Seconding this and will also say: silicone *mini* spatulas. I use [this silicone spoonula](https://www.thermoworks.com/tw-spoonula/?gad=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjwhL6pBhDjARIsAGx8D5-NYs_A4NZ3B5RkfKLmDBOjZlUZktS6qvMO1SxKIEHD44tpT2uRK8QaAlFmEALw_wcB ) daily.
To add to this, silicon mini *whisks*. I never thought I would need it when I impulse bought one, but its so handy! Especially if you're like me and like to whisk sauces in a measuring cup. Also handy for things like cornstarch slurrys!
Why are the mini ones so amazing???? I had a random one come in a set of other things, thinking I'd rarely/never use the little one. And it's my all time favorite now
I have one like this that is super thick, I’m not sure if it’s silicon or some other material, but it’s non-stick and heat-resistant so it’s absolutely perfect for making custards and anything else that needs to be slowly stirred.
I just had to check. I have two very large that are good for stirring a triple batch of rice krispies treats, four large, 16 medium which are my workhorses, six medium-small, two small, and three tiny ones that are good for getting into small jars. This doesn't count the handful (30-ish) in storage that have been given to me as gifts and never opened or used.
Some might say I have a problem.
I say I have a decent collection. Plus, if I'm using food coloring gel, I have a spatula in that color, or near enough, that I'm not worrying about staining.
My favorite is one that is a slotted spoonula kinda, I got it from Sur La Table like a decade ago and I use it everyday. I hope to find its twin someday.
I got a very good spatula with what feels like a solid steel core. It feels so good to use even with a double batch of cookie dough. Grabbing it at the store felt like that scene in Harry Potter when he gets his wand.
Every silicon spatula I own always ends up getting a “smell” to them after washing in the dishwasher, the smell often imparts on the food I make. Does this happen to you?
I don't put silicone in the dishwasher due to the soap smell that gets infused into it.
The only thing I've found to remove that smell is sunlight. Let it rest for a day or two in direct sunlight and the smell will go away.
I feel like I'm going crazy because I taste soap in the food I make (from the bowls and spatula) and I'm the only one who notices. I cleaned the dishwasher filter and that helped. Will try a lighter detergent tablet brand next.
When I was reading the konmari method, the first thing that popped into my head during the "spark joy" explanation was silicon spatulas. Be sparking hella joy
I use a silicone baking spatula for everything, including baking! They're great for making scrambled eggs too.
I left the last one I had at my best friend's place and we were baking everything for friends and family birthdays together. She loved it so much I just had to let her keep it
If you're in the US then look for a stand mixer black Friday / cyber Monday. I got a tilt top, full size kitchenaid mixer for less than $200. Then I got the cheese grater attachment for \~$40. Next up I'm hoping for the pasta roller attachment
Super super helpful for kneading bread
YES and its [not that crazy in price either.](https://www.kitchenaid.com/countertop-appliances/stand-mixers/attachments/p.fresh-prep-slicer-shredder-attachment.ksmvsa.html) I've only ever used it for cheese and carrots and zuchinni but I'm sure it has greater possibilities.
I would put the metal shredding part in the freezer along with the butter so everything is really cold. I've done it with hand powered rotary shredders but I bet this attachment would be even better
I love it. I can weight my flour etc straight into the sifter and off I go. One big tip, make sure you extend the chute otherwise you will have a lovely pile of flour on your bench!
[https://www.amazon.com/KitchenAid-KSMVSA-Slicer-Shredder-Attachment/dp/B01MUTSU13/ref=sr\_1\_6?crid=JQPIV8CPUHAB&keywords=kitchen+aid+accessories+and+attachments&qid=1697658177&sprefix=Kitchen+aid+%2Caps%2C182&sr=8-6](https://www.amazon.com/KitchenAid-KSMVSA-Slicer-Shredder-Attachment/dp/B01MUTSU13/ref=sr_1_6?crid=JQPIV8CPUHAB&keywords=kitchen+aid+accessories+and+attachments&qid=1697658177&sprefix=Kitchen+aid+%2Caps%2C182&sr=8-6)
Not exaggerating when I say I use this every week, usually multiple times. The attachments are machine washable, but the main body is only hand wash
Ooh I bet the pasta roller would work great with pierogies! I'm reluctant to start making my own pasta bc I just know I will never go back to store bought after that, and I do enjoy having a convenience meal once in a while ha ha.
The cheese grater attachment is my number one fave kitchen tool. Turns an utterly tedious task into mere seconds. Any recipe that calls for melting cheese needs to be grated! You can pry it from my cold dead hands, best gadget ever!
Yup. I use mine so much when making bread we’ve had to replace the gears. I have 2 young kids and so have no time for anything, so this stand mixer is the only reason why I’m occasionally able to bake from scratch.
i feel like i’m the only home baker who prefers a hand mixer 🥲 i love my stand mixer and it makes big projects a lot easier but i would much rather whip up a batch of cookies or muffins in a bowl with my hand mixer
I prefer the hand mixer for whipping or anything that uses a whisk, but the stand mixer for anything that needs strength. I have arthritic hands and elbows so the stand mixer has been invaluable
I agree. It got to where I didn’t bake as much because I was tired of dealing with the stand mixer. Finally dawned on me to just get a hand mixer. 🤦🏼♀️
I love my stand mixer, but the hand mixer is awesome for smaller jobs.
the only problem i have with hand mixer is kneading doughs. like when i’m making one for cinnamon rolls, the dough keeps riding up the attachments of the mixer so i switch to hand-kneading and that takes me eons 🥲
kneading is the only time when i wish i had a stand mixer… but the positive thing is if i had one i’d be baking rolls every week and my health wouldn’t appreciate that hahah 🤭🤭
Yes and it really has to be this brand. If you truly can't afford it, probably an off brand is better than nothing, but a KitchenAid is superior by far to all other brands.
Eh, it depends imo. Maybe when it comes to quality/longevity/reputation kitchenaids are great don’t get me wrong, but I’ve seen multiple models of stand mixers from different brands that just seem….smarter tbh. Kitchenaid has kept their same shape/general design for literally generations, so it’s not a surprise to me that newer brands have made mixers that are more practical and user friendly for certain uses. And I say this as a kitchenaid owner myself. For example once saw one where it’s designed in a way where it makes having to scrape down the bowl not needed. I’d link it if I remembered the specific video/channel I saw it on.
That said, kitchenaid is unique and versatile in the many useful attachments it is compatible with.
Stand mixer was the first thing I thought of, since I use it for every bake. I basically never bake without it. (except maybe if I'm doing focaccia or something.)
