Every Beginner Baker Needs These 15 Kitchen Essentials

There’s no better way to unwind from the day than with a big glass of wine and the oh-so-therapeutic act of baking. Not only do you get the satisfaction of making something by hand, but at the end, you get to devour cupcakes! Whether you’re a beginner or you’ve just moved into your first apartment, you may be at a loss for what baking essentials to stock your kitchen with. That’s totally understandable, and we’re here to help. Below, find every tool you’ll need to get started, from the perfect cookie scoop to a thermometer that keeps your sweets from burning.

KitchenAid 5-Speed Ultra Power Hand Mixer

First things first — you need a powerful hand mixer. If you can’t afford to splurge on a KitchenAid Stand Mixer, your gateway into the appliance obsession is with this space-saving tool. Plus, you can even buy additional attachments for making things like bread dough.

Anthropologie Russet Measuring Cups

Obviously, you need measuring cups for accurate baking (no eyeballing here!). Look for a set that is even in size and has a flat top to make leveling your ingredients a breeze. It doesn’t hurt if they’re a beautiful rose gold color either.

IKEA ALLEHANDA Mixing Bowl With Lid

Sure, any old mixing bowl will do, but why not invest in a few to start your own collection? This mixing bowl from IKEA has a handy lid for chilling your cookie dough and a hole for mess-free mixing.

Select by Calphalon Five Piece Nonstick Bakeware Set

Instead of buying all of your bakeware separately, start out with a handy set that has everything you need. This one comes with two cake pans, loaf pan, cookie sheet, and muffin tin.

Nordic Ware Stackable Cooling Rack

Save precious space on your tiny counter with this affordable and convenient stackable option.

OXO Cookie Scoop

You may think that a cookie scoop is something you can skip out on, but you’re wrong. When you want each of your cookies to come out the same size and shape, and look bakery-worthy, you’ll be so glad you decided to get one.

Anthropologie Petalpress Rolling Pin

If pie dough or sugar cookies are in your future, a good heavy rolling pin is non-negotiable. And you might as well get one that doubles as a pretty piece of kitchen decor, right?

OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Food Scale

Baking is most accurate when you weigh your ingredients on a food scale. You also may encounter a recipe where everything is in grams, and this will *definitely* save your life.

Taylor Ambient Oven Temperature Thermometer

Believe it or not, our ovens are not always the temperature they say they are. Even being five degrees off can make or break those meringues, so an oven thermometer allows you to double check and calibrate accordingly.

Mason Cash Nine Inch Round Perfect Pie Dish

You never know when the urge to make a pie will strike, and you need to be prepared with a classic pie dish. Now, get to practicing your lattice skills.

Talisman Designs Adjustable Pie Crust Shield

Once you’ve mastered your pie crust application, you don’t want to ruin it by burning the outside edges. An adjustable shield that will keep your pie a perfect golden brown all over will make the whole process stress-free.

Silpat Non-Stick Silicone Baking Mat

Don’t question it; you NEED a Silpat. Chocolate chip cookies are no good when they’re stuck to your cookie sheet, and this will eliminate that issue altogether.

Traditional Flour Sifter

It may seem fussy, but some cakes require sifted flour. Get the not-so-exciting process over smoothly with a traditional flour sifter that doubles as a future family heirloom.

Anthropologie Petalpress Whisk

Whether you’re making whipped cream by hand or simple scrambled eggs, a good quality whisk needs a spot in your kitchen. Look for one with a weighted handle and evenly spaced wires for the proper incorporation of air.

Williams Sonoma Pastry Tools Collection

When you’re just starting on your baking journey, you want to make things as easy on yourself as possible. Invest in a set of pastry tools that will help you with confusing tasks like cutting butter into flour for biscuits and scones.