Baking is not only a way to make your own healthy foods at a lower cost than store bought products; it is an excellent creative outlet. Baking should be something that is fun and easy, not an overly complicated chore. You do not have to have the latest, most expensive kitchen equipment to bake successfully. However, a few essential items will make every project easier.
Non-stick Bakeware
Quality, non-stick bakeware is something that you should invest in. These products do not need to be the most expensive on the market and you can often find them on sale. Ekco is an excellent choice and is usually low in cost. You should also have several of each type of pan or cookie sheet you use, in various sizes. Your will find it much easier to bake larger quantities when you have additional bakeware for cooling one batch while another is cooking.
Whisks
Whisks do not need to be costly. Do have several sizes for beating eggs or mixing heavier ingredients. The smallest sizes work well when you need to mix spices in a small amount of liquid.
Blenders and Mixers
While mixing, blending and chopping can all be done by hand, your job will be faster and easier with these appliances. Do choose durable blenders or mixers if you frequently use heavy ingredients. Chopping up zucchini for bread can wear out a weak appliance.
Spatulas and Spoons
Not all ingredients can be mixed with a whisk or blender. Chocolate chips for cookies can turn into fragments if you over do it. This is where you need a strong mixing spoon. Spatulas should be available in a range of sizes as well. From scraping the sides of bowls to lifting cookies, you will find the need for different varieties. Remember, your non-stick bakeware can be damaged by metal spoons or spatulas. Do have some plastic or rubber-based utensils available for these products.
Mixing Bowls
You can never really have too many mixing bowls. These should also be available in a variety of sizes to make your baking easier and less messy. In addition to metal mixing bowls, try to have one or two that are microwave safe. A small bowl can be used to soften butter in the microwave to speed up the melting process.
A Good Oven
The definition of a good oven for baking does not mean an expensive one. It means one you can rely on. Most ovens tend to be slightly fast or slow, meaning that the actual temperature is higher or lower than the one you select. As long as you are familiar with your oven, you should be able to correctly determine the right temperature setting and time for your baked goods.
Baking also can also give you time with your family. Children usually love to help decorate cakes and cookies for special desserts or events. Just remember that it will get messy, relax and enjoy the experience.