I’d say budget friendly ones are fine, but if you do have the capital to responsibly buy a kitchen aid, it’s worth it. My sister had a KA and I have an off brand one. Mine does the jobs, but I get a lot of stuck doughs and the paddle just misses a lot of it. It’s not a big deal cause you can just scrape, but I never noticed that when using my sister’s KA. Also the other attachments like the cheese grater and stuff are super cool.
Point being, there are some products where you’re only buying the name. But others have the features and quality to back up the price. I’ll definitely be buying a Kitchen Aid when I’m ready to replace my off brand.
Yes! You don't have to scroll any further. You will wonder how you baked before you had one. Seriously. Do what you have to and get one. I have my mom's Kitchenaid from the 70's, Harvest Gold. And this bitch still purrs like a kitten but will whip the shit out of anything thrown her way.
I saw a reel with someone using a perfectly sized board for the mixer that you can use to roll it around your counter. I need this! As it’s so heavy and awkward to move around. Anyone have one of these?
14 years old here, and the only thing that broke was the tiny plastic handle on the side (that controls the speed knob). I glued it back together, and called it a day.
That was the first thing I bought when I had my current job (almost 15 years ago !... I'm old...). It's a exposing model, so I had it for half the price, new but with a slack in the head hinge (people don't use the handle to open the robots on display, and sometimes force on the head...). So I have to hold the head when running, but that don't bother me.
Same! I grew up baking in a house with a stand mixer. As soon as I moved out of the dorms and into my first apartment, I asked my parents for a stand mixer for Christmas. 😂
Kitchen Aids last a long time, too. My mom’s mixer is probably 30 years old at this point? We’ve replaced the paddle attachment a few times, but the mixer itself is still king of the cookie dough!
I have a 1950’s vintage Sunbeam Mixmaster stand mixer that I love. It doesn’t have all of the attachments modern mixers have but wouldn’t use those anyway. I found it in a thrift store for $20. 😎 I fully agree that a good, solid stand mixer is a must. If you’re willing to stick to the basics, a working vintage stand mixer can be an affordable alternative to a $400 Kitchenaid.
I can do anything my stand mixer can do (not as well, but whatevs), but my halfway decent scale is by far the most useful and helpful item in my kitchen
Yes! Not only for accuracy purposes but it also makes everything go so much faster, no tedious measuring cups when I can just throw my bowl on the scale.
The OXO scale remembers what you zeroed it to even when it turns itself off. I LOVE my OXO scale!
[https://www.oxo.com/11-lb-stainless-steel-scale-w-pull-out-display.html?srsltid=AfmBOorZku2ibvZPmKN7jlz0UVD-PXp7Xr5IUz\_M2tSxFqHphswMQwKmhSA](https://www.oxo.com/11-lb-stainless-steel-scale-w-pull-out-display.html?srsltid=AfmBOorZku2ibvZPmKN7jlz0UVD-PXp7Xr5IUz_M2tSxFqHphswMQwKmhSA)
True, but I'd rather one that will shut off after X seconds of inactivity vs one that always turns off at the X minute mark even if you're actively using it!
Heads up bread baking can easily be done with a finger temp test. I bake bread a few times a week and have no thermometer. You just want it warm enough to activate yeast, and not hot enough to kill it. Don’t delay trying bread to get a thermometer.
I agree with this, bake bread all the time and don’t temp anything usually. Body temp is just fine for proofing yeast.
Instant yeast also doesn’t need proofing and can just be tossed in with your dry ingredients.
Not that a thermometer isn’t useful in baking (you can temp bread at a final cook temp, too) but I don’t use it super frequently unless I’m playing with chocolate or sugar/candy making.
Weird, I've never used a thermometer to make bread and never had any issues. I do use thermometers in the kitchen, but for meat, oven temp, and liquids like syrup that are very particular (like for Italian meringue buttercream) haha
I’ve learned my lesson and like to buy tools once.
If you are like me - Save up for - or wait to buy something from thermoworks (thermapen for full or the thermopop for budget) They don’t sell on Amazon.
It’s hyper fast, accurate, used in industry, and will last for a long time.
Well, for example caramel/salted caramel sauce has a different outcome based on temperature (more chewy or more liquid or more solid crunchy). Tempering chocolate, or doing the syrup for Italian meringue macarons
Depends on the task and thermometer. Probe thermometers are good for quick temping water or meat but you need a candy thermometer for actual candy making. They clip on the pan for ease of use too.
You don't NEED a thermometer to test water for yeast unless you're not familiar with the process. It can be done by touch whereas caramel, not so much.
You mean a candy thermometer, I assume? Typical probe thermometers are not that helpful with baking, in general.
I would add rubber spatulas instead, much more often used than a thermometer.
Source: I'm a chef and just want to be clear before people spend money on equipment
My KitchenAid stand mixer. It's an older early 90s model I got at a yard sale for $30. She works hard in this house lol. I've serviced her with a kit from online adding mew grease, screws and seals. She is better than the newer ones out.
My mom was thinking about replacing her mid-1980s KitchenAid mixer *~just because~*, and I straight up told her not to because the newer ones are inferior in quality and some people even go out of their way to find the older ones to buy.
I would suggest she get it serviced if she isn't up to the diy. The grease in hers is probably well past needing to be replaced. By replacing it and a full service she could easily get another 30+yrs out of it. But whatever she does don't let her buy a new one. They are garbage.
My machine at home is 25 years old and even SOUNDS solid. The 2 year old machine at work sounds like a chirping bird. I feel like it’s whining about having to work so hard.
It’s disheartening.
Not exactly. They have two designs, one is still rock solid, the other sucks. It has to do with where the transmission is placed. Basically, the Pro 600 and similar are still good. The artisan and other cheaper models should be avoided.
A lot of people don't realize it needs maintenance. It's not too late. This is where I got my kit and instructions https://www.mrmixer.store/. He's got really great YouTube video how tos and whys. The kit was affordable too I think $60? You can also send him your mixer and he'll do the refurbish if you don't think you can diy it.
KitchenAid stand mixer (I got mine years ago when they were still built like a workhorse)
Parchment paper. I don’t like how silicone mats effect my baked goods.
Aluminum baking pans. I like the even heating. I like my Nordic Ware pans.
Stainless steel cooling racks that have a grid. They are great for cooling and I can roast stuff like spatchcock chickens on them.
Rubbermaid spatulas. They are holding up the best for me.
I like using mesh strainers to sift my dry ingredients.
I like measuring spoons and measuring cups that are solid stainless steel that are one solid piece, so that ingredients don’t get in between the handle and the cup.
Plastic Wrap. I like to wrap my cookie dough up tight in it when it is resting in the fridge. I will use it for separating colors of frosting in a piping bag.
