Whether you're whipping up a Victoria sponge for a birthday or some fluffy scones and jam for your afternoon tea, having the right tools can make all the difference to your baked goods.
That's why we've pulled together a checklist of the essential baking equipment every home baker should have in their kitchen, with tried and tested product recommendations from expert chef Peter Sidwell. From zesters to cake display stands, we'll also walk you through the nice-to-have tools that make the baking process easier and quicker.
Contents
Must-have baking equipment
Whether you’re a first-time baker searching for the necessities or a baking enthusiast looking to fill the gaps in their existing collection, we’ve carefully selected a list of must-have tools with help from Peter Sidwell.
1. Round cake tin
A round cake tin is a fundamental tool for any baker, providing the base for creating perfectly-shaped cakes.
Peter recommends: "Choosing a tin with a detachable base makes removing your cake easier, without damaging the shape or bits of sponge sticking to the tin. Just remember to allow your bake to cool for 30 minutes before releasing it. As the cake cools, it will contract and pull away from the sides of the tin, making it much simpler to remove."
Recommended product: MasterClass Set of 3 Non-Stick Spring Form Cake Pan Bundle
These MasterClass round baking tins are an excellent choice for anyone looking for high quality and durability. The commercial-grade carbon steel with a non-stick coating guarantees perfectly formed cakes, time and time again.
And they aren't just for cakes; from sponges to cheesecakes, these tins can be used for a wide range of treats!
Peter says, "a loose-bottom tin is a must-have for all cake bakers and having a set is really useful — especially if you want to create show-stopping layered cakes!"
2. Loaf tin
Loaf tins are not limited to bread-making only. They're also perfect for creating loaf-shaped bakes like banana bread and pound cake. And our Pistachio and Cardamom Loaf Cake, of course!
Recommended product: MasterClass Smart Stack Non-Stick 2lb Loaf Tin
With this MasterClass loaf tin, you'll be able to enjoy hassle-free storage thanks to the innovative stack design. You can store it either upright or nested inside other pieces from the collection, maximising your precious cupboard and shelf space. The flat lip also ensures the tin can be stored vertically and doubles as a handle, making it easy to transport and remove from the oven.
3. Rectangle baking tin
A rectangle baking tray is a versatile must-have in the kitchen. Brownies, traybakes, and cheesecake are just some of the treats you can make! The shape of the pan also makes it easy to slice into neat portions.
Recommended product: MasterClass Non-Stick Rectangular Deep Pan
It's best to go for a non-stick baking tin — like this Masterclass one — to ensure your bake comes out in one piece. And with a generous depth of five centimetres, it's ideal for roasting as well as baking. Perfect for your brownies and your crispy roast potatoes!
4. Muffin pan
Whether you're planning to impress at a birthday party with a batch of beautifully decorated cupcakes or simply want to enjoy the aroma of freshly baked muffins, a muffin tin is undoubtedly a baking essential.
You can also use a muffin pan to make Yorkshire puddings — a classic and delicious side dish that complements any roast dinner, especially when served with plenty of gravy.
Or, you could use your tin to try out our healthy muffins recipe. They're filled with goodness and are a great way to start the day!
Recommended product: MasterClass Non-Stick American Muffin Pan
This MasterClass muffin pan is designed with extra-deep sides, making it effortless to bake tall
and fluffy cakes with a perfectly rounded top.
5. Spatula
A spatula is an excellent tool for mixing and blending ingredients, especially folding in delicate ingredients like whipped cream or egg whites. And leftover cake mix on the side of your mixing bowl becomes a thing of the past.
Recommended product: KitchenCraft Flexible Spoon Shaped Rubber Spatula
The KitchenCraft rubber spatula spoon is a versatile kitchen tool that makes beating up batter a breeze.
And Peter Sidwell agrees: "When it comes to baking, I can't do without a flexible spoon, and this KitchenCraft tool is like having three essentials in one! The curved bowl mixes and scoops like a spoon, the flexible edge bends to the shape of bowls to scrape out ingredients, and the flat side is ideal for spreading frostings and fillings."
6. Wooden spoon
No kitchen is complete without a traditional wooden spoon! From folding flour into batter to stirring sauces, it's useful for various baking tasks.
Recommended product: KitchenCraft Beech Wood Spoon
This spoon is made of robust beechwood, which is especially strong and splinter-resistant, meaning it's sure to last for years to come. Plus, it has a soft and smooth surface, so unlike metal utensils, they're less likely to scratch your non-stick pans and baking trays.
To learn how to clean your wooden spoons to keep them in top condition, check out our step-by-step guide on how to deep clean your kitchen.
7. Handheld whisk
If you're new to baking, a handheld whisk can be a cost-effective alternative to a stand mixer, and it can help you effortlessly mix your way to light and airy sponge cakes.
Recommended product: MasterClass Smart Space Stainless Steel Handheld Cooking Whisk
Peter explains why this collapsible whisk may be the best option if you're short on storage space: "As a beginner, it can be overwhelming to accumulate lots of tools that take up precious counter and storage space. Thankfully, the stainless steel head of this MasterClass whisk simply pushes back into the handle, making it easy to store away in crowded drawers or cupboards. Ideal for students or people with smaller kitchens."
