Fresh-baked anything has always created a feeling of home for me. As well, I strongly feel that anyone can bake just about anything better than the store-bought version with just a little bit of effort. From muffins to breads to cookies, I have tried many recipes over the years. I love watching my family smile as they sink their teeth into something I just took out of the oven.
Stocking a kitchen that has what you need for your baking adventures is worth the time and effort. I have always opted for high quality products that will last and have resisted picking up random items that I won’t really use. I’ve learned a few lessons the hard way. For example, all potholders are not created equal, and have burned myself on a flimsy one! Expensive and well-made cookie sheets are worth every dime. I recently made the mistake of buying a cheap one and it warped in the oven and was next to impossible to clean.
Here’s my top ten list. Let me know what products you swear by for baking as I am always looking for new ideas.
1. KITCHEN AID MIXER:
The mac daddy of all kitchen gadgets is definitely a splurge but will pay you back in spades. This is the best piece of baking equipment I own! The hardest part? Deciding what color to get!
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3. KITCHEN AID HAND MIXER:
Sometimes your project is small and you don’t need your standing mixer or you want more hand control. I’m a big fan of Kitchen Aid. This mixer is solidly made, easy to maneuver, and easy to clean.
4. STAINLESS STEEL MEASURING SPOONS:
I find stainless superior to silicone and plastic. It’s a personal preference, but these have outlived all others I have owned.
5. A SMALL SPATULA:
When baking things like cookies, sometimes a large spatula is too much. This is also great for taking brownies out of the pan or frying yourself an egg.
6. PYREX GLASS LOAF PANS:
Whether you are making banana bread or lemon pound cake, these dishes are the best made ones you will find. I personally find glass easier to clean. I have about 6 of these because I use them for baking as well as making meatloaf, which I sometimes like to freeze right in the pan.
7. SILICONE BAKING MATS:
I will admit for years I thought of these as frivolous or “an extra.” However, they really are great for easy clean up and ensuring your cookies won’t stick to the pan.
8. LE CREUSET PIE PLATE
I’ve bought several of these over the years. I think they perform well in the oven and they look nice on the table. I use them to make pies and quiches.
9. PYREX GLASS MIXING BOWLS:
There are a lot of mixing bowl sets out there. My husband prefers plastic, but I am glass all the way! I like this set because it has the sizes I really would use most.
10. A REALLY GOOD RUBBER SPATULA:
I think ones with solid plastic handles hold up the best. I find the I’m a big fan of Rubbermaid. This commercial grade one will last.