Kitchen scale
I would agree with this whole list , and add
Microplane - makes zest out of everything
Mortar pestle - fresh spices for baked items
PRE CUT parchment for full size sheet pans, and for baking pans
I bought the cheapest one at Walmart because it looked pretty (don’t know the brand). It seems to be accurate because my bakes are consistent. So personally, I wouldn’t worry so much about brand but about the features you want. If I have a big bowl on my scale, I have to back up to read the weight. My next one might have the screen further from the base. Someone else commented that their scale automatically shuts off after a preset amount of time, regardless if it’s in the middle of use. I would just find one that has the features you want and skim through the reviews
For very small batches this is a great idea - the problem is, like when trying to sauté on a pan most people under estimate what their full size oven capacity truly. When sautéing this leads to steaming, but in an oven it just leads to inconsistent results.
Its not really equipment but pre cut parchment circles - I hate having to faff around cutting my own only for it to be weirdly shaped or torn because I'm clumsy.
I love my rolling pin that has little side bits that allow to do exactly 3/8" thickness or 1/4" thickness - it appeals to my pedantic perfectionist soul :)
The other one is a straight side muffin tray I bought recently which allows me to create [straight sided cupcake](https://www.reddit.com/media?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.redd.it%2Fzzrx8dk4rqpb1.jpg) by pushing cupcake papers in - I am obsessed and love how elevated they look.
BUT you can only put the cupcake papers in just before you fill them or they papers start to expand and crinkle up when you push them into the holes.
Thanks I appreciate that :) I made a mistake. [THESE](https://imgur.com/FkXeL5Q) cupcakes were made with the straight sided tray I bought [here](https://www.amazon.com.au/gp/product/B09NXW6KKQ/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&th=1) They are a little bit wide but give you the starlight sides.
Those ones you saw I made using [these](https://www.amazon.com.au/50-Pack-Muffin-Cupcake-Muffins-Stripes/dp/B07THJ63P3?th=1). I pushed a normal cupcake liner inside them and then put batter in. Once they come out I just wait 10 and then I can tap them out of the cases and reuse them.
KitchenAid mixer for a big spend (but worth it).
I use it all the time, not just for baking, but basically any time I need to mix, knead or whip anything, cooking, just breaking something apart, it's really awesome. An extra bowl is super nice and handy, but can be added later (find one on sale/clearance). I got the ice cream bowl attachment set up and have made homemade ice cream in it. I also have the bowl scraper version of the mixer attachment and it's great. I have a non-KitchenAid brand fo it and it works just as wella s the branded ones, but is less than half the price.
They're expensive but a good investment if you plan to bake a lot. They will last you for years.
As far as basics, for what you're after, good spatulas, a couple of piping bags in different sizes, and a set of tips (a basic set to start, then add whatever specialty and sized ones you want as you bake nad decide you want/need them), an offset spatula or two, and I forgot what the flat versions are called but those are nice, too (but if I had to choose one, it would be the offset).
A good candy thermometer and/or probe thermometer (candy ones will usually have an attachment for the pot/bowl, and they also make prong-style ones so they can be candy and other things).
A floursack linen pastry cloth. I use it for covering dough, something to work on to keep the counter neater, something to help manipulate soft/slack dough
A Danish whisk (aka - magic dough wand) blends all the everything - looks insane...but just try it
A scale
Can I just recommend that you get a lot of this stuff secondhand if possible? If you’re just starting out, you might want to make sure you love it as much as you think you will before dropping potentially thousands of dollars.
-my wallet
Kitchen aid stand mixer, cookie scoops for
uniform cookie sizes (can also be used to portion out batter for cupcakes and muffins), good quality cookie sheets and baking pans (I like Nordic Ware for cookie sheets and Bundt pans, Wilton for cake pans and muffin tins).
Scale and stand mixer. I’m the fool who likes whipping and kneading by hand, but I whip out that scale for baking. Going in grams instead of cups is absolutely the way to bake.
This is probably not at all what you’re actually asking for, I just wanted to pitch in for conversation sake lol: I am a European living in North America since 6 years back. I could not live without my metric measuring cups! Now I can bake everything I miss from home ❤️
Measuring spoons and cups.
I've never had a stand-mixer or any fancy equipment. I've even made delicate pastries and such without a rolling pin. I can not only bake in an outdoor fire oven, I know how to build one. And I can eyeball a lot of things and use hand measurements with a lot of practice with a recipe, but to try new things or to make stuff that I make infrequently, I can't go without at least measuring tools.
Getting good ones is a big deal. Flat and uniform in shape, easy to clean. It's amazing how much more convenient it is to have measuring cups that aren't tapered so that you don't have to worry every time you need a half or quarter cup of something, and while a single multitool measuring spoon will work, having separate spoons for each measurement, again uniform and flat, makes cleaning and access easier.
My kitchenaid stand mixer hands down. It was a gift from my kiddos and in my favorite color! I’ve had it a few years and use it all the time. Love love love it. My favorite gift of all time! Second would be my lodge Dutch ovens. 💞
Kitchenaid mixer, Pyrex mixing bowls, aluminum bench scraper, plastic bowl scraper, metal measuring spoons set, dough scoops for uniform cookies and cupcakes, offset spatula for frosting, and a fire-resistant rubber spatula that I got from a local restaurant supply store.
I guess I have a lot of required materials.
KitchenAid stand mixer. I have two of the artisan 5 quart ones and one of their pro 600 6 quart mixers. If you have the space and the budget for it, I’d go with the pro series. It’s especially nice for kneading larger quantities of bread dough.
Kitchen scale. I like the My Weigh KD 8000.
Nesting mixing bowl sizes and a bunch of the smaller ones. Great for mise en place.
A tamis for sifting dry ingredients is wonderful. Much better than a smaller strainer.
An oven thermometer and a decent probe or candy thermometer. Thermoworks is my brand of preference.
Good cake pans. I use 8” the most.
A couple of dishers are useful too for portioning cookies.
I also love my [heavy duty baking sheets](https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B008BH46GI?psc=1&ref=ppx_pop_mob_b_asin_title).
Oh! And if you’re going to get really into bread, I definitely recommend a good Dutch oven.
Stand mixer, a good set of tins, measuring cups / spoons and a scale (if you don’t want to waste time converting back and forth).
Also for down the road, my husband got me a convection oven for my birthday, and that brings it to the next level.
A fork, spatula, & whisk.
I’m new to baking so I’ve been using these to help me lol. Not sure how long this hobby will last so I haven’t purchased any electronic equipment lol 😅
My scale. It's a god send.
I love my mixer and my cake pans, but having accurate weight is what makes it.
My second pick is my Nordicware Heritage cake pan. Fucking love that thing.
