Baker's Dozen: Essential Baking Tools for Aspiring Pastry Chefs

Baking is an art that requires both skill and the right tools. Whether you're a fan of cookies, cakes, or pies, becoming an exceptional pastry chef necessitates a well-equipped set of baking tools. Williams Sonoma's expertly curated selection of thirteen baking tools (a Baker's Dozen, or 13 tools!) will empower you to excel on your baking journey and effortlessly create your desired desserts.

KitchenAid® Artisan Stand Mixer
The stand mixer reigns supreme in the baking world, especially when it comes to ease of use and effectiveness. The KitchenAid® Artisan Stand Mixer boasts a commercial-grade 5-quart capacity, equipped with 10 speed settings and a head-tilt function for easy bowl removal. Its four attachments—flat beater, dough hook, wire whip, and pouring shield—cater to all your mixing needs.

Williams Sonoma Goldtouch® 6-Piece Baking Set
Crafted from aluminum-coated steel, the Goldtouch baking set heats up quickly and distributes heat evenly. The non-stick coating makes cleanup a breeze. The set includes half-sheet pans, quarter-sheet pans, cooling racks, muffin pans, square cake pans, and bread pans, fulfilling a variety of baking requirements.

Williams Sonoma Stainless Steel Ultimate Measuring Cups and Spoons, 14-Piece Set
Precision is paramount in baking, and this stainless steel set provides clear markings and flat handles for accurate measurements. The pieces can be nested for compact storage and are dishwasher-safe.

OXO Food Scale
A kitchen scale is indispensable in baking, as it eliminates guesswork and ensures you use the correct ingredient amounts every time. The OXO Food Scale features a clear display and supports multiple units, including pounds, ounces, grams, and kilograms, making it versatile for various baking recipes.

Silpat Silicone Baking Mat
The Silpat baking mat reduces the need for parchment paper and has a non-stick surface that eliminates the need for greasing pans. It's easy to clean and can be rolled up for storage, making it a valuable baking aid.

Williams Sonoma Signature Stainless Steel French Whisk
This whisk, crafted from stainless steel, features a weighted handle and ergonomic design, making it easier to whip cream or mix dry ingredients for baking.

Williams Sonoma Stainless Steel Handle Silicone Spatula
Inspired by paintbrush handles, this spatula's design is comfortable and easy to control. The silicone head can withstand temperatures up to 600ºF, making it effortless to stir and scrape dough from bowls.

Williams Sonoma Tapered Olive Wood Rolling Pin
Not only is the olive wood rolling pin stylish and lightweight, but its tapered design also makes it easier to roll out various types of dough. Its slender shape facilitates flipping or transferring dough to baking sheets without strain.

Williams Sonoma Olive Wood Pastry Tools, 5-Piece Set
Once you have a good spatula and offset spatula, you'll wonder how you ever baked without them. This olive wood pastry set includes five essential tools that make baking more enjoyable and effortless. The pastry brush is perfect for egg washing pies, while the fluted cutter is ideal for cutting dough and decorating.

10-Piece Glass Mixing Bowl Set
Mixing bowls are essential in baking. This glass mixing bowl set comes in various sizes and can be stacked for convenient storage. Whether you're preparing brownies or letting dough rest before baking, this set has you covered.

Ateco Pastry Bag Decorating Kit
Decorating is half the fun of baking. This pastry bag set includes two reusable nylon bags and six different stainless steel tips, allowing you to create professional-looking decorations, such as stars, ropes, flowers, or anything that inspires you.

OXO Cookie Scoop
The cookie scoop may seem unnecessary, but once you use it, you'll wonder how you ever lived without it. The OXO cookie scoop helps portion dough perfectly, with a comfortable, soft-touch handle that makes it easy to use. Besides baking, it can also be used for making meatballs and scooping ice cream.

Round Cookie Cutter Set

Want to make round-shaped baked goods? This round cookie cutter set includes tin-plated cutters in various sizes, perfect for cutting cookies and pastry dough. They're ideal for making doughnuts and other delicious treats.