Aaah ’tis the season to run around to 25 different stores spending an arm and a leg looking for that perfect gift for a loved one. WRONG. Stop the shenanigans…it’s madness! I’m here to help you ease that holiday stress during the sometimes overwhelming holiday season.
Do you have a baker in your life and just don’t know what to get them this holiday season? Or maybe you have an acquaintance that you don’t know so well, but pulled their name out of the secret Santa hat and are at a loss what to get them. Look no further! Here is a list of 10 affordable gifts for bakers that are guaranteed to please even the Scroogeiest Scrooge.
1. Sprinkles
Sprinkles not only make a great stocking stuffer, but they’re highly customizable for the baker in your life. If you have a bulk food store in your local area this is usually the best place to find a wide variety of options and colors. These are also very affordable so you can get the most bang for your buck with this item.
2. Whisk
This is a must-have in any kitchen from mixing brownies to making fluffy icing. The standard size usually does the job, but sets with multiple sizes are very useful to have on hand.
3. Handheld Mixer
Depending on your budget you can really go crazy here ranging from $10.00 up to $130.00 on the high-end. Handheld mixers are really just for the basics, but they get the job done so make sure to stick within your budget when looking at these.
4. Mixing Bowls
These come in multiple colors and sizes from small all the way to large and extra large. Usually buying them in a set is a better deal and will be very useful for your baker to have many options. If you want to be extra, the mixing bowls with the grip on the bottom are suuuper helpful!
5. Prep Bowls
When looking for prep bowls, small glass or metal bowls are the best so they can stack easily in the cupboard. A set of 4-5 will do the job; make sure they are dishwasher safe for easy clean-up.
6. Silicone Spatulas
These are a personal favorite because they really grip to the side of the bowl and are very easy to clean. Hello, dishwasher! Both small and regular sized spatulas will do the job.
7. Parchment Paper
Now, I know this might seem like an odd gift, but it’s so practical it almost goes unnoticed. It’s one of the most important items in the pantry. There is no worse feeling than getting ready to bake a batch of cookies and realizing the roll of parchment paper ran out last week. It’s also very affordable, but nearly priceless especially during the holidays!
8. Flour
Here you can really cater to your baker and is something that is guaranteed they will use. If you know your baker is gluten free or likes specialty flours, this is where you can really splurge. Hot item: almond four. You can find almond flour at almost any local grocery store, but it can be pricy compared to all-purpose flour. There are a multitude of options, but if you don’t know where to start all-purpose flour and fine pastry flour are winners and are affordable.
9. Assorted Spices
Spices are fun to bake with, but should be replaced every so often so they don’t go bad. Don’t worry if your baker already has a certain spice. Just use your creativity and have some fun. Warming spices are always useful: cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg and ginger.
10. Apron
Here is where some customization can come in and can be personalized through online stores if you want to splurge or just stick with the basics. Most big box stores have nice quality options and is an item that will be appreciated when those hands are covered in sugar and flour!
Hot holiday tip: bundle any of these items as a starter set for a beginner baker!
Happy holidays! And don’t stress…it’s just baking!