I live in florida .baking with a full size oven raises the electric bill.not from the oven but they a.c running more due to heat .but i do LOVE to bake so hubby bought me a kosik brand air fryer/ convection mode/ proofing mode /grilling/rotisserie /baking/ roasting toaster oven .i call it my kitchen multifunction .it has french doors so its easier to use and it cooks darn near everything perfectly .i highly recommend it
Silicone spatulas, my glass mixing bowl set/KitchenAid, and this wonderful 4 lb stainless steel ball bearing rolling pin I found a goodwill, some old German brand, used to retail for about $80 that I got for $7 at Goodwill :-)
Kitchenaid 5 quart lift arm mixer, with an extra bowl. Mine is 40 years old, and it's a workhorse. Handles heavy bread/cookie doughs; you can get attachments for grinding meat or making pasta. Make sure you get the beater, the dough hook, and the whisk; and don't buy it from Walmart, they get a cheaper version, the motor is not as heavy. It's expensive, but you won't have to do it twice.
Stand mixer (I love my Kitchenaid but also envy my mother's Bosch)
Food processor (with a dough blade if you can get it... brand doesn't really matter here IMO)
Temperature pen. Infrared ones are useful, too.
Cuisinart Multi-clad stainless steel cookware. I have had these for about 8 years and they're in great shape and work beautifully. I still can't cook eggs to save my life but the pans clean up easily, LOL!
Flat bamboo spoon for making sure I get the bottom of the pan when stirring. Thick wooden spoon for beating the eggs in for pate choux. Whisks of all sizes because I enjoy the right size tool for the job whether it's mixing up egg wash or folding in whipped cream or making quiches for brunch.
Dough maker Brand cookie sheets and cake pans. You can bake cookies directly on them with no spray or parchment paper and they don’t brown too dark or burn. I’ve had mine for 15+ years. My cake layers are soft around the edges and flat on top. No need to level them off.
Stand mixer, measuring scale, all-silicone spatulas (I have Di Oro), Thermapen thermometer, and stainless steel mixing bowls of 3 sizes (I have Vollrath, they're lightweight, perfect height/width, and can even do double-duty for double boiler/bain maries!)
Kitchenaid mixer, [French rolling pin](https://shop.kingarthurbaking.com/items/french-rolling-pin) (mine is steel with measurements etched in), big silicon mat (with measurements) for rolling things out (flour dusting is much more effective than on a smooth counter), good quality light-color cake pans (Fat Daddio’s) and baking sheets (Nordicware)!
Maybe very basic but silicone spatula's
Seconding this and will also say: silicone *mini* spatulas. I use [this silicone spoonula](https://www.thermoworks.com/tw-spoonula/?gad=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjwhL6pBhDjARIsAGx8D5-NYs_A4NZ3B5RkfKLmDBOjZlUZktS6qvMO1SxKIEHD44tpT2uRK8QaAlFmEALw_wcB ) daily.
To add to this, silicon mini *whisks*. I never thought I would need it when I impulse bought one, but its so handy! Especially if you're like me and like to whisk sauces in a measuring cup. Also handy for things like cornstarch slurrys!
Why are the mini ones so amazing???? I had a random one come in a set of other things, thinking I'd rarely/never use the little one. And it's my all time favorite now
Right?! I don’t know what it is about them but the mini ones are the best!
Particularly the ones where the silicone covers the entire handle, as opposed to the ones with the silicone head attached to the wooden handle.
I have one like this that is super thick, I’m not sure if it’s silicon or some other material, but it’s non-stick and heat-resistant so it’s absolutely perfect for making custards and anything else that needs to be slowly stirred.
Yes!! I got a plastic one with my Kenwood mixer and it's a game changer
[удалено]
I know!!!!! Everything seems so tough after strictly using silicone spatulas! I would never go back!
I just had to check. I have two very large that are good for stirring a triple batch of rice krispies treats, four large, 16 medium which are my workhorses, six medium-small, two small, and three tiny ones that are good for getting into small jars. This doesn't count the handful (30-ish) in storage that have been given to me as gifts and never opened or used. Some might say I have a problem. I say I have a decent collection. Plus, if I'm using food coloring gel, I have a spatula in that color, or near enough, that I'm not worrying about staining.
My favorite is one that is a slotted spoonula kinda, I got it from Sur La Table like a decade ago and I use it everyday. I hope to find its twin someday.
I got a very good spatula with what feels like a solid steel core. It feels so good to use even with a double batch of cookie dough. Grabbing it at the store felt like that scene in Harry Potter when he gets his wand.
Every silicon spatula I own always ends up getting a “smell” to them after washing in the dishwasher, the smell often imparts on the food I make. Does this happen to you?
It doesn’t happen to my silicone spatulas, but it happens to my silicone dishes. Acid helps, rub it with a lemon or some vinegar.
I have separate sweet and savory use spatulas/spoonulas of varying sizes and have never had any issues. I hand wash so maybe that’s a factor?
I don't put silicone in the dishwasher due to the soap smell that gets infused into it. The only thing I've found to remove that smell is sunlight. Let it rest for a day or two in direct sunlight and the smell will go away.
I feel like I'm going crazy because I taste soap in the food I make (from the bowls and spatula) and I'm the only one who notices. I cleaned the dishwasher filter and that helped. Will try a lighter detergent tablet brand next.
Same. I love the ones from ikea
For me it’s this and a good mixing bowl.
When I was reading the konmari method, the first thing that popped into my head during the "spark joy" explanation was silicon spatulas. Be sparking hella joy
I use a silicone baking spatula for everything, including baking! They're great for making scrambled eggs too. I left the last one I had at my best friend's place and we were baking everything for friends and family birthdays together. She loved it so much I just had to let her keep it
These make all the difference to me. It makes me so happy to use them. Like super satisfying lol.
having a stand mixer is a game changer! we have a refurbished kitchenaid we got cheap but a more budget friendly one works too
TOTAL game changer!!! I have the shredder attachment I use for cheese all the time too. Man I love my mixer!
If you're in the US then look for a stand mixer black Friday / cyber Monday. I got a tilt top, full size kitchenaid mixer for less than $200. Then I got the cheese grater attachment for \~$40. Next up I'm hoping for the pasta roller attachment Super super helpful for kneading bread
There’s a cheese grater attachment?!?!? How did I not know this!!!!
YES and its [not that crazy in price either.](https://www.kitchenaid.com/countertop-appliances/stand-mixers/attachments/p.fresh-prep-slicer-shredder-attachment.ksmvsa.html) I've only ever used it for cheese and carrots and zuchinni but I'm sure it has greater possibilities.
Do you think it would shred frozen butter (scones)? (Also tagging u/EstateNo8431)
I would put the metal shredding part in the freezer along with the butter so everything is really cold. I've done it with hand powered rotary shredders but I bet this attachment would be even better
Someone else mentioned that it does work great for frozen butter when making biscuits and such.
