Favorite Kitchen Items

Janie’s List: My Favorite Kitchen Items

If you’ve spent any time in the kitchen, you know the value of having the right tools. Cooking and baking are more than just making food—they’re about creating moments, gathering people, and enjoying the process. Over the years, I’ve curated a collection of kitchen essentials that help me do just that. From old favorites to modern must-haves, here are my go-to kitchen items that I can’t live without:

1. Cake Strips: A Baker's Best Friend
If you love baking cakes as much as I do, then you know the struggle of uneven layers. Enter cake strips! These little wonders help cakes bake evenly, preventing that dreaded dome in the middle. I use them every time I bake a cake, and they’ve truly been a game-changer for getting that perfectly level, moist finish. Your cakes will thank you!

2. Commercial-Grade KitchenAid Stand Mixer: My Powerhouse
This KitchenAid stand mixer is a serious workhorse in my kitchen. Whether I’m whipping up fluffy meringues, kneading dough, or mixing up a batch of cookies, it’s always up to the task. I opted for the commercial-grade version, which means it can handle anything I throw at it (or in it!). I’ve had mine for years, and it’s still going strong—a true kitchen essential!

3. Shun Knives: Sharp and Stylish
A good knife makes all the difference, and my Shun knives are hands-down the best I’ve ever used. They are sharp, perfectly balanced, and a joy to work with. Whether I’m chopping veggies, slicing meat, or even mincing herbs, these knives glide through everything like butter. Plus, they look so beautiful on the countertop—form meets function at its finest!

4. End Grain Cutting Board: The Perfect Prep Station
I adore my end grain cutting board, and it’s one of those pieces that I consider an investment in both function and beauty. It’s gentle on my knives and incredibly durable, and the natural wood grain adds a warm, rustic touch to my kitchen. It’s a solid, sturdy surface that I use daily, from chopping to serving.

5. Annieglass Serving Dishes: Elegant Entertaining
For special occasions or just a lovely family dinner, I reach for my Annieglass serving dishes. They are so elegant and versatile, adding a touch of sophistication to any table setting. The way they catch the light is truly something special, and they’re perfect for showcasing delicious dishes. I love mixing them with more casual pieces for a balanced, beautiful table.

6. Hand-Painted Dishes: Adding a Personal Touch
My collection of hand-painted dishes is another favorite in my kitchen. Each piece tells a story and adds a unique, artisanal feel to every meal. I’ve collected these over the years from different places and artists, and they bring so much charm and personality to my table settings. There’s something so special about serving food on a piece of art!

7. Offset Spatula: Cake Decorating Essential
When it comes to decorating cakes, an offset spatula is a must. It allows for such precise control, making it easier to spread frosting smoothly and create those beautiful, professional-looking edges. I use mine for everything from icing cakes to smoothing out batter in a pan. It’s a small tool that makes a big difference!

8. Instant Pot: The All-in-One Wonder
If there’s one modern kitchen gadget that has truly revolutionized my cooking, it’s the Instant Pot. This versatile appliance can do it all—pressure cooking, slow cooking, steaming, sautéing, and even making yogurt! It’s perfect for busy days when I need to get dinner on the table fast without sacrificing flavor. From tender stews to perfectly cooked rice, my Instant Pot has become a kitchen essential.

9. Air Fryer: Crispy Without the Guilt
I absolutely love my air fryer for quick, healthy meals and snacks. It gives that satisfying crispiness without the need for deep frying, making it perfect for everything from crispy Brussels sprouts to chicken tenders. Plus, it’s so easy to use and clean up, which is always a bonus in a busy kitchen!

10. Sous Vide: Precision Cooking at Its Finest
For those who appreciate perfectly cooked meat and vegetables, the sous vide is a must-have. It allows you to cook food to the exact level of doneness, ensuring tender, juicy results every time. I love using my sous vide for everything from steak to eggs—it brings a restaurant-quality touch to home cooking!

These kitchen favorites are more than just tools—they are a part of my daily rhythm, adding beauty, functionality, and joy to every cooking and baking experience. From my trusty KitchenAid that’s seen many a batch of cookies to my beloved hand-painted dishes that bring color and life to the table, each piece brings something special to the kitchen. What are your favorite kitchen items? Share them below—I’d love to hear what makes your time in the kitchen more delightful!

Happy cooking, friends! 🍽️