A nitrogen-doped porous carbon materials (CPNs) with supported Co nanoparticles (Co@CPNs) with lamellar structure, high surface area and excellent magnetic properties was synthesized successfully by one-pot method. The Co@CPNs exhibited an excellent catalytic activity with 99% conversion and selectivity for hydrogenation of furfural (FAL) to furfuryl alcohol (FOL) under the pressure of H2. In addition, the Co@CPNs were further investigated in the kinetic study and selective hydrogenation of the other α, β unsaturated carbonyl compounds. The study of the Co@CPNs indicated that it was suitable for selective hydrogenation of the α, β unsaturated carbonyl compounds in the industry.