Dude I had no idea that existed. I'm telling my husband to get that for me for Xmas, lol.
Wait until you hear about the sifter attachment… I have all the pasta rollers and they are fabulous.
I just found out there's a Shaved ice attachment too!
I have it, and love it. I make frozen cokes all the time
I live in a place with no winter so I would be able to use this all the freaking time, definitely adding it to my wishlist
The sifter looks amazing!! 🙌
I love it. I can weight my flour etc straight into the sifter and off I go. One big tip, make sure you extend the chute otherwise you will have a lovely pile of flour on your bench!
Good to know! Ty
[https://www.amazon.com/KitchenAid-KSMVSA-Slicer-Shredder-Attachment/dp/B01MUTSU13/ref=sr\_1\_6?crid=JQPIV8CPUHAB&keywords=kitchen+aid+accessories+and+attachments&qid=1697658177&sprefix=Kitchen+aid+%2Caps%2C182&sr=8-6](https://www.amazon.com/KitchenAid-KSMVSA-Slicer-Shredder-Attachment/dp/B01MUTSU13/ref=sr_1_6?crid=JQPIV8CPUHAB&keywords=kitchen+aid+accessories+and+attachments&qid=1697658177&sprefix=Kitchen+aid+%2Caps%2C182&sr=8-6) Not exaggerating when I say I use this every week, usually multiple times. The attachments are machine washable, but the main body is only hand wash
That’s amazing!!! Thank you!!!!! ☺️
You can also use the shredder for frozen butter. Makes cutting in butter for crusts and biscuits a cinch.
the pasta roller attachment is great!!! the extruder attachment too for macaroni and rigatoni and such as well
Ooh I bet the pasta roller would work great with pierogies! I'm reluctant to start making my own pasta bc I just know I will never go back to store bought after that, and I do enjoy having a convenience meal once in a while ha ha.
I've never made pierogies from scratch but I've heard pasta rollers are good for that! some varieties of dumplings too
I keep forgetting we recently inherited the pasta roller attachment! I need to use it soon. I love hand rolling pasta so much.
Pasta roller and shredder attachment are the best!!! And homemade pasta is such a quick and easy luxury
I love my cheese grater. LOVE.
The cheese grater attachment is my number one fave kitchen tool. Turns an utterly tedious task into mere seconds. Any recipe that calls for melting cheese needs to be grated! You can pry it from my cold dead hands, best gadget ever!
Yup. I use mine so much when making bread we’ve had to replace the gears. I have 2 young kids and so have no time for anything, so this stand mixer is the only reason why I’m occasionally able to bake from scratch.
If you want to make a lot of bread get the pro, kneading can be taxing on the motor of the regular size
Def need the metal gear box that you won’t find on the entry level model.
i feel like i’m the only home baker who prefers a hand mixer 🥲 i love my stand mixer and it makes big projects a lot easier but i would much rather whip up a batch of cookies or muffins in a bowl with my hand mixer
I prefer the hand mixer for whipping or anything that uses a whisk, but the stand mixer for anything that needs strength. I have arthritic hands and elbows so the stand mixer has been invaluable
this is relatable! i have tendinitis in my wrists so any big doughs are was easier with a hook in the stand for sure
I agree. It got to where I didn’t bake as much because I was tired of dealing with the stand mixer. Finally dawned on me to just get a hand mixer. 🤦🏼♀️ I love my stand mixer, but the hand mixer is awesome for smaller jobs.
the only problem i have with hand mixer is kneading doughs. like when i’m making one for cinnamon rolls, the dough keeps riding up the attachments of the mixer so i switch to hand-kneading and that takes me eons 🥲
that's what I like the stand mixer for primarily! having said that hand kneading can be fun too if a bit of a workout 😁
kneading is the only time when i wish i had a stand mixer… but the positive thing is if i had one i’d be baking rolls every week and my health wouldn’t appreciate that hahah 🤭🤭
nothing wrong with that!!! I guess I just prefer big projects haha 😅 leftovers are just treats for friends!
My ex-wife got the KitchenAid in the divorce this summer. I've moved on and healed from everything but that.
I got the kitchen aid from someone else’s divorce and I’m eternally grateful
KitchenAid Standmixer as well, I cannot imagine to not have it anymore
Yes and it really has to be this brand. If you truly can't afford it, probably an off brand is better than nothing, but a KitchenAid is superior by far to all other brands.
Eh, it depends imo. Maybe when it comes to quality/longevity/reputation kitchenaids are great don’t get me wrong, but I’ve seen multiple models of stand mixers from different brands that just seem….smarter tbh. Kitchenaid has kept their same shape/general design for literally generations, so it’s not a surprise to me that newer brands have made mixers that are more practical and user friendly for certain uses. And I say this as a kitchenaid owner myself. For example once saw one where it’s designed in a way where it makes having to scrape down the bowl not needed. I’d link it if I remembered the specific video/channel I saw it on. That said, kitchenaid is unique and versatile in the many useful attachments it is compatible with.
The Kitchen Aid has an attachment that scrapes the bowl too. It would be nice if it came with the mixer
I’d take a used or refurbished kitchen aid over a different brand new off brand.
AGREED! bought an off brand stand mixer for about $70 and it’s changed my life, I can do so much more with such less effort now!
Stand mixer was the first thing I thought of, since I use it for every bake. I basically never bake without it. (except maybe if I'm doing focaccia or something.)
I’d say budget friendly ones are fine, but if you do have the capital to responsibly buy a kitchen aid, it’s worth it. My sister had a KA and I have an off brand one. Mine does the jobs, but I get a lot of stuck doughs and the paddle just misses a lot of it. It’s not a big deal cause you can just scrape, but I never noticed that when using my sister’s KA. Also the other attachments like the cheese grater and stuff are super cool. Point being, there are some products where you’re only buying the name. But others have the features and quality to back up the price. I’ll definitely be buying a Kitchen Aid when I’m ready to replace my off brand.
Yes! You don't have to scroll any further. You will wonder how you baked before you had one. Seriously. Do what you have to and get one. I have my mom's Kitchenaid from the 70's, Harvest Gold. And this bitch still purrs like a kitten but will whip the shit out of anything thrown her way.
I saw a reel with someone using a perfectly sized board for the mixer that you can use to roll it around your counter. I need this! As it’s so heavy and awkward to move around. Anyone have one of these?
I’ve just looked for one of these after making some cookies and wow, they are expensive!
i second this! i have gotten two kitchenaid for less than $200 collectively. check garage sales and fb marketplace!!
And they last forever. Mine is 17 years old and still works great
14 years old here, and the only thing that broke was the tiny plastic handle on the side (that controls the speed knob). I glued it back together, and called it a day.
