Knead Some Gifts? 10 Must Have Gifts For Bakers
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Looking for the best gifts for bakers this holiday season or special occasions throughout the year? You’re in the right place! I’ve compiled a list of 10 must-have baking gifts for the everyday baker, perfect for those who are passionate about baking. Check out our collection to find the perfect gift.
Baking is more than making all types of baked goods for many baking enthusiasts; it’s a creative hobby requiring certain tools and equipment to get the job done. That’s why I’m here to help you out!
Trust me, these kitchen tools make great gifts for bakers and won’t just make their baking experience even more awesome, but also show how much you appreciate those yummy treats they whip up.
Cookie scoops
Gifting a set of cookie scoops is always appreciated. They are handy tools for any baker, ensuring perfectly portioned cookies every time. They can effortlessly fill muffin liners with batter, shape meatballs with ease and much more. You can even use cookie scoops to measure ingredients accurately.
High-quality baking sheets
Baking sheets are a kitchen staple that prove to be a versatile piece of equipment. Look for heavy-duty rimmed sheets that won’t warp under high heat and will ensure there are no more unevenly cooked treats.
I recommend having baking sheets in various sizes to tackle different recipes, whether a small batch of cookies, a big sheet cake or even sheet-pan dinners. The right-sized sheet on hand makes life so much easier.
Baking pans
Bakers need many types of baking pans, depending on what they are baking. A fancy bundt pan is always an appreciated gift, but every baker needs the basic pans for cakes, pies, muffins and bread. These are the pans that I keep in my cupboards.
- 8-inch round cake pans. I use these pans for cakes, rolls and certain bread recipes. Buy two of these pans to make classic layer cakes.
- 9-inch pie plate. Glass pie plates are better for baking pies. Buy a shallow plate for cream pies and a deep dish for fruit pies.
- 9 by 5-inch bread pan. These pans are perfect for most bread recipes, but I also use them to bake a meatloaf or a pound cake. Opt for metal pans for better baking.
- 13 by 9-inch baking pan. A classic-sized pan for cakes, bar cookies, brownies, casseroles and so much more.
- 12 cup muffin pan. Bake muffins, cupcakes and cookie cups in this pan. And it’s perfect for mini tarts, gratins and egg cups. The list is endless.
Mixers
A stand mixer is a game-changer for any baker; it can do the work a handheld mixer can’t. My professional-style KitchenAid mixer is a powerhouse that makes whipping, kneading and mixing ingredients a breeze, saving time and effort. But, for small tasks, a small electric hand mixer will come in handy.
Digital kitchen scale
Bakers know that using a kitchen scale allows for more accurate measurements of ingredients, and many recipes are written in pounds, ounces, and grams for this very reason. I like how easy this digital scale is to use; you can easily zero out the weights, and it can weigh up to 22 pounds.
Silicone baking mats
Silicone baking mats are a baker’s best friend. They provide a non-stick surface that eliminates the need for parchment paper and ensures even baking. Plus, they’re eco-friendly and reusable, making them a sustainable choice. I use these mats for baking everything from chocolate chip cookies without brown sugar to Jimmy John’s bread and pastries. I also set pies on them to catch drips for an easy clean-up. You can even cut them to fit your various-sized baking sheets.
Quality baking tools
Every baker needs high-quality baking tools to ensure the success of their recipes. I personally rely on these tools for most of my baking recipes and often find that I have duplicates of some items because I use them so frequently.
- Silicone spatulas stand up to high heat and are used for stirring, mixing and scraping.
- A bench scraper comes in handy for moving food, cutting cookie bars and helping to ice cakes smooth.
- Pastry brushes are a baker’s friend from brushing on an egg wash to helping grease an intricate bundt pan.
- A set of measuring spoons and cups is necessary for almost all recipes to get the correct measurement of ingredients.
Pastry bags and piping tips
Piping bags are not just for cake decorators. They are useful to add an extra flourish to many baked goods, like a swirl of whipped cream topping on pastries for an elegant touch or to fill pasta shells, deviled eggs or pipe macarons. A piping bag and star tips are all a baker needs.
Rolling pin
A sturdy rolling pin is essential for rolling out dough for pies, cookies and pastries. There are different types, but I prefer this French rolling pin with tapered ends, making it easy to grip and roll the dough. Your other option is a straight rolling pin with handles.
Another awesome gift choice would be embossed rolling pins – they have a textured surface with different patterns and designs. Bakers can create decorative patterns on dough for cookies, biscuits, fondant, pasta and other baked goods. So pretty!
