'Baking is an antidote to the pace of modern life,' reflects baker, photographer and author Aran Goyoaga in her guide to gluten free baking for Homes & Gardens' Menu of the Moment series. 'In a world that’s so fast and digital, baking gives us a chance to make something real, beautiful, nourishing – and to share it.'
Such a slow and nourishing activity is, in Gyoaga's view, particularly perfect for this time of year, when the weather is chilly and most of us feel like retreating into hibernation. 'I’m a homebody,' she explains. 'I look forward to this time – cozying up with blankets, making a fire, and filling the house with the smell of bread.'
If you're tempted by the art of baking but you're not quite sure where to start, a few carefully-selected tools are all you need. You can, of course, invest in specialist bread-making kits (like this one from Sur La Table), but the essentials are blissfully simple: a mixing bowl, a rolling pin, and one of the best stand mixers. (Here at Homes & Gardens, our top pick is always the Kitchen Aid tilt-head mixer with a walnut wood bowl.)
'I don’t like clutter; I’d rather invest in a few well-made pieces that last a lifetime,' Gyoaga declares. 'When you pare back, you learn what really matters. You understand why you’re using a tool, what it’s made of, and how it serves you.'
Below, you'll find an edit of stylish essentials to help you kickstart your bread-making journey.
Shop Bread-Making Essentials
Every baker needs a set of scales, but if you're looking for something that's as stylish as is functional, I'd choose a retro-inspired option like this one. The neutral tones and sleek metallic accents will compliment any kitchen.
Tapered rolling pins provide greater control and precision when working with sticky dough – and they'll make you feel like a real professional. I love this walnut wood option from Magnolia.
Nothing will transform your baking routine quite like a stand mixer. The classic tilt-head mixer from Kitchen Aid will save you so much time in the kitchen – and the walnut bowl looks utterly gorgeous, too.
A proofing basket is a crucial part of any bread-making setup, helping dough to hold its shape while it rises. The rattan material will even add a decorative finish to the bread once it has been baked.
A scraper will help you to divide, portion and lift dough while you're kneading and shaping it. It's a real lifesaver – and this one boasts a contemporary yet understated look.
Measuring spoons are a vital tool in any baker's arsenal, but they're also a wonderful opportunity to add some flair to your kitchen. This set is complete with gold accents for a warm, rustic finish.
From portioning out yeast and flour to seeds, herbs, and, of course, water, measuring cups are crucial. This set is sleek, sturdy, and subtly rustic, with a gentle pop of color provided by the hand-drawn labels.
The strong wire loops on a dough whisk are designed to work through thick or sticky batters, helping you to mix efficiently until you're left with a smooth, pliable dough. This humble tool is a real game-changer.
Ceramic pans are ideal if you're hunting for the best non-toxic cookware, and this loaf pan is guaranteed to bring some cottagecore charm to your collection. It's an oven-to-table hero.
If you're looking to invest in a bread oven, there's no better choice than Le Creuset. Sleek, durable and picture-perfect, this is a piece that you'll keep forever – and you'll definitely want to show it off in your kitchen.
You'll find yourself using plenty of dish towels during the bread-making process, so it's always worth investing in a few stylish options. Throw this one over your proofing basket and you'll feel like an expert.
A stoneware mixing bowl is a non-toxic baking staple, and I love the classic finish of this Mason Cash piece. The intricate botanical motifs and scalloped details are simply gorgeous.
The country grandmother-inspired tableware trend isn't going anywhere; in fact, it's heading straight for the world of kitchen storage. This gorgeous bread box is a truly timeless piece.
A loaf of homemade bread always deserves a moment in the spotlight – so a handsome serving board is a must-have. I love the smooth curves and rich tones of this acacia paddle.
Serve up slices of warm bread in a rustic basket like this one and your guests will be thoroughly impressed. I love a subtle nod to the scalloped decor trend.
Once you've curated all your bread-making tools, you'll need some recipes to try – and Clodagh McKenna's cheddar seeded sunflower bread is a brilliant place to start. It's simple, comforting, and a real crowd-pleaser.