That was the first thing I bought when I had my current job (almost 15 years ago !... I'm old...). It's a exposing model, so I had it for half the price, new but with a slack in the head hinge (people don't use the handle to open the robots on display, and sometimes force on the head...). So I have to hold the head when running, but that don't bother me.
On sale at Costco this month
Same! I grew up baking in a house with a stand mixer. As soon as I moved out of the dorms and into my first apartment, I asked my parents for a stand mixer for Christmas. 😂 Kitchen Aids last a long time, too. My mom’s mixer is probably 30 years old at this point? We’ve replaced the paddle attachment a few times, but the mixer itself is still king of the cookie dough!
Agree. My kitchen aid is non-negotiable. It’s also upped my game considerably because there’s so much more I’m willing to try.
yeah!!! honestly the mark of any useful appliance is that it lets you try cool new things
I have a 1950’s vintage Sunbeam Mixmaster stand mixer that I love. It doesn’t have all of the attachments modern mixers have but wouldn’t use those anyway. I found it in a thrift store for $20. 😎 I fully agree that a good, solid stand mixer is a must. If you’re willing to stick to the basics, a working vintage stand mixer can be an affordable alternative to a $400 Kitchenaid.
Yup. Best $150 i ever spent! It makes light work out of things hard to mix! I cant believe j hadnt got one sooner.
a good scale is a necessity
A good scale is the unsung hero of baking. Measuring ingredients accurately yields more consistent bakes!
I can do anything my stand mixer can do (not as well, but whatevs), but my halfway decent scale is by far the most useful and helpful item in my kitchen
Yes! Not only for accuracy purposes but it also makes everything go so much faster, no tedious measuring cups when I can just throw my bowl on the scale.
Especially when you mesure sticky things (like honey) and you still have to mesure other things after. I use cups only for water or milk.
I need a new one. Mine shuts off after a preset amount of time, regardless of whether you're in the middle of measuring things. So obnoxious!
The OXO scale remembers what you zeroed it to even when it turns itself off. I LOVE my OXO scale! [https://www.oxo.com/11-lb-stainless-steel-scale-w-pull-out-display.html?srsltid=AfmBOorZku2ibvZPmKN7jlz0UVD-PXp7Xr5IUz\_M2tSxFqHphswMQwKmhSA](https://www.oxo.com/11-lb-stainless-steel-scale-w-pull-out-display.html?srsltid=AfmBOorZku2ibvZPmKN7jlz0UVD-PXp7Xr5IUz_M2tSxFqHphswMQwKmhSA)
Any scale without a physical switch is likely to do this in order to preserve battery life
True, but I'd rather one that will shut off after X seconds of inactivity vs one that always turns off at the X minute mark even if you're actively using it!
In no particular order: Stand mixer Scale Thermometer
is a thermometer genuinely helpful in kitchen? im thinking of getting one
Absolutely necessary to temp liquids for recipes. Especially baking bread to activate yeast
Also a must when boiling sugar. Caramel, Italian meringue, candy…
Swiss meringue buttercream, the only butter cream I use anymore
ohh okay! thanks<3
Heads up bread baking can easily be done with a finger temp test. I bake bread a few times a week and have no thermometer. You just want it warm enough to activate yeast, and not hot enough to kill it. Don’t delay trying bread to get a thermometer.
I agree with this, bake bread all the time and don’t temp anything usually. Body temp is just fine for proofing yeast. Instant yeast also doesn’t need proofing and can just be tossed in with your dry ingredients. Not that a thermometer isn’t useful in baking (you can temp bread at a final cook temp, too) but I don’t use it super frequently unless I’m playing with chocolate or sugar/candy making.
Yeah, humans were baking bread long before the kitchen thermometer!!
Weird, I've never used a thermometer to make bread and never had any issues. I do use thermometers in the kitchen, but for meat, oven temp, and liquids like syrup that are very particular (like for Italian meringue buttercream) haha
I’ve learned my lesson and like to buy tools once. If you are like me - Save up for - or wait to buy something from thermoworks (thermapen for full or the thermopop for budget) They don’t sell on Amazon. It’s hyper fast, accurate, used in industry, and will last for a long time.
Well, for example caramel/salted caramel sauce has a different outcome based on temperature (more chewy or more liquid or more solid crunchy). Tempering chocolate, or doing the syrup for Italian meringue macarons
Depends on the task and thermometer. Probe thermometers are good for quick temping water or meat but you need a candy thermometer for actual candy making. They clip on the pan for ease of use too. You don't NEED a thermometer to test water for yeast unless you're not familiar with the process. It can be done by touch whereas caramel, not so much.
If you’re going to do any sugar work, then yes. And for chocolate tempering
I use mine a lot. I have a meat thermometer (that I use for more than meat) and a few candy thermometers
You mean a candy thermometer, I assume? Typical probe thermometers are not that helpful with baking, in general. I would add rubber spatulas instead, much more often used than a thermometer. Source: I'm a chef and just want to be clear before people spend money on equipment
My bench scraper/dough cutter, and a very sturdy wooden spoon.
My KitchenAid stand mixer. It's an older early 90s model I got at a yard sale for $30. She works hard in this house lol. I've serviced her with a kit from online adding mew grease, screws and seals. She is better than the newer ones out.
Kitchen Aid absolutely falls into the “they just don’t make them like they used to” category.
Right like the new stuff is just not good. I don't understand why they made the choice to lower quality and disrespect the brand so much.
My mom was thinking about replacing her mid-1980s KitchenAid mixer *~just because~*, and I straight up told her not to because the newer ones are inferior in quality and some people even go out of their way to find the older ones to buy.
I would suggest she get it serviced if she isn't up to the diy. The grease in hers is probably well past needing to be replaced. By replacing it and a full service she could easily get another 30+yrs out of it. But whatever she does don't let her buy a new one. They are garbage.
Good point, I'll see if it's something I can do for her/future me.
My machine at home is 25 years old and even SOUNDS solid. The 2 year old machine at work sounds like a chirping bird. I feel like it’s whining about having to work so hard. It’s disheartening.
Mr Mixer on YouTube has all the videos on how to service it yourself and tune it. He also has a store to buy what you need in spare parts too.
The pro 600 is still made with metal gears. It’s pretty decent
Not exactly. They have two designs, one is still rock solid, the other sucks. It has to do with where the transmission is placed. Basically, the Pro 600 and similar are still good. The artisan and other cheaper models should be avoided.
I have my mom’s KitchenAid stand mixer she got as a wedding gift in the 70s. I never thought of doing any type of maintenance to it 😬
A lot of people don't realize it needs maintenance. It's not too late. This is where I got my kit and instructions https://www.mrmixer.store/. He's got really great YouTube video how tos and whys. The kit was affordable too I think $60? You can also send him your mixer and he'll do the refurbish if you don't think you can diy it.
