Whether you dream of baking cakes and cookies in your own kitchen or know a beginner baker just starting out, these are the must-have basic items every baking newbie needs. We’re not getting fancy here, these are your no-fuss items. This list is also based on the assumption that you already have cutlery (forks, knives, spoons). 

If you’re looking to make cheesecake bars, whip up some seasonal cookies, or even make a cake roll, these tools will give you what you need to make bakery-worthy desserts from the comfort of your own home. Because everyone deserves delicious things and the opportunity to make them on their own!

The best thing about these items? You can find them all for under $20, most of them under $10! So buy one or a few and get to baking!

1. Spatulas

   These just might be my most used kitchen item. Ideally, you have a few sizes, so buying a set with at minimum a small, medium, and large spatula will be perfect but if not, go for a medium-sized one. Surprisingly, I probably use the small ones the most - getting everything out of all the nooks and crannies - but practically speaking for folding and stirring, a medium one will do the trick best for a variety of bakes!

2. Baking Sheets

   Usually, you can buy these in sets but if not, having a large baking sheet (be sure to check the measurements against the size of your oven!) or two, if you can, is a necessary go-to for your cookies, strombolis, and more. If you’re new to baking and cookie sheets, go for the ones with a rim (versus just a flat metal sheet), this will give you the opportunity to make cakes rolls, toffee candy, and more.

3. 9”x9” or 8”x8” Metal Pan

   One of these square pans is incredibly versatile. Use them for cheesecakes, cinnamon rolls, breads, coffee cakes, and even cookies if you’re in a pinch. For baking, opt for a metal pan as metal conducts heat better than glass and will ensure a more even bake. You really only need one of these so don’t worry about buying more!

4. Measurement Spoons, Cups, Digital Scale

   The most basic of basics, you’ve got to be able to measure your ingredients! Now in the U.S., you’ll most commonly find measurements in cups, teaspoons, and tablespoons, but having a digital scale is very important for things like bread dough or even something as simple as jam (though you’ll find plenty of recipes with conversions for both of these). Baking is science and precision matters! If you want to cover your bases, getting a stainless steel set of cups, spoons, and a simple digital scale will do the trick! You can also get glass measuring cups for your liquids but if you can only afford one, go stainless for ease of measuring your dry ingredients.

   Pro tip: Find measuring cups with multiple markations for measurements. Most have your ¼, ½, and ¾ lines marked on a single cup, but having additional ⅓ and ⅔ markings is incredibly helpful (and saves on dishes since you can keep reusing the same cup).

5. Whisks

   Don’t be fooled, you don’t always need a mixer (hand or standing) to make delicious things. Between your hands, a spatula, and a good whisk, you can whip up almost anything - though maybe with a little extra elbow grease. Whisks are another item that comes in various sizes, personally, I prefer a more narrow whisk to use on average but I do love a weighted whisk for a task like whipping cream for… whipped cream.

6. Mixing Bowls

   Buy a set and stack ‘em up. If you don’t have any mixing bowls, go with glass for your first set. You’ll be able to use them for a bain-marie as easily as pop them into a microwave for any ingredients that need melting. You could additionally buy some metal bowls, but regardless getting a set with a variety of sizes will be perfect for mixing batches of batter, whisking together egg wash, measuring out ingredients, and more. 

BONUS: Cooling Rack

This is a solid baking equipment essential but since I said six… we’ll call it a bonus! Removing your bakes from their pans and allowing them to cool properly is crucial to prevent overcooked cookies, soggy bread, and more. Having a set of racks to cool your fresh-from-the-oven goods on will help determine the make of your final bake - also you can use them for cooking as well! Depending on the size you can even lay them in roasting pans to hold meat, vegetables, and other savory delicacies. 

There you have it! Six (well, seven) basic baking essentials to have in your kitchen to get started on your sweet treat journey. To note, some of the products I linked about price above $20 but you can easily find options for lower price points. Go forth and make all the best baking recipes!

Looking for some beginner baking recipes to try? Try my Easy & Delicious Cinnamon Scones, The Best Key Lime Cheesecake, Rosemary Shortbread, or a large batch of Homemade Granola!

For more recipes, baking essentials, tips, and more follow @accentgolden on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and Pinterest!