
Baking Essentials: Must-Have Tools for Your Home Kitchen
Nov 10, 2024
2 min read
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Baking can feel like an art form, but with the right tools, it becomes accessible to everyone. Whether you're just starting or looking to level up your home-baking game, these essentials will help you create perfect bakes every time. At Heart and Loaf, we use some tried-and-true tools every day, and we’re excited to share our favorites with you.
1. Digital Kitchen Scale
Why it’s essential: Precision matters in baking, and a digital scale helps you measure ingredients by weight rather than volume. This can lead to more consistent results and is especially important in recipes like sourdough where ratios are key. Our tip: Look for a scale that measures in grams and ounces for versatility.
2. Bench Scraper
Why it’s essential: A bench scraper isn’t just for cleaning – it’s invaluable for working with dough, cutting portions, and transferring ingredients from your countertop to a mixing bowl. Our tip: Use the bench scraper to shape dough or for easy cleanup after kneading.
3. Quality Mixing Bowls
Why it’s essential: Durable mixing bowls (stainless steel or glass) are a must for any baker. Different sizes let you handle everything from small batches to large dough mixes without worry. Our tip: Nesting bowls save space and can double as a serving set.
4. Dough Whisk (Danish Whisk)
Why it’s essential: This unique whisk is designed to work with thicker doughs, helping you mix everything evenly without overworking it. Our tip: It’s great for bread-making and even works well with heavier batters for cakes or cookies.
5. Oven Thermometer
Why it’s essential: Even high-quality ovens can have hot spots or vary in temperature. An oven thermometer lets you know the true temperature, so your bakes come out just right every time. Our tip: Position it in the center for the most accurate reading, and adjust your oven as needed.
6. Proofing Basket (Banneton)
Why it’s essential: Proofing baskets provide structure for your dough during its final rise and help develop that classic bakery look with beautiful flower patterns. Our tip: Sprinkle the basket with rice flour before adding dough to prevent sticking and achieve a lovely pattern on your bread.
7. Baking Stone or Dutch Oven
Why it’s essential: For a perfect crust, baking stones or Dutch ovens help retain and distribute heat evenly, which is ideal for bread baking. The added moisture inside a Dutch oven also helps create a gorgeous crust. Our tip: Preheat your stone or Dutch oven to ensure that lovely, crunchy bottom crust.
With these essentials in your kitchen, you’ll be well-equipped to make anything from a simple loaf to a bakery-worthy babka. Whether you're baking a batch of chocolate chip cookies or shaping a rustic loaf of sourdough, having reliable tools is the key to success. At Heart and Loaf, we believe that baking should be both fun and rewarding, and we hope these tools help make every bake a joy!