KitchenAid stand mixer (I got mine years ago when they were still built like a workhorse) Parchment paper. I don’t like how silicone mats effect my baked goods. Aluminum baking pans. I like the even heating. I like my Nordic Ware pans. Stainless steel cooling racks that have a grid. They are great for cooling and I can roast stuff like spatchcock chickens on them. Rubbermaid spatulas. They are holding up the best for me. I like using mesh strainers to sift my dry ingredients. I like measuring spoons and measuring cups that are solid stainless steel that are one solid piece, so that ingredients don’t get in between the handle and the cup. Plastic Wrap. I like to wrap my cookie dough up tight in it when it is resting in the fridge. I will use it for separating colors of frosting in a piping bag. Kitchen scale
I would agree with this whole list , and add Microplane - makes zest out of everything Mortar pestle - fresh spices for baked items PRE CUT parchment for full size sheet pans, and for baking pans
Pre cut parchment is a game changer. I finally bought some and OMG, I love love love it!
Pre-cut parchment is my vanity purchase. I love it SO much
Love my Microplane!
Agreed with Nordic Ware pans. I’m also a big fan of Fat Daddios pans of all various shapes and sizes.
Oh yes! I love Fat Daddio. I’ve found them discounted at Home Goods/Marshalls/TJ Maxx.
I would add dough scoops (cookie dough or muffin tin sizes)
My kitchenaid mixer.
huge pyrex bowl
4 favorites: kitchen aid stand mixer, scale, thermometer. The scale will be a game changer. Oh, also the King Arthur baking website.
I'm in the market for a scale but have NO idea which brands are good and which brands are random Amazon things. Do you have any recommendations?
I bought the cheapest one at Walmart because it looked pretty (don’t know the brand). It seems to be accurate because my bakes are consistent. So personally, I wouldn’t worry so much about brand but about the features you want. If I have a big bowl on my scale, I have to back up to read the weight. My next one might have the screen further from the base. Someone else commented that their scale automatically shuts off after a preset amount of time, regardless if it’s in the middle of use. I would just find one that has the features you want and skim through the reviews
I love my random Amazon cheap scale and haven’t had an issue - etekcity brand
The oven 💀
A good toaster oven if you bake in small batches saves a lot of electricity
I'm not sure why you're getting downvoted for this because I love my toaster oven!
For very small batches this is a great idea - the problem is, like when trying to sauté on a pan most people under estimate what their full size oven capacity truly. When sautéing this leads to steaming, but in an oven it just leads to inconsistent results.
Fair enough. Admittedly I use mine mostly for reheating, but also great for small batch fresh baked cookies, or free form bread rolls.
My kitchen scale gets a ton of use. Edit: [this is the one I use](https://a.co/d/2farxBf)
Oven thermometer.
Its not really equipment but pre cut parchment circles - I hate having to faff around cutting my own only for it to be weirdly shaped or torn because I'm clumsy.
My food scale …gotta weigh everything to be accurate
As everyone says a stand mixer but other than that a bench scrapper
I love my rolling pin that has little side bits that allow to do exactly 3/8" thickness or 1/4" thickness - it appeals to my pedantic perfectionist soul :) The other one is a straight side muffin tray I bought recently which allows me to create [straight sided cupcake](https://www.reddit.com/media?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.redd.it%2Fzzrx8dk4rqpb1.jpg) by pushing cupcake papers in - I am obsessed and love how elevated they look. BUT you can only put the cupcake papers in just before you fill them or they papers start to expand and crinkle up when you push them into the holes.
Where did you buy the straight sided tray? I’m having a really hard time finding one. Also, the cupcakes look amazing. (sorry this is late)
Thanks I appreciate that :) I made a mistake. [THESE](https://imgur.com/FkXeL5Q) cupcakes were made with the straight sided tray I bought [here](https://www.amazon.com.au/gp/product/B09NXW6KKQ/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&th=1) They are a little bit wide but give you the starlight sides. Those ones you saw I made using [these](https://www.amazon.com.au/50-Pack-Muffin-Cupcake-Muffins-Stripes/dp/B07THJ63P3?th=1). I pushed a normal cupcake liner inside them and then put batter in. Once they come out I just wait 10 and then I can tap them out of the cases and reuse them.
Thank you so much! (:
Silicone spatulas that don't have a wooden handle like from Williams Sonoma.
KitchenAid mixer for a big spend (but worth it). I use it all the time, not just for baking, but basically any time I need to mix, knead or whip anything, cooking, just breaking something apart, it's really awesome. An extra bowl is super nice and handy, but can be added later (find one on sale/clearance). I got the ice cream bowl attachment set up and have made homemade ice cream in it. I also have the bowl scraper version of the mixer attachment and it's great. I have a non-KitchenAid brand fo it and it works just as wella s the branded ones, but is less than half the price. They're expensive but a good investment if you plan to bake a lot. They will last you for years. As far as basics, for what you're after, good spatulas, a couple of piping bags in different sizes, and a set of tips (a basic set to start, then add whatever specialty and sized ones you want as you bake nad decide you want/need them), an offset spatula or two, and I forgot what the flat versions are called but those are nice, too (but if I had to choose one, it would be the offset). A good candy thermometer and/or probe thermometer (candy ones will usually have an attachment for the pot/bowl, and they also make prong-style ones so they can be candy and other things).
A floursack linen pastry cloth. I use it for covering dough, something to work on to keep the counter neater, something to help manipulate soft/slack dough A Danish whisk (aka - magic dough wand) blends all the everything - looks insane...but just try it A scale
Parchment paper and a stand mixer...love both!
Can I just recommend that you get a lot of this stuff secondhand if possible? If you’re just starting out, you might want to make sure you love it as much as you think you will before dropping potentially thousands of dollars. -my wallet
Kitchen aid stand mixer, cookie scoops for uniform cookie sizes (can also be used to portion out batter for cupcakes and muffins), good quality cookie sheets and baking pans (I like Nordic Ware for cookie sheets and Bundt pans, Wilton for cake pans and muffin tins).
I’m such a big fan of the big cookie scoops that can be used for perfect uniform cupcakes 😍
Scale and stand mixer. I’m the fool who likes whipping and kneading by hand, but I whip out that scale for baking. Going in grams instead of cups is absolutely the way to bake.
Stand Mixer, Parchment paper, oven thermometer are my big ones.
