For some, baking can be tricky; for some, it has become more than just a hobby rather than a form of therapy. Over the years, the baking must haves for every kitchen have taken a turn for the better. It’s more than just the measuring cups, spoons, and the handheld mixer. Essential baking tools can drastically up your game when preparing homemade goods that level up to bakery-style goods. This article will discuss some of the most helpful baking must-haves you may want to purchase before you embark on your next baking marathon.
Stand Mixer
First and foremost is a stand mixer. Although a handheld mixer does the job just as well, a stand mixer such as the Kitchen Aid is even better. A stand mixer enables you to prepare ingredients and get ready for the upcoming step hands-free. There’s no more fiddling around one-handed trying to measure that half cup of sugar; meanwhile, the egg yolks are splattering away because the mixer is not held in place. A stand mixer is a must-have that will not only make the baking process more accessible but also make for better results in the final product.
Oven Thermometer
Next up, we have an oven thermometer. Now, you may think that the dial on your oven sets the temperature just right; what is the need for an additional thermometer? So we’re here to tell you that one of the most important parts of baking is the oven setting and temperature. You can get it all right with the batter and dough; however, if the oven is not set at the proper temperature, you can say goodbye to all your hard work. An oven thermometer is placed in your oven and tells you exactly the temperature your oven is standing at, resulting in accurate baking time and the best possible results.
Digital Food Scale
A digital food scale is another baking must-have we think all bakers should have in their kitchens. A digital food scale is handy for measuring dough and dry ingredients. You may believe a measuring cup does the same job as a scale. Partly, you are right, but have you ever come across a recipe that calls for ounces, grams, or pounds instead of cups? Well, that’s exactly where a food scale comes into play. A food scale accurately measures dry ingredients in grams, pounds or ounces, giving you the perfect amount necessary for your recipe. Converting pounds, ounces, or grams into cups will yield different results.
Secondly, a food scale is a big help when it comes to handling dough. Measuring dough on a digital scale has upped the game for many. By measuring every ball of dough on a digital scale, you can easily make the same-sized breakfast buns with minimum effort! No more eye measuring is necessary.
Silicone Baking Mats
Silicone baking mats are a must-have for cookie lovers. They grip the bottom of the cookie, preventing it from spreading out and resulting in perfectly plump bakery-style cookies. These mats can be used for everything, from roasting veggies to baking cookies. They are easily washable with soap and water and are super versatile. There is no need to restock your parchment paper; silicone baking mats don’t run out and can be used repeatedly, saving you money and headaches.
Cooling Racks
Cooling racks are another baking must-have. They are pretty helpful in the kitchen and can be used for baking, frying, etc. Many recipes require the goods to “cool down” before serving or storing away. A cooling rack is a tray that helps in the cooling process and prevents sogginess. Although you may think it’s not necessary, a cooling rack is especially useful when you are in a hurry to store away cookies or cakes and need to speed up the cooling process.
Another use for a cooling rack is after frying doughnuts, chicken nuggets, or even French fries. Placing them on the cooling rack after being deep fried will help remove all the excess oils, resulting in a crispier, tastier product.
Flour Sifter
A flour sifter is the recipe for the fluffiest cake. Most cake recipes call for sifting the dry ingredients into the wet. Sifting the flour removes any clumps from the dry ingredients and adds pockets of air to the batter, making it fluffy and airy. Although you may think it’s an extra step, it takes your baking results to the next level.
Spatula Set
A spatula set is an essential baking must-have. Baking spatulas can be used to fold flour into wet ingredients and wipe the batter from the bowl into the baking pan. A spoon doesn’t get the job done in the same manner. Additionally, baking spatulas are super flexible and heat resistant.
Zester
Zesting oranges and lemons add a new flavour to your baked goods. Using a grater doesn’t get the job done, either. A zester is explicitly made to zest the peel of oranges and lemons.
Bench Scraper
A bench scraper, also sometimes known as a dough scraper, is a baking must-have for transferring chunks of dough from place to place. It is great for keeping your hands from getting sticky and for avoiding over-kneading the dough. A dough scraper can also be used as a jumbo knife to cut pieces of dough and separate them into sections.
Closing Thoughts – Baking Must Have
After reviewing all the baking must-haves, we hope that you have a clearer understanding of how to up your baking game and what additions you need to make to your kitchen. Many of these gadgets, such as silicone baking mats, spatulas, and the digital food scale, are versatile and can also be used for cooking. These additions to your kitchen will significantly make cooking and baking a more enjoyable and easy experience.
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