Essential Tools and Techniques Every Home Baker Should Know
Baking is a skill that requires a little bit of both science and art. Whether you’re an avid baker or just starting out, it’s important to know the right tools for the job.
A kitchen scale is a must, as measuring by weight is more accurate than using dry measuring cups. A food peeler is also helpful, as it allows you to quickly and easily peel vegetables and fruits.
Kitchen Scale
Baking is a precision art, so having the right tools is essential. Adding a kitchen scale to your arsenal will ensure that every ingredient is measured accurately.
Weighing ingredients by weight (in grams or ounces) is much more accurate than measuring cups or spoons, particularly for dry ingredients like flour and salt that can be affected by how they’re scooped. Consistent measurements mean consistent results.
Our favorite digital kitchen scale is lightweight and compact, and has an easy-to-use interface with just two buttons. It can be calibrated and switch between units of measurement with the press of a button, making it a convenient choice for bakers.
Measuring Cups and Spoons
Whether using cups, fluid ounces or grams, accurate measurements are essential for baking success. Learn the basics of common baking measurements and apply them to your recipes for consistent results.
Dry and liquid measuring cups are each designed for a specific purpose, and it is important to use the correct tool for each type of ingredient. Dry measuring cups have volume measurements printed on them, while liquid measuring cups have pouring spouts.
Digital Scale
A digital scale is a must-have baking tool for consistency. Unlike measuring cups, which can vary in size between shops and countries (one American-made measuring cup is different in volume from a British one), digital scales have consistent measurements.
Look for a model that easily toggles between ounces and grams and can weigh to the 0.1-gram increments most bakers prefer. This level of precision is more accurate than you can get with a standard kitchen scale.
Mixing Bowls
No baker’s kitchen is complete without a set of mixing bowls. These versatile tools are essential for marinating ingredients, whipping batter, and storing prepared dough (in the fridge).
Look for bowls that have lids to reduce clutter in the pantry and also feature markings for liquid measurements. A rounded bottom is also helpful for smoothly whisking and stirring. Spatulas and a whisk are also must-haves for scraping the sides of bowls, spreading frosting, and loosening cakes and bar cookies from their pans.
Baking Sheets
The Baking Sheet is an essential tool for every home baker, but there are many different options on the market. The best baking sheets are lightweight, easy to clean and cook evenly.
Also known as cookie sheets or jelly roll pans, these flat rectangular baking trays are used for cookies and other baked treats and even some dinner recipes. The best baking sheets have excellent heat distribution capabilities to avoid hot spots and ensure a crispy texture.
Wire Rack
A wire rack, also known as a cooling rack, lets air circulate around your baked goods, keeping them from getting soggy and helping them cool evenly. It can also be used for other kitchen tasks, such as resting fried foods and meats or dusting pastries with powdered sugar.
When shopping for a wire rack, be sure to consider its size and design. Look for racks that have a grid pattern rather than parallel bars straight across. Grid lines allow for more versatility and make it easier to support thinner items like cookies.
Baking Mat
A silicone baking mat, also called a Silpat, replaces the need for parchment paper or foil and helps prevent baked goods from sticking to pans. It can withstand high temperatures and is easy to clean.
A pastry mat helps bakers roll out doughs, and this version includes printed guides to measure the correct size of crust for a pie or tart. It’s also a great way to make sure the dough is evenly distributed in the oven.
Silicone Spatulas
A spatula is a necessary tool for transferring fresh-out-of-the-oven cookies and cakes to cooling racks. It’s also handy for scraping the sides of mixing bowls and getting at all corners of dense doughs and batters.
This silicone set has a durable, heat-resistant construction and can handle high temperatures. The handles are made from acacia wood and are beautiful, while the working end is flexible enough for delicate work and sturdy enough for heavier foods.
Baking Sheets
A Baking Sheet is one of the most essential tools for any home baker. It is a versatile piece of cookware that can be used to prepare and bake a wide variety of recipes.
Baking sheets come in a range of standardized sizes. Rimmed baking sheets have raised edges that prevent toppings or batter from spilling over into the oven. These edges also catch any drippings from savory foods like roasted vegetables or meats.