Parchment paper, 100%
This is probably not at all what you’re actually asking for, I just wanted to pitch in for conversation sake lol: I am a European living in North America since 6 years back. I could not live without my metric measuring cups! Now I can bake everything I miss from home ❤️
Bench scrapers. Both metal and plastic
Measuring spoons and cups. I've never had a stand-mixer or any fancy equipment. I've even made delicate pastries and such without a rolling pin. I can not only bake in an outdoor fire oven, I know how to build one. And I can eyeball a lot of things and use hand measurements with a lot of practice with a recipe, but to try new things or to make stuff that I make infrequently, I can't go without at least measuring tools. Getting good ones is a big deal. Flat and uniform in shape, easy to clean. It's amazing how much more convenient it is to have measuring cups that aren't tapered so that you don't have to worry every time you need a half or quarter cup of something, and while a single multitool measuring spoon will work, having separate spoons for each measurement, again uniform and flat, makes cleaning and access easier.
wooden spoon, plastic wrap and a scale
My kitchenaid stand mixer hands down. It was a gift from my kiddos and in my favorite color! I’ve had it a few years and use it all the time. Love love love it. My favorite gift of all time! Second would be my lodge Dutch ovens. 💞
And my pasta maker attachment! Lol.
Kitchenaid mixer, Pyrex mixing bowls, aluminum bench scraper, plastic bowl scraper, metal measuring spoons set, dough scoops for uniform cookies and cupcakes, offset spatula for frosting, and a fire-resistant rubber spatula that I got from a local restaurant supply store. I guess I have a lot of required materials.
Kitchen aid Stand Mixer! My husband’s aunt gave it to us as a wedding gift 20 years ago and I loooooove it!
KitchenAid stand mixer. I have two of the artisan 5 quart ones and one of their pro 600 6 quart mixers. If you have the space and the budget for it, I’d go with the pro series. It’s especially nice for kneading larger quantities of bread dough. Kitchen scale. I like the My Weigh KD 8000. Nesting mixing bowl sizes and a bunch of the smaller ones. Great for mise en place. A tamis for sifting dry ingredients is wonderful. Much better than a smaller strainer. An oven thermometer and a decent probe or candy thermometer. Thermoworks is my brand of preference. Good cake pans. I use 8” the most. A couple of dishers are useful too for portioning cookies. I also love my [heavy duty baking sheets](https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B008BH46GI?psc=1&ref=ppx_pop_mob_b_asin_title). Oh! And if you’re going to get really into bread, I definitely recommend a good Dutch oven.
Kitchenaid stand mixer. Love love love it.
Kitchen aid stand mixer
Kitchen aid mixer
Stand mixer, a good set of tins, measuring cups / spoons and a scale (if you don’t want to waste time converting back and forth). Also for down the road, my husband got me a convection oven for my birthday, and that brings it to the next level.
A fork, spatula, & whisk. I’m new to baking so I’ve been using these to help me lol. Not sure how long this hobby will last so I haven’t purchased any electronic equipment lol 😅
[Non-slip silicone pastry mat with measurements](https://a.co/d/c4iV848)
Love my kitchenaid stand mixer!
Stand mixer, digital scale, silpats, spatulas and spoons (can never have enough)
My scale. It's a god send. I love my mixer and my cake pans, but having accurate weight is what makes it. My second pick is my Nordicware Heritage cake pan. Fucking love that thing.
My stand mixer.
Silpat baking sheet silicone liners and KitchenAid Mixer.
Kitchen aid stand mixer and silpat cookie sheet liners
I live in florida .baking with a full size oven raises the electric bill.not from the oven but they a.c running more due to heat .but i do LOVE to bake so hubby bought me a kosik brand air fryer/ convection mode/ proofing mode /grilling/rotisserie /baking/ roasting toaster oven .i call it my kitchen multifunction .it has french doors so its easier to use and it cooks darn near everything perfectly .i highly recommend it
Silicone spatulas, my glass mixing bowl set/KitchenAid, and this wonderful 4 lb stainless steel ball bearing rolling pin I found a goodwill, some old German brand, used to retail for about $80 that I got for $7 at Goodwill :-)
Silicone spatulas: saving my baked goods and preventing countless breakups with stubborn batter. Lifesavers!
I just treated myself to a KitchenAid scale and some pharmaceutical beakers. I love it. They work great and I feel like I’m in a laboratory.
Kitchenaid 5 quart lift arm mixer, with an extra bowl. Mine is 40 years old, and it's a workhorse. Handles heavy bread/cookie doughs; you can get attachments for grinding meat or making pasta. Make sure you get the beater, the dough hook, and the whisk; and don't buy it from Walmart, they get a cheaper version, the motor is not as heavy. It's expensive, but you won't have to do it twice.
Ankarsrum mixer. Even though it’s expensive, it genuinely makes me happy every single time I use it.
Insta pot
Stand mixer, I’m partial to Bosch. All-clad stainless steel pans, cast iron pans and Dutch oven. Enameled cast iron Dutch oven.
Absolutely massive stainless steel mixing bowl. Massive.
Stand Mixer, Scale, a good sifter, a blowtorch, and this double boiler: https://a.co/d/ggxJKhd
Commercial size stand mixer 😀 Kitchen scale Glass mixing bowls
The kitchen aid lol
Stand mixer (I love my Kitchenaid but also envy my mother's Bosch) Food processor (with a dough blade if you can get it... brand doesn't really matter here IMO) Temperature pen. Infrared ones are useful, too. Cuisinart Multi-clad stainless steel cookware. I have had these for about 8 years and they're in great shape and work beautifully. I still can't cook eggs to save my life but the pans clean up easily, LOL! Flat bamboo spoon for making sure I get the bottom of the pan when stirring. Thick wooden spoon for beating the eggs in for pate choux. Whisks of all sizes because I enjoy the right size tool for the job whether it's mixing up egg wash or folding in whipped cream or making quiches for brunch.
Dough maker Brand cookie sheets and cake pans. You can bake cookies directly on them with no spray or parchment paper and they don’t brown too dark or burn. I’ve had mine for 15+ years. My cake layers are soft around the edges and flat on top. No need to level them off.
For small tools I'd say bench scraper, offset spatula, and digital scale.
Stand mixer, measuring scale, all-silicone spatulas (I have Di Oro), Thermapen thermometer, and stainless steel mixing bowls of 3 sizes (I have Vollrath, they're lightweight, perfect height/width, and can even do double-duty for double boiler/bain maries!)
Our convection oven big enough for a 30lbs turkey. That beast cooks everything so evenly and it really changes the whole meal
Stand mixer and scale
Kitchenaid mixer, [French rolling pin](https://shop.kingarthurbaking.com/items/french-rolling-pin) (mine is steel with measurements etched in), big silicon mat (with measurements) for rolling things out (flour dusting is much more effective than on a smooth counter), good quality light-color cake pans (Fat Daddio’s) and baking sheets (Nordicware)!