More Baking Tools I Love 

In earlier posts, I’ve already covered my three absolute must-have tools for successful baking:

the oven thermometer, instant-read thermometer, and digital kitchen scale—plus all the baking pans I use most.

If you haven’t read those yet, I recommend going back and checking them out. 

Cake Cutter / Cake Leveler

Cutting cakes evenly with a knife has never been my thing—I always end up slicing them unevenly.

So getting a cake leveler was a huge help. I use one from Ateco with removable blades, and I love it. It’s more expensive than some, but after trying cheaper ones that broke or didn’t cut straight, I can honestly say this one is worth the investment. I use it all the time for sponge cakes and chocolate cakes.

Spring-Loaded Scoop

Perfect for scooping cupcake batter or brownie cookie dough.

I love the medium size most—it gives even portions and makes everything bake more evenly. A small but mighty time-saver.

Kitchen Blowtorch

This is one of those fun tools that I reach for more often than you’d think.

I use it to toast marshmallow fluff or meringue on cakes like my Lemon Ricotta Cake, and it looks so beautiful when you do that.

But I also use it for something super practical: when I make ice cream cakes in a springform pan, a quick pass of the torch around the sides helps the cake release easily—no cracking or damage.

Microplane Grater

This tool is always in use in my kitchen. Whether it’s zesting citrus, grating chocolate, or adding a little fresh nutmeg, it’s something I always keep close by.

You can find inexpensive ones or invest in a sharper, longer-lasting version—either will serve you well.

Offset Spatula / Palette Knife

For frosting cakes or smoothing batter, this tool is a must.

I use one from Ateco, and I also have one from Fat Daddio’s—both are sturdy and give me that clean, polished finish every time.

Rotating Cake Stand

This tool makes decorating cakes so much easier. I’ve had my Ateco turntable for over 15 years, and I still love it.

It lets you spin the cake while you frost or decorate, which gives a cleaner, more even finish—and it’s just easier to work with.

Stand Mixer or Handheld Mixer

Believe it or not, I didn’t get my first pink KitchenAid mixer until I turned 40. I fell in love with the color—it was just so pretty!

But honestly, you don’t need to go out and buy an expensive mixer to start baking. I often buy secondhand mixers, and you can find great ones that still work perfectly. Whether it’s a stand mixer or a handheld one, just use what fits your kitchen and your budget.

You don’t need all these tools to start baking.

Start with the essentials—your scale, thermometers, and baking pans—and build from there as your confidence and love for baking grows.

And remember, it’s not about having everything—it’s about having the right tools that work for you.