Plus, with its attractive and practical design, you can even hang it up on a utensil rack to save even more room.
8. Kitchen Scales
Peter says: "The foundation of successful baking is accuracy and precision, and kitchen scales can help with that. While it is possible to eyeball your ingredients once you get the hang of it, precise measuring is essential for beginners to produce reliable results from their favourite recipes."
Recommended product: Taylor Pro Digital Dry / Liquid Cooking Scales with Touchless Tare
"These sleek Taylor scales are simple to use, don't take up much space and are easy to wipe clean," explains Peter. "The touchless tare reset feature is a massive bonus when you're covered in flour or just holding something else. All you need to do is wave your hand over the built-in sensor to send the reading back to zero."
To learn more, check out our guide to the 10 best kitchen scales.
9. Cooling rack
After baking, it's crucial to cool your baked goods evenly and quickly to avoid sogginess or loss of shape. A cooling rack elevates your baked goods, allowing air to circulate underneath and around them, resulting in even cooling. This is especially important for bakes like cookies, cakes, and bread, which can continue to bake and become overcooked if left to cool on a flat surface.
Recommended product: MasterClass Non-Stick Cooling Tray
This MasterClass cooling tray ticks a lot of boxes: the strong carbon steel material easily handles heavy cakes, while the mesh supports smaller items. And you'll be glad to know the non-stick coating prevents cake from sticking to your rack, so washing up is super easy!
10. Rolling pin
Whether you're making pie crusts, cookies, or bread, a rolling pin provides the control you need to evenly flatten dough or pastry, creating the perfect consistency for your baked goods. That's why having one in your kitchen cupboard is a good idea.
Recommended product: MasterClass Quarry Marble Rolling Pin and Stand
"A good rolling pin with a nice weight is helpful as it'll do some of the work for you, taking the strain out of rolling," says Peter. "I recommend this MasterClass rolling pin and stand; the tool is carefully balanced, making it easy to manoeuvre while providing enough pressure to flatten dough efficiently."
"The marble material is also silky smooth and cool to the touch, making it ideal for rolling pastry and preventing it from warming up and sticking to the surface."
And not only does it give high-quality results for your bakes — it's a beautiful addition to any kitchen with its elegant design and stand, which provides a stylish display for your rolling pin when not in use.
11. Measuring jug
Baking recipes often include milk, eggs, and vegetable oil, so having a measuring jug is always helpful for getting the quantities right. Other recipes like pancakes, gravy, and soup also call for a measuring jug, so it's good to have one to hand.
Recommended product: KitchenAid Set of 3 Measuring Jugs
Peter recommends KitchenAid measuring jugs: "I like this set of measuring jugs as the different sizes are perfect for all kinds of recipes. The non-slip handles and integrated spouts make pouring mess-free, and the measurement markings are really clear and easy to read. Plus, they nest together so I can pop them in the cupboard without taking up too much space."
12. Mixing bowls
Whether you're mixing together wet ingredients for a cake batter or stirring up dry ingredients for a batch of cookies, a mixing bowl is, of course, a baking essential. Most recipes require a couple of mixing bowls, especially those that involve separating dry and wet ingredients, so it's best to have at least two.
"It's worth opting for bowls that can be safely used over simmering water for melting chocolate or butter," says Peter. "Stainless steel or glass are excellent choices due to their exceptional heat conductivity."
Recommended product: MasterClass Stainless Steel Brass Finish 24cm Mixing Bowl
This stunning brass-finished mixing bowl is not only functional but also adds a touch of glamour to your kitchen. Peter agrees: "Aside from using it as a mixing bowl, I love serving up salads and pasta with this bowl to my guests; it complements any table spread!"
"The stainless steel material is an excellent conductor of heat, so melting chocolate is quick and efficient every time. Plus, its large size is ideal for mixing, proving, and fermenting bread dough."
13. Sieve
A sieve or sifter is useful for dry ingredients like flour and cocoa powder to remove any lumps and ensure a smooth texture. This is especially important in sponge cake, as lumps can cause the batter to be uneven and not rise in the oven, resulting in a dense and heavy bake.
Recommended product: KitchenAid Strainer Stainless Steel Mesh Sieve
This KitchenAid sieve is a great tool to have in your baking toolkit. It sifts flour to lump-free perfection, and the lip ensures it stays in place in your mixing bowl, making it easy to use with just one hand.
The stainless steel basket with fine mesh holes also allows liquid to pass through while capturing any clumps. Ideal for custards or macarons, which require a smooth texture.
14. Baking sheets
Baking sheets can be a real timesaver when it comes to washing up; they prevent excess batter or oils from getting onto your pan. They also keep your baked goods from sticking, which is especially important when working with delicate items like meringues to prevent breakage.
Recommended product: KitchenCraft Non-Stick Large Baking Sheet
If you're looking to live a more sustainable lifestyle, this reusable baking sheet is a game-changer. It can be used around 1,000 times, making it an eco-friendly and cost-effective solution for any home chef! Say goodbye to throwing out reams of traditional greaseproof paper or using messy oils; the durable non-stick surface saves you the hassle.
