If you've spent any time scrolling through social media lately, you might have noticed that baking as a hobby is at an all-time high — and we are here for it. Not only does it keep you occupied, but it also yields all kinds of delicious rewards in the form of fresh bread and desserts.
Plus, unlike many other forms of cooking that require a bit more intuition, baking is fundamentally about following instructions, so most baked goods are fairly easy to make, even for beginners. Still, there are certain tools and kits you can use to make baking even easier. Whether you're a seasoned baker looking to elevate your artisanal bread-making skills or you're hoping to kick off a new hobby, the following items will help you take your baking game to the next level.
Video of the Day
Video of the Day
If you're suddenly baking cookies on the reg, consider adding cooling racks to your arsenal. They allow cookies to cool evenly, while also preventing the bottoms from overcooking on a hot tray, and they give you space to get the next batch in the oven. Plus, once you're done with this particular cooling rack, it lays flat for optimal storage.
For those who love to bake, but hate to clean. Silpat makes a whole slew of nonstick baking mats that replace the need for parchment paper, butter, grease, oils, and sprays and will cut your cleaning time in half.
From fancy cupcakes to flowery layer cakes, this 137-piece cake-decorating kit has everything you need to bake something sweet and pretty for a special occasion — or no occasion at all.
As advertised, this warming blanket is the best thing to happen for sliced bread. The secret is in the removable flax seed-filled pack: Simply pop it in the microwave, place it in the blanket's pouch with your bread, and wrap it all up for a just-out-of-the-oven taste (even if it's actually days later).
If you want to bake cupcakes in a more eco-friendly way, these reusable silicone liners are the ticket. Bonus tip: Fill these with your favorite egg scramble recipe and pop them in the oven at 350° for 20 minutes for a deliciously easy breakfast.
Whether you prefer doughnuts or bagels, (or both), you can make an impressive batch whenever the mood strikes with this dishwasher-safe pan set, complete with pastry bags and a spatula.
For anyone who believes crispy edges are the best parts of brownies, this pan is about to be a gamechanger. You can also use it to make treats like mini cakes and pizza squares.
Featuring two baking mats, eight piping tips, three piping bags, and one coupler, this macaron-baking kit makes it easy to enjoy one of life's yummiest pleasures any day of the week.
If baking is becoming more than a once-a-month activity, you may want to consider investing in a quality stand mixer. It'll save your arms from tirelessly whisking and actually enhance the flavor and quality of your batter. (Plus, it'll add a pop of fun to your countertop.)
Who needs Starbucks when you can make cake pops from the comfort of your own home? This handy device can help you whip up delicious cake pops at the touch of a button.
Milk and cookies just taste better this way.
This adjustable rolling pin evenly flattens dough to ensure uniform baking, whether you're whipping up pizza, pie crusts, tarts, or cookies.
Speaking of pie, this pan will make it so you never have to decide between cherry and key lime again. (It also works with cookie and brownie dough — just saying.)