While there are many rolling pin substitutes that can be used for baking, it’s essential for every baker to have at least one high-quality and reliable rolling pin to use.
Oven thermometer
An oven thermometer is a small, affordable gift every baker can use to help determine the accuracy of the oven temperature. Just because the temperature on the oven says 350 F, that doesn’t mean that is the actual temperature inside. I keep this thermometer in the oven for a reliable way to monitor and adjust the temperature.
How To Choose The Right Gift For The Baker In Your Life
Not all bakers are the same. Some do it for fun, while some do it professionally. While bakers of different skill levels use the same basic tools and equipment, it’s still important to personalize your gift choice based on their experience, baking style, and needs.
The right gift can make their baking experience easier, more fun, and even more delicious. Here’s how you can pick the perfect gift for the baker in your life:
Know Their Skill Level
Choose gifts that will match their experience in the kitchen. Baking beginners might appreciate basics, while seasoned pros may enjoy advanced gadgets or specialty items. A well-thought-out gift that aligns with their expertise will show you truly understand their passion for baking.
Consider Their Baking Style
Next, think about their baking style. I observe what type of baked goods they like to bake most – is it cookies, cakes, and desserts? Or do they mostly make bread, pastries, or savory baked goods? This is an important basis for choosing your gift, so you can tailor it to their specific interests.
Choose Practical Gifts
While it’s fun to give aesthetic and charming gifts, many bakers I know appreciate practicality over looks. Consider gifting tools or appliances they will use regularly, not just occasionally or seasonally.
A practical gift not only shows thoughtfulness but also becomes a staple in their kitchen, making their baking processes easier and more enjoyable. Combining function with style, when possible, can be the ultimate win!
Durability Matters
Go for durable, high-quality materials that will last. Stainless steel, cast iron, and heavy-duty silicone items can withstand frequent use and provide long-term value. These materials are not only sturdy but also easy to clean, making them a favorite among busy bakers.
Plus, investing in high-quality tools means fewer replacements down the line, saving money and reducing waste. Gifts that combine durability with functionality will quickly become indispensable in any baker’s kitchen.
Upgrade the Essentials
Bakers often need to replace basic tools that wear out over time. Consider gifting high-end and durable essentials like a good rolling pin, pastry brush, or silicone spatulas. Choose versions with ergonomic designs or unique features that can make their baking experience more convenient.
For example, a rolling pin with adjustable thickness rings or heat-resistant silicone spatulas can make everyday tasks easier. Thoughtful upgrades to these staples show you’ve put extra care into your gift.
Gift Unique & Creative Items
Aside from the basics and essentials, sometimes it’s also ideal to surprise bakers with fun and creative gifts. Stand out with gifts that inspire creativity, like fun cookie cutters, personalized cake toppers, or unique baking pans that let bakers try new shapes and designs.
Novelty items like edible glitter, colorful piping bags, or a custom apron can also add a playful touch. These gifts not only spark joy but also encourage bakers to experiment and create memorable treats.
Try Gift Experiences
Speaking of unique gifts for bakers, don’t limit your ideas to just baking tools and equipment. Bakers will also appreciate gifts that they can use outside of the kitchen.
A baking class, a subscription to a baking magazine, or a ticket to a local bakery tour can provide inspiration and a hands-on experience that a physical gift might not. Even a beautifully curated coffee table book about baking or a foodie-themed travel experience could spark their imagination and passion. These thoughtful options show you’ve put extra care into choosing something meaningful and memorable.
Storage Solutions
Like cooks who use numerous kitchen gadgets, a baker’s kitchen is also filled with an array of tools and supplies for their craft. Help them keep their kitchen organized with stylish storage containers, rack organizers, or a drawer organizer for baking utensils.
Personalize It
Who doesn’t like receiving personalized gifts? Gifts with personal touches, like an engraved rolling pin, personalized recipe journal, custom apron, or a baking-themed name stamp for cookies or cakes, can make gifts for bakers extra special.
These thoughtful additions show that you’ve put time and care into selecting something just for them. Plus, personalized items often become cherished keepsakes that bakers will treasure and use for years, reminding them of you with every bake.
Essential kitchen tools are perfect for the cook, but if you have a friend or family member who is totally into baking, finding the ideal gifts for bakers that complement their baking passion can be a thoughtful gesture. Whether the baker is a seasoned pro or just starting their baking journey, these gifts will help them create even more delicious treats and make their time in the kitchen all the more enjoyable.
So, knead no more — choose the perfect gift and watch their culinary creativity flourish with all kinds of bakery deliciousness.
Portions of this article originally appeared on Food Drink Life.
