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Not sure what to give the baker in your life this year? Looking to grab some new goodies for yourself?
I often get asked what my favorite tools are, so I’ve collected my top picks for you!
Whether you’re looking for a kitchen upgrade or a few items to tuck into a gift basket, check out my recommendations for the best bakers’ gifts.
Mixers
I grew up baking without a power mixer, but now I’m often using one or both of my mixers multiple times a day.
hand mixer
I love to use the hand mixer for whipping cream or mixing softened cream cheese like for my cheese danishes.
stand mixer
My KitchenAid mixer has been a part of my kitchen for nearly 20 years now! This introductory version is still a workhorse, at a smaller size and lower price than the larger capacity mixers.
There are plenty of other stand mixer options at varying price points, so there’s definitely one to fit your needs!
Essentials
Sure, your favorite baker might already have some of these tools on hand, but how are they looking?
Maybe their measuring spoons were half-eaten by the garbage disposal. (Been there.)
Maybe they accidentally sliced through their pastry mat. (Also been there.)
The holidays are a great time for an upgrade or replacement!
measuring tools
I have multiple sets of measuring tools because I’m constantly in the kitchen.
These stainless dry measure tools and beaker liquid measuring cups are what I reach for every day.
silicone baking mat
Reusable baking mats are perfect for cookies, roasting veggies, and more. They fit right into most standard half-sheet baking pans and wash up quickly.
Store flat, or roll up and secure inside a used paper towel or toilet paper tube!
pastry rolling mat
Pairing perfectly with the baking mat above, this pastry mat makes rolling pie crusts to the right size a cinch.
You’ll need less flour as you roll, and I love that it keeps the counters clean, too!
cookie scoop
Level up cookie baking with a cookie scoop. They come in multiple sizes, but a medium cookie scoop is the ideal size for classic cookies like snickerdoodles or chocolate chip cookies.
rolling pin
I like this nonstick rolling pin because you can use less flour while rolling out pie crusts and doughs. It cleans up easily, too.
bench scraper
I use my bench scraper for EVERYTHING. They’re fantastic for scraping dough, transferring pie crust to a pie plate, or moving chopped fruit and herbs from the cutting board to a bowl. A new bench scraper is always a welcome gift in my house.
apron
I LOVE Hedley & Bennett aprons — I’m even wearing one in my profile photos!
They are not just stylish with all the fun prints, they have lots of useful pockets and a towel loop.
Plus, as someone who is only 5’4″, the adjustable straps on these aprons actually stay adjusted, which is a huge plus in my book!
Must-have ingredients
I love gifting (and getting) ingredients — there’s no long-term clutter and ingredients are always useful! These are just a few of my favorites.
Vanilla
Vanilla is a staple ingredient for everything from pancakes and muffins to cookies and pies.
I always recommend using pure vanilla extract, and while it does cost more than imitation, the flavor and quality provides amazing results in your baked goods.
Spices
Sure, your favorite baker probably has cinnamon already, so go beyond that with a couple of my favorites. Or go with the gift that keeps giving, a spice subscription!
Baking gift baskets
Why not combine a few ideas into a lovely personalized gift basket? Include an array of flours, cookie cutters, or mini spatulas.
The baker in your life will love the thought and care you put into gifting this season!
About Megan
I learned how to cook by exploring seasonal ingredients, and you can too! Meal time shouldn’t be stressful or complicated, and with fresh ingredients and easy methods, I’m here to help you enjoy the time spent in the kitchen. Read more…