Whether you're a seasoned baker or just beginning your journey into the world of baking, having the right tools in your kitchen can make all the difference. We often focus on the heavy hitters like stand mixers and oven thermometers, but there are a handful of lesser-known tools that can make your baking endeavors much easier. Here are five underestimated baking tools that every kitchen needs.
1. Dough scraper
A dough scraper, also known as a bench scraper, is one of the best baking tools for home bakers. It's affordable, easy to use, and incredibly versatile. You can use it to cut dough, scrape off excess flour or dough from your work surface, and even lift delicate dough onto a baking sheet.
2. Pastry brush
You might think a pastry brush is only useful for brushing on egg washes, but it's actually one of the must-have kitchen tools for any baker. You can use it to grease your baking pans, brush syrup onto cakes, or dust off excess flour from your pastries. It's also a great tool for applying glazes and sauces. Look for a high-quality pastry brush that can withstand high temperatures and is easy to clean.
3. Flour sifter
A flour sifter is another underestimated kitchen tool. Even if your recipe doesn't specifically call for sifted flour, using this tool can ensure that your flour is lump-free and aerated, leading to lighter, more consistent baked goods. It's one of the essential baking tools for cakes and other delicate pastries.
4. Silicone baking mat
Silicone baking mats are a great alternative to parchment paper or greasing your baking sheets. They're non-stick, reusable, and easy to clean. Plus, they provide a consistent baking surface and can withstand high temperatures, making them one of the best baking tools 2022 has to offer.
5. Pie weights
Last but not least, pie weights are one of the unique baking tools that can greatly improve your pie-baking experience. They prevent your pie crust from bubbling up or shrinking during baking, ensuring that you end up with a perfectly flat crust ready for your filling.
Here's a quick recap of these tools and their uses:
Remember, while expensive, high-end tools can be nice to have, the most important thing is to find tools that are practical and that you'll actually use. These five underrated tools are affordable, useful, and can make your baking easier and more enjoyable.
