Mel's Kitchen Cafe

Favorite Things

Below, you’ll find a smattering of some of my most-used, favorite kitchen items. Everything from bakeware to utensils and bowls to appliances. If it’s listed here, it’s because I own it, I love it, I can’t live without it.

Some (not all) of the links below are Amazon affiliate links, but as always, feel free to shop around for the best deal.

Disclaimer: I am a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for me to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

Appliances

Vitamix Blender

Lots of debate in the world of high-powered blenders. The Vitamix wins in my book!

Pellet Smoker + Grill

I’ve had this grill (an older model) for years; I use it several times a week! Best grill ever.

Slow Cooker

Simple is best when it comes to slow cookers – I love this 8-quart, non-electronic version. It doesn’t cook hot; it’s durable and perfect.

Simple Electric Juicer

This inexpensive electric juicer is perfect for larger jobs (like homemade lemonade!).

Powerful Hand Mixer

This hand mixer is a beast – I’ve had mine for years and it is going strong!

Instant Pot

Yes, I’m one of those crazy Instant Pot lovers and proud of it. I have the 6-quart and 8-quart and often use both at the same time. Dinner saver!

Wheat Grinder

Another appliance I’m not sure I could live without – I’ve been using this amazing KoMo grain mill for almost 10 years. It sits on my counter and I grind wheat every day using it.

KitchenAid Stand Mixer

I don’t use my KitchenAid as much as my Bosch, but it is useful for a lot of things. I bought mine at Costco, but it’s similar to the one linked.

Bosch Stand Mixer

I love my Bosch. More than words. Can’t live without it and use it every day to prove myself of that fact.

Food Processor

After having two Cuisinart food processors die on me, I bought this Breville one and it’s been going strong for years – totally worth the investment!

Ice Cream Maker

Easy homemade ice cream in just minutes! This little counter top appliance is amazing.

Waffle Iron

I like having a waffle iron like this that can make four square waffles – perfect for mornings at our house.

Baking Favorites

Measuring Spoons

Measuring Spoons

These measuring spoons are practical and perfect (just what you need in a measuring spoon in case you didn’t know!).

All-Purpose Measuring Cups

Durable and perfect for any baking or cooking project! Plus, those numbers won’t wear off. Hallelujah!

Pastry Board/Cloth

I stopped swearing when rolling out pie crusts (and other pastries) once I got this pastry board/cloth. It is life changing. I’ve had mine for years and it’s still going strong.

Large Bread Pan

I love this nonstick bread pan for quick breads!

Cookie Cutters

Love the variety in this simple but fun set of cookie cutters!

Basic Rolling Pin

Love this thing – durable, sturdy, inexpensive, and works like it should.

9X13-Inch Metal Pan

I love this 9X13-inch metal pan so much that I have two – it comes with a tight-fitting cover, which is so handy.

Pizza Peel/Paddle

This pizza peel makes homemade pizza making a total breeze.

French Bread Pans

Not necessary, but pretty darn fun – this French bread pan makes, well, perfect French bread.

Mini Muffin Tin

Perfect nonstick mini muffin tin.

9X13-Inch Ceramic Pan

I love this classy ceramic 9X13-inch pan (bonus: it comes in red and blue, too!)

9X13-Inch Glass Baking Pan

Who can honestly live without this versatile baking pan? Not me!

Cookware

Stovetop Pressure Cooker

This is like the Cadillac of pressure cookers – I love this thing and have a feeling it will be around to hand down to my grandchildren.

Farberware Pots and Pans

I know there are higher-ranked cookware sets on the market, but this Farberware set has seen me through over a decade.

Enameled Cast Iron Pot

I don’t have a Le Creuset to compare, but this much more affordable cast iron pot is awesome. I use it most to make no-knead bread.

Griddle

I use this griddle almost daily: pancakes, French toast, flatbread, tortillas, etc.

Electric Skillet

This electric skillet is so handy when making larger batches or if your stovetop is maxed out.

12-Inch Stainless Steel Skillet

I use this skillet every single day. It is one of the most versatile cooking tools I have (and it has a lid!).

12-Inch Nonstick Skillet

I use this skillet every single day. It is one of the most versatile cooking tools I have (and it has a lid!).

Utensils/Bowls/Gadgets

Small Whisk

I actually think I use this whisk more than any other. It’s the perfect size for small bowls…but also for larger batches!

Over the Sink Colander

This over-the-sink colander changes everything.

All-Purpose Spatula

This versatile spatula is great for pancakes, cookies – you name it!

Rada Bread Knife

I love this inexpensive, PERFECT bread knife! Been using it for years and it’s the best bread knife I’ve had.

Pastry Brush

Simple and effective, this silicone pastry brush works great!

Cookie/Brownie Spatula

This is the only spatula I use to get those cookies off the pan! Simple, simple!

Small Offset Spatula

I use this small offset spatula for so many things – one of the most oft-used tools in my kitchen.

All-Purpose Whisk

A great whisk for just about everything!

Small Paring Knife

I can’t say enough good about this inexpensive, durable paring knife. It’s one of our most oft-used knives!

My Favorite Knives

I love these knives from New West Knifeworks. I have the G-Fusion Chopper, Petty Utility Knife, and Santoku.

Inexpensive Glass Pitcher

I love this glass pitcher so much, I have two! From Crate and Barrel, it is $15 or less and super durable and pretty!

Zeal Cook’s Spoon {My Fave Spoon EVER}

I’ve given full on sermons about how much I love these life-changing silicone (with metal insert) spoons. You can find them cheaper if you are local to a Utah Harmon’s grocery store.

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