It's also dishwasher friendly and can be rolled up for easy storage. What's not to love?
15. Cake cases
Cupcakes are classic baked goods that can bring joy to any occasion, and if you want to try creating some at home, you'll need some cake cases. They ensure your cupcakes cook evenly and make for easy cleanup — your bakes won't stick to your baking tin!
Recommended product: KitchenCraft 250 Assorted Paper Cake Cases
Whether you're baking with your children or hosting a party, these KitchenCraft cake cakes will elevate your cupcakes with their colourful, fluted designs. Not only are they aesthetically pleasing, but they're also practical with a greaseproof lining, ensuring easy cupcake removal without leaving any residue behind.
If you're planning a BBQ, cupcakes make for excellent finger food that your guests can tuck into, and these cases will add a pop of colour to your grazing board!
16. Cake storage tin
After putting in all the effort and time to bake a scrumptious dessert, you'll want it to remain fresh and delicious for as long as possible. That's if you've managed to resist eating it all in one go!
A storage container can come in handy; it provides an airtight seal to help preserve the freshness and flavour of your baked goods.
Recommended product: KitchenCraft Lovello Textured Latte Cream Cake Storage Tin
Cakes are a treat to be savoured, and this cake tin with a matching lid provides a secure seal to keep them fluffy and moist for longer. The deep yet compact design has plenty of space for large bakes while fitting neatly on counters or shelves.
And the retro-modern design means this tin is both stylish and practical.
To learn more about keeping your food fresher for longer, read our food storage guide on choosing the best meal prep container.
Nice-to-have baking equipment
1. Zester
Although a zester will certainly make zesting a lemon easier, it's not technically needed. You could use a vegetable peeler to remove the outer layer before finely chopping the peel into small pieces with a sharp knife.
However, a zester may be a worthwhile purchase if you want to make the task quicker and more efficient.
Recommended product: MasterClass Etched Stainless Steel Zester
"I love this kitchen tool", says Peter. "Not only do I use it frequently when cooking, but I also bring it to the table to grate parmesan cheese. This zester is a must-have for any baker because it allows you to effortlessly extract all of the flavorful zest from lemons and add it to your mixture, ensuring you get plenty of flavour." Perfect for your lemon drizzle cake!
2. Vegetable chopper
A vegetable chopper can definitely make things easier when baking, but it's not a must-have tool. You can still accomplish many baking tasks without it — mixing batter by hand or with a hand mixer and chopping nuts with a knife are great alternatives. However, if you're short on time, a food processor can certainly speed up the baking process.
Recommended product: Chef'n VeggiChop™ Vegetable Chopper
Peter explains why the Chef'n VeggiChop™ Chopper is a great tool to have: "This vegetable chopper effortlessly cuts large pieces of fruit, vegetables, nuts, and even ice, all without the need for electricity! I like to use it for chopping up carrots for carrot cake and nuts for walnut bread."
3. Ramekins
Ramekins are small dishes that are useful for baking individual portions. Perfect for dinner parties!
Recommended product: KitchenCraft Set of 4 Ceramic Ramekins
Peter says: "These stoneware ramekins from the KitchenCraft Classic Collection are not only ideal for baking individual crème brûlée and potted salmon fillet, but their stylish, vintage-inspired design makes them great for serving olives and nibbles. And they can be served straight from the oven to the table."
4. Display stands
A cake display stand is an excellent tool for showing off your cake; it adds a touch of elegance to your presentation and elevates your bake, making it more of a centrepiece. It's a great way to create a stunning focal point for your dessert table, whether you're hosting a party or just enjoying a special treat at home.
Recommended product: KitchenCraft Classic Collection Ceramic Cake Stand With Glass Dome
"I often use this cake stand at home as it's the perfect way to present a cake while preserving its freshness," says Peter. "It comes with a glass dome lid which protects from flies while leaving your cake visible for everyone to see."
5. Piping tools
Including piping tools in your baking toolkit is an excellent idea, as they enable you to produce stunning designs and patterns on your baked treats. Whether you want to create intricate flowers on your cupcakes or swirls on your Victoria sponge, piping tools can help turn even the simplest dessert into a work of art!
Recommended product: KitchenCraft Sweetly Does It Plastic Piping Set
Peter says: "This piping set is a great product for beginner bakers who want to try their hand at cake decorating and elevate their creations to the next level. It includes a large icing bag, eight nozzles with decorative tips, and a coupler for easy nozzle switching — everything you need to get started!"
And it's not as difficult as you think; just screw a nozzle onto the easy-switch coupler and fill the bag. Plus, the bag is washable, so you can use it again and again.
To get started with piping, check out our guide on how to decorate a cake.
Elevate your bakes with baking equipment from CookServeEnjoy
Whether you're searching for piping tools to ice buttercream swirls onto your cupcakes or new round cake tins to create a stunning layered cake, ensuring you have all the essential tools can take your baking game to the next level. You'll be whipping up delicious treats in no time!
Shop baking tins, scales, whisks, mixing bowls, sieves and sifters, and more at CookServeEnjoy today.