclose any compensation or complimentary items received in the review.
6. Share the review on your blog, social media, and other relevant platforms.

Example:

A food blogger partners with a meal kit delivery service to write a sponsored review of their service, sharing their experience and thoughts with their audience.

18. Food Tours

How-to steps:

1. Identify a food-related theme or focus for your tours, such as local cuisine, ethnic food, or food history.
2. Research and select locations or establishments to include in your tours.
3. Plan tour logistics, such as transportation, schedules, and group sizes.
4. Set up a registration system, pricing structure, and tour dates.
5. Promote your food tours through your blog, social media, and other marketing channels.
6. Host the tours, providing attendees a fun, informative, and memorable experience.

Example:

A food blogger organizes and leads culinary walking tours in their city, introducing participants to local food hotspots and sharing the history and culture behind the cuisine.

These additional strategies can help you expand your food blogging business and create new revenue streams. Remember to be flexible and adapt your approach as your blog and audience grow. Focus on providing value, engaging with your audience, and staying up-to-date with industry trends to build a successful and profitable food blog.

19. Virtual or In-Person Workshops

How-to steps:

1. Identify a food-related topic or skill for your workshops, such as food photography, meal planning, or specialized cooking techniques.
2. Develop engaging and informative workshop materials, including presentations, handouts, and activities.
3. Choose a format for your workshops, such as in-person or online, through Zoom or Teachable.
4. Set up a registration system, pricing structure, and workshop dates.
5. Promote your workshops through your blog, social media, and other marketing channels.
6. Prepare and host the workshops, ensuring a valuable and enjoyable experience for attendees.

Example:

A food blogger hosts a virtual workshop on food styling and photography, teaching participants how to create visually appealing and Instagram-worthy dishes.

20. Guest Posting and Collaboration with Other Bloggers

How-to steps:

1. Identify food bloggers within your niche or with a complementary audience.
2. Reach out to them with a proposal for guest posting or collaboration.
3. Discuss the content, deadlines, and any promotional expectations.
4. Create high-quality content that aligns with the host blogger’s audience and style.
5. Promote guest posts or collaborations on your blog, social media, and other channels.
6. Consider reciprocal collaborations or guest posts to expand both of your audiences.

Example:

A food blogger specializing in vegan desserts collaborates with a health-focused food blogger to create a guest post featuring a delicious and nutritious plant-based treat.

21. Offering Food Blogging Mentorship or Mastermind Groups

How-to steps:

1. Develop a strong reputation and expertise in food blogging and related skills.
2. Create a mentorship or mastermind program outlining the goals, structure, and benefits.
3. Determine the pricing and logistics for your program.
4. Promote the program through your blog, social media, and other marketing channels.
5. Onboard participants and facilitate the mentorship or mastermind group, providing guidance, support, and a sense of community.

Example:

An experienced food blogger offers a six-month food blogging mentorship program, helping aspiring bloggers learn the ropes, develop their skills, and grow their audience.

By exploring these strategies and continuously adapting your approach, you can expand your food blogging business and create a lasting and profitable venture. Keep providing valuable content, engaging with your audience, and staying current with industry trends. Building a successful food blog takes time and dedication, so be patient and persistent in your efforts.

22. Hosting Webinars

How-to steps:

1. Choose a food-related topic that is relevant to your audience and showcases your expertise.
2. Develop a comprehensive and engaging presentation, including visuals and interactive elements.
3. Select a webinar platform like Zoom or GoToWebinar and set up the event details.
4. Create a registration page and promote the webinar through your blog, social media, and email list.
5. Host the webinar, providing valuable information and engaging with your audience through Q&A sessions or polls.
6. Consider offering paid recording or follow-up materials for those who could not attend.

Example:

A food blogger hosts a free webinar on “How to Master the Art of Sourdough Baking” and offers a paid follow-up e-book with additional tips and recipes.

23. Offering Meal Planning Services

How-to steps:

1. Develop your expertise in meal planning, nutrition, and food budgeting.
2. Create customizable meal-planning packages addressing various dietary preferences and needs.
3. Set up a pricing structure and ordering system on your blog or a separate website.
4. Promote your meal planning services through your blog, social media, and other marketing channels.
5. Onboard clients, discuss their needs and preferences, and provide personalized meal plans and shopping lists.

Example:

A food blogger offers personalized meal planning services, creating weekly meal plans and shopping lists tailored to client’s dietary needs and preferences.

24. Hosting or Participating in Podcast Interviews

How-to steps:

1. Establish your expertise and credibility within the food blogging world.
2. Research relevant podcasts or reach out to podcast hosts with a similar audience.
3. Pitch yourself as a podcast guest, highlighting your expertise and potential topics of discussion.
4. Prepare for the interview by researching the podcast’s format and audience and gathering talking points.
5. Participate in the interview, engaging with the host and sharing valuable insights with listeners.
6. Promote the podcast episode on your blog, social media, and other channels.

Example:

A food blogger specializing in sustainable and ethical eating is invited as a guest on a popular environmental podcast to discuss the impact of food choices on the environment.

25. Contributing to Food Magazines or Online Publications

How-to steps:

1. Develop a strong writing portfolio showcasing your food expertise and writing skills.
2. Research food magazines or online publications within your niche or with a complementary audience.
3. Pitch article ideas or respond to writing opportunities, following the publication’s submission guidelines.
4. Negotiate terms, deadlines, and payments.
5. Write and submit your work according to the publication’s guidelines and style.
6. Promote the published article on your blog, social media, and other channels.

Example:

A food blogger contributes a monthly column to a popular online food publication featuring seasonal recipes and tips for sourcing local ingredients.

By continuously exploring new strategies and adapting your approach, you can continue to grow your food blogging business and achieve lasting success. Remember to provide valuable content, engage with your audience, and stay current with industry trends. Building a successful food blog takes time, effort, and persistence, so keep pushing forward and refining your strategies.