Is there anything as pleasant in a home as the aroma of baked goods? The process of turning simple ingredients into deliciously sweet or savory treats is magical. If the art of baking entices you, whether you want to pursue it as a hobby or a career, there are a few essential tools you should add to your kitchen.
A Stand Mixer
This is a machine that takes over for your aching arm. A good stand mixer will have a powerful motor with variable speeds and an assortment of attachments for different mixes.
Spatulas
It’s always a good idea to have a set of spatulas on-hand. They’re great for mixing and scraping. Spatulas often vary in flexibility or rigidity and come in different shapes and lengths. Pick out a few different ones for different purposes.
Measuring Cups and Spoons
Correct measurements are essential to consistent results. Invest in one and/or a set of measuring cups and a set of measuring spoons to get the right results every time.
Whisk
A very useful tool to have for mixing liquids, beating eggs, and sifting flour.
Mixing Bowls
A set of mixing bowls can help you pull your recipe together in an organized way. Mix your dry ingredients in one bowl and your wet ingredients in another according to your recipe. Separate dough into different bowls and leave them to rise. Store filling in a small bowl to chill in the refrigerator. It’s easy to see why it’s important to have at least two good mixing bowls (preferably more) to be an organized and efficient baker.
Cookie Sheet
At least one good cookie sheet that won't warp or burn the bottom of your baked goods is well worth the investment. It is useful for making cookies obviously, but also small pizzas, croissants, biscuits, roasted or baked vegetables, fries, and chips.
An Assortment of Baking Pans and Dishes
To make brownies, cakes, loaves of bread, cupcakes, muffins, tarts, quiches, pies, etc., you will need a collection of pans and dishes. You may want to start with a muffin tin, an 8 x 8 square pan or dish, and a round spring-form pan. These are the most versatile basics, but eventually, you will want to invest in pans and dishes that suit your needs and style of baking.
Potholders
After a dish has been baking at a couple hundred degrees for several minutes, you will be glad you purchased two or three potholders to protect your hands and countertops.
Rolling Pin
This is an important tool for rolling out dough for pies, bread, and cookies.
Basic Ingredients
It’s always good to keep flour, granulated sugar, and brown sugar, salt, baking soda, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Additionally, prepare for baking projects by buying fresh eggs, milk, and butter. Buy other ingredients based on the type of items you like to bake. For pies, stock up on more spices like nutmeg and allspice. For cakes, buy cake flour, and more flavored extracts. If you like to bake bread, make sure to get yeast, wheat flour, spices, and seeds.
