I love baking! My mom claims that I was able to recite our favorite brownie recipe at the age of 3. I’m not convinced that it’s quite true, but needless to say I have been baking since a young age. Needless to say, fancy tools aren’t required, but they sure do help. I have compiled a list of my must have baking tools. Most of the items on this list are pretty reasonably priced and make great gifts. Whether you are looking for a hostess gift, a Christmas gift, a birthday gift or a “just because” gift the items in this list are sure to bring a smile to the baker in your life.
Spatulas
Having spatulas of various sizes is not only a must for baking but a must in any kitchen. I like these ones because they are silicone and it won’t discolor, warp, melt, crack or break like plastic or wooden spatulas. Plus, they are dishwasher safe! Buy it here!
Parchment Paper / Silicone Baking Mat
These are a lifesaver! Well, they might not really save lives, but they help prevent tears due to ruined desserts. Use these and you will never have to deal with cookies or cakes stuck to a pan again. The silicone baking mats are great when using a standard cookie sheet and they are environmentally friendly since they are reusable. The parchment paper is more versatile since it can be cut to size. Buy it here!
Cake Decorating Stand
I recently took a cake decorating course and discovered just how valuable a cake decorating stand can be. Being able to spin your cake around to smooth out your icing, is key since it allows up to access the whole cake without having to change positions. If you only make a cake once in a blue moon, this is might not be an item that you want to invest in. However, if you are frequently baking cakes for birthdays, parties or other special occasions, this tool will help you make cakes that wow. Buy it here!
Offset Spatulas
Another cake decorating must is an offset spatula. The blade is blunt, not sharp, and is used for spreading frosting onto a cake or pushing batter into an even layer in a cake pan. It is very useful when you need a little distance from the surface to prevent batter or icing from getting on your knuckles. Buy it here!
Cookie Scoop
A cookie scoop is a great tool to help ensure that your cookies are all a consistent size. Same sized cookies are all the same size and will cook evenly. The bigger ones are very useful for filling muffin tins evenly. Buy it here!
Narrow Measuring Spoons
It’s probably safe to say that every baker already has a set of measuring spoons. Recently, I upgraded mine. I used to struggle with measuring out the proper amount out of spice jars. These have been a game changer. Buy it here!
Fun Apron
You know the saying “Look good, feel good, bake like a Pro”? Probably not, since I just made it up. But, there’s no need to look like a slob while you’re baking. Not only will it protect your clothing, it will help hide the old ratty t-shirt that you are wearing. Get one in your favorite color! Buy it here!
Re-usable Piping Bags
Piping bags can be used for filling pastries, like doughnuts that are filled with cream or jelly. With a coupler and a tip, it can also be used to decorate cakes and cupcakes. Since my piping bag usage is quite frequent, to help keep some trash out of the landfill, I like to use the re-usable kind. My favorite ones are available in various sizes and made of silicone so, really easy to clean. Buy it here!
Mixing bowls of various sizes
Having a variety of bowls while baking is always handy. These are great because not only do they have lids, they are oven, microwave, fridge, freezer and dishwasher safe. Also, they are nonporous so they won’t warp, stain or absorb odors. Buy it here!
Stand Mixer
Yes, a stand mixer is a luxury and definitely not essential, but it sure does make baking easier. There are various brands out there, but I have a soft spot for the KitchenAid brand. It does come in a variety of sizes and colors. They also have many attachments available like a food grinder, a food processor, a sifter/scale, an ice cream maker and many more! To buy, click here and pick your favorite color!
Additional Stand Mixer Bowl
If you are lucky enough to have a beautiful stand mixer, you will quickly see that if you are baking frequently that you will want an additional bowl. It’s not a must, definitely more of a convenience. There are some options when it comes to stand mixer bowls. I particularly like the one in the picture below since it comes with a lid. If you are making frosting for example, it is great to have a lid that fits properly to avoid it from drying out. Buy it here!
Adjustable Rolling Pin
Until recently, I didn’t even know this existed. An adjustable rolling pin evenly flattens dough to ensure uniform baking. The rolling pin comes with various rings that you can put at the ends to help you roll out your dough to the desired thickness. Buy it here!
A Variety of Baking Pans
Having the right pan for the right task is always best. If you are new at baking, you won’t regret investing in a variety of pans. The next time you see a recipe that you want to try, you’ll have just the right pan to do so. Buy it here!
Fancy Pie Plate
Consider investing in a fancy pie plate. It can be a very versatile tool in your baking arsenal. Obviously, it can be used to bake pies, but also quiches, frittatas, for casseroles or as a serving tray. Buy it here!
If you have some of these must have baking tools, and are looking to put them to the test, check out some of our favorite recipes.
What is your favorite baking tool? Comment below!
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