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16 Essential Tools Every Baker Should Have In Their Kitchen
Baking is a delightful art form that requires patience, precision and, of course, the right tools. Whether you’re a seasoned pastry chef or a new baker, having the essential equipment in your kitchen can make all the difference in what you create.
From mixing to measuring and everything in between, here are 16 tools every baker should have at their fingertips.
Hungry for more? From mixers and baking mats to pie pans, bakers and more, our Bakeware Collection is chock-full of everything you need for your next bake.
STAND MIXER
The wedding registry icon: the KitchenAid® stand mixer. A workhorse in any baker’s kitchen, from whipping up fluffy meringues to kneading dough, this appliance saves time and effort, allowing you to achieve consistent results without breaking a sweat.
HAND MIXER
You don’t have to break out the big guy for every bake. For a simple whipped cream, a hand mixer will do the trick. Its lightweight design and versatility make it a must-have when your arm needs a break from the spatula.
BAKEWARE SET
Investing in a quality bakeware set ensures that you have the right pans for every baking project. Look for nonstick surfaces and sturdy construction to ensure even baking and easy cleanup. Bonus points if they’re corrosion-resistant and have rolled rims to prevent warping—which means they’ll last longer in your kitchen.
MIXING BOWLS
A set of mixing bowls in various sizes is essential for prep work and mixing batters and doughs. Opt for stainless steel or glass bowls that are durable and dishwasher safe so they’re easy to clean.
MEASURING SPOONS & CUPS
Accurate measurements are crucial in baking, and a good set of measuring spoons and cups is indispensable. Look for sturdy, stainless steel, easy-to-read tools that will stand the test of time.
ROLLING PIN
Whether you’re making pie crusts or rolling out cookie dough, a rolling pin is a time-honored rite of passage. Choose one with comfortable handles and a smooth surface for effortless rolling. We like the tapered, French-style pins, designed to grip and release.
WHISK
The secret to light, airy textures in your baked goodies, whisks come in all shapes and sizes. From balloon whisks for aerating to flat whisks for stirring in shallow pans, having a whisk in your arsenal ensures your mixtures are smooth and well-combined. Try to find one with an ergonomic handle and sturdy wires to make the task a little easier.
OFFSET SPATULA
When it comes to frosting cakes or spreading batter evenly, an offset spatula is your best friend. Its angled blade and ergonomic handle give you incredible control and precision for professional-looking results.
DOUGH SCRAPER
Dealing with sticky dough can be a challenge, but a dough scraper makes the task much easier. Use it to cut and lift dough from your work surface, keeping your hands clean and your dough intact.
COOKIE SCOOP
Niche, but nice to have. Cookie scoops come in a ton of sizes, and they come in handy when you want perfectly portioned, sweet morsels for even baking and consistent results. Not to mention, they speed up the process when you’re baking in the dozens.
COOKIE CUTTERS & PRESSES
Cookie cutters aren’t just for Christmas. Get creative year-round with a variety of cookie cutters and presses. Whether you’re making whimsical unicorns or bone-shaped biscuits, these tools add a touch of fun to your baking projects.
LOAF PAN
Whether you’re baking banana bread or meatloaf, this pan is a multi-purpose workhorse. With generous depth and capacity, its straight sides make it easy to serve perfectly portioned slices. Stainless steel, glass or cast iron, we recommend looking for a nonstick option with handles.
SILICONE BAKING MAT
Gone are the days of parchment paper. These new-age reusable mats provide a nonstick surface for baking cookies, pastries and more. Reinforced with a glass weave to promote even heating and airflow, you get a perfect bake every time.
PIE OR TART PAN
Apple, key lime or savory quiches and potpies, this time-honored essential ensures you have evenly baked and fluted crusts. It comes in a variety of shapes and sizes, from traditional pie plates to tart pans—it’s part aesthetic and baking style.
BAKER OR CASSEROLE DISH
This dish gets a lot of action—from casseroles to cobblers, a good stoneware baker can go from oven to table in one beautiful presentation. If casseroles are your party trick, find a dish with a lid for easy storage and transport.
Hungry for more? From mixers and baking mats to pie pans, bakers and more, our Bakeware Collection is chock-full of everything you need for your next bake.
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