Baking Made Simple: My Most-Used Kitchen Staples for Beginners 🍰🥖
I didn’t grow up knowing how to cook or bake—honestly, it felt overwhelming. All those gadgets, techniques, and fancy recipes? No thank you. But over the years, something shifted. I wanted to create baked goods for my family that felt simple, nourishing, and made with love. Now, I bake nearly everything we eat at home—from muffins to bread to birthday cakes.
If you’ve ever felt like baking is too complicated to start, I’ve been there. This post is for you, friend. I’m breaking down my 10 most-used, beginner-friendly baking tools, and yes—they’re all affordable and easy to grab on Amazon or even better, at your favorite thrift or estate sale (hello vintage mixing bowls!).
So whether you're a seasoned home cook or just figuring out how to preheat your oven, these are the staples I reach for every single week:
🥧 Ceramic Pie Plate with Ruffled Edge
This pie plate isn’t just functional—it’s beautiful. The ruffled edge makes even a store-bought crust look handmade.
👉 Shop it on Amazon
🍩 Silicone Doughnut Pan Set
Great for little hands and big cravings. These make baking donuts fun and cleanup even easier.
👉 Get the set
🧁 Stainless Steel Cupcake Pan
A classic, sturdy muffin pan you'll use weekly—for cupcakes, muffins, egg bites, and more.
👉 Check it out
🍞 Stainless Steel Bread Pans (Set of 2)
Whether it's banana bread or sourdough, these are must-haves for any home baker.
👉 Get them here
🍲 Casserole Dishes for Oven
Not just for dinner! These are great for baking cinnamon rolls, brownies, and cobblers.
👉 Shop now
🍪 Stainless Steel Biscuit Cutter Set
Biscuits, scones, cookies—this set does it all and nests for easy storage.
👉 See it on Amazon
🧤 Soft Silicone Pot Holder (2-Pack)
Protect your hands and counters. These are flexible, easy to wash, and double as trivets.
👉 Add to cart
🥄 Measuring Cups – Stainless Steel 7-Piece Set
Accurate and durable. I love that these don’t warp or bend.
👉 View set
🌬️ Stainless Steel Wire Cooling Rack
Air circulation is key for perfect cookies and cakes. I use mine daily.
👉 Grab yours
🌼 Natural Tulip Cupcake Liners
Pretty, non-stick, and compostable—these liners make any treat look extra special.
👉 Buy now
📏 Silicone Baking Mat with Measurements
Roll out dough and cookies without the mess. The built-in measurements are perfect for beginners.
👉 Get the mat
✨ A Note From Me to You
If you’re just starting out, don’t feel like you need everything at once. Start with what you’ll use most (I recommend a muffin pan and silicone mats), then build from there. If you love estate sales and thrifting like I do, keep your eyes open for mixing bowls, measuring spoons, and bakeware with character.
You can do this. Baking is simply one small, beautiful way to serve your family—and yourself—with something sweet.
There’s something deeply spiritual about gathering around the table and sharing a meal with those you love. Acts 2:46 reminds us that daily bread is more than food—it’s fellowship, joy, and a moment to give thanks. In the chaos of life, may we remember to pause, break bread, and celebrate the simple grace of togetherness. Whether you're baking from scratch or just setting the table, God meets us there—in the ordinary, daily moments of our homes.
📌 Affiliate Disclosure
This post contains affiliate links. That means I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you) if you choose to shop through one of my links. Thank you for supporting my blog and my baking habit!
