Published on 16th September, 2023

Are you a beginner baker looking to stock up your kitchen with the essential tools? Baking is a fun and rewarding hobby, but it can be overwhelming when you are just starting out. In this guide, we will outline the must-have baking tools to help you get started on your baking journey.

MEASURING TOOLS: THE PRECISE FOUNDATION

1. Digital Kitchen Scale

A digital weighing scale is a fundamental tool in baking that ensures accuracy, consistency and reliability in recipes. With a digital scale, an ounce is always an ounce, and a gram is always a gram.

Digital scales are typically user friendly and easy to read. Simply place your bowl on the scale and start weighing your ingredients. The tare function allows you to zero out the weight of the container, so you can add ingredients sequentially without having to do any manual calculations.

2. Measuring Cups and Spoons

Accurate measurements are the bedrock of successful baking. Investing in a set of quality measuring cups and spoons will ensure that your ingredients are proportioned just right, leading to consistent and delicious bakes.

I prefer to use measuring spoons when weighing small portions of dry ingredients such as baking powder and salt. Measuring cups are useful when weighing wet ingredients like milk and oil.

MIXING TOOLS: WHERE MAGIC UNFOLDS

3. Mixing Bowls

Choose a range of different sizes to accommodate different recipes. They can be purchased individually or a as set. Stainless steel bowls are not only durable but also resistant to stains. Whereas glass bowls offer the advantage of visibility, allowing you to monitor the texture and consistency of the batter as you mix.

4. Stand Mixer

A stand mixer is the cornerstone of any well-equipped kitchen. The key advantage of a stand mixer lies in its hand free operation, freeing you to attend other tasks while it works its magic. This is especially useful for recipes that require lengthy mixing durations such as bread or pizza dough, that benefit from prolonged kneading.

Moreover, stand mixers are versatile multitaskers with a powerful motor and attachments which streamline the process of mixing, kneading, and whipping.

5. Hand Mixer

This compact device excels at tasks that require a lighter touch and precise control. Whipping cream, beating egg whites to stiff peaks and mixing delicate batters are where the hand mixer shines.

Its mobility, ease of use and storage spaces makes it an ideal choice for beginners. Furthermore, they are great for recipes that call for intermittent mixing. 

Simply stated, if you are short on space and just starting out your baking journey, a hand mixer is your best choice. However, if you handle heavy baking projects and can afford it, a stand mixer is a must-have. And if you are indecisive like me, go for both!

6. Whisk

A handheld whisk is very effective in blending dry ingredients like flour, baking powder and cocoa powder ensuring an even distribution throughout the batter.

They are simple, easy to use and clean. They do not require electricity making them convenient.

Remember, while a whisk is resourceful, there are times where an electric mixer is more efficient. It is about choosing the right tool for the job based on the recipe requirements.

7. Spatula

Picture your spatula as the trusty sidekick in your baking. With its flexible, flat blade, its designed for seamless mixing, folding and scraping. When you are combining ingredients mainly in delicate recipes like soufflé or meringues, it ensures a gentle touch leaving no batter behind.

It is also useful when transferring butter to your cake pans and guarantees that your cakes are evenly spread for that perfect rise and texture.

8. Oven Thermometer 

An oven thermometer is an investment that ensures baking is done at the intended temperature. This level of precision is crucial for delicate cakes and pastries.

Using an oven thermometer to better understand your oven actual performance allows you to bake more accurately and efficiently. Additionally, an oven thermometer will boost your confidence while baking.

An oven thermometer is also versatile because it can be used for different cooking techniques including roasting and broiling that require precise temperature control.

BAKING PANS: Shaping your creations

There are several types of pans that are essential for creating mouth-watering treats. Non-stick options simplify the process and make for easy clean up, ensuring that your creations slide effortlessly out of the pan.

9. Cake Pans

Cake pans come in a various shapes and sizes allowing for an endless array of baking possibilities. With the right cake pan, you can create beautifully layered cakes that are sure to impress.

I recommend getting the following cake pans:

• 8'' Round Pan

• 6'' Round Pan

• Rectangular Pan (13x9x2 inch)

• Square Pan (8x8 inch)

Remember to always prepare your pans appropriately, whether that means greasing and flouring or using parchment paper, to ensure your cake releases easily and looks appealing.

10. Muffin Pan

Muffins typically have six or twelve wells allowing you to bake multiple muffins at once. Depending on the size of your oven, choose either the twelve count or twenty four count pan.

11. Loaf Pan

These pans are an indispensable tool for baking bread and cakes in loaf form. Whether you are baking a classic banana bread or a marble cake, a loaf pan is the perfect vessel to bake it in. This type of pan ensures that your loaf bakes evenly and holds its shape, resulting in a beautifully risen and wonderfully baked product.

Overall, having a diverse set of baking pans in your kitchen arsenal is essential for producing delectable baked goods. Whether you are baking cakes, cupcakes or loaves, the right pan can make all the difference in achieving the perfect texture, shape and overall presentation of your treats. So, stock up these essential baking pans to elevate your baking game and wow your friends and family with your tasty treats.

12. Pastry Brush

 A pastry brush may seem like a small tool but its role in baking is paramount. Use it to apply egg washes, melted butter or glazes to your baked goods, enhancing their appearance, flavour, and texture.

Choose brushes with soft bristles that hold liquid well for even distribution. You can also use a pastry brush to add sugar syrup to your sponges.

Conclusion

As you embark on your baking journey, remember that the right tools can make all the difference. By arming yourself with these tools, you'll be on your way to baking perfection. Happy baking!