The need for social distancing has you locked up at home and if you are like us you are likely to feel a little anxious. To combat that feeling, instead of lying down to watch Netflix, we offer you a much healthier alternative: take the opportunity to improve your skills as a pastry chef.
You finally have time to devote more love to what you prepare to eat each day, so do it. You will surprise those who live with you and, most importantly, you will surprise yourself. With the help of these accessories that we have selected, you will also have it very easy.
Fancy Panz Travel Casserole Carrier (from $ 29; food52.com)
Do you have an elderly relative or neighbor who lives nearby? Bake something and hand it to him in one of these handy packaging. The lid with window allows you to see what is inside. And it can be partially removed to make it easier to cut and serve without filling everything with crumbs and debris.
Nordic Ware Dog Treat Pan ($ 26; food52.com)
You have made cookies, cakes, muffins and even a cake. Does your dog not deserve a reward too? This cute aluminum skillet makes 16 bone-shaped dog treats that will be a big hit in your home.
Pooch Cake Wheatless Peanut Butter Cake Mix ($ 5.99, originally $ 6.99; chewy.com)
If you don't know where to start to cook dog biscuits with the tray above, this is a good place. Just add water, an egg and vegetable oil to this mix and you will be your dog's best friend forever.
Le Petit Chef Kid's Knife and Apron Set ($ 74; food52.com)
Take advantage of these days to interest the little ones in the house about the kitchen. They will thank you for the rest of their lives. This chef-worthy set includes a 4-inch kitchen knife, finger guard, and peeler, all designed to prevent injury and teach the proper hand position for cutting. Add an adorable apron and your favorite cookbook, and in no time your son or daughter will be cooking for you.
Maid Millie Homemade Sourdough Bread Kit ($ 29; uncommongoods.com)
Is there anything more comforting than the smell of fresh bread when it comes out of your kitchen? Add a craft touch to your bread with this kit, which includes everything except flour and baking utensils. Best of all (in addition to that wonderful scent)? Once the dough has grown, it bakes in just 15 minutes.
Farm Steady Pretzel & Beer Cheese Kit ($ 25; uncommongoods.com)
Did someone say "virtual happy hour"? Just because you're having a pint with your friends on Skype instead of at their favorite pub doesn't mean you can't give yourself a tribute. This set comes ready to bake up to 12 pretzels and make beer cheese at home. Just put in the milk, butter, beer and baking soda, and get ready to turn your office area into a real beer garden .
Lekue USA Milk and Cookie Shot Glass Making Kit ($ 18; uncommongoods.com)
Dominique Ansel, also known as the genius who brought the cronut to the world, has created this set of eight cookie cutter cups. Then you can fill them with berries, mousse, whipped cream or your favorite ice cream for a dessert that will make even the most stressed out of your family smile.
Babycakes Mini Cake Pop Maker ($ 24.99; bedbathandbeyond.com)
When life gives you self-isolation, make cake pops! When the family is bored, gather them in the kitchen and make a batch of these sweets. Just spray this device with oil, add the dough, close the lid, and in a few minutes, you'll have nine delicious treats that you can wrap in chocolate, sprinkle, or just eat warm. Bonus: When are you done? Just wipe it off with a paper towel. Zero disorder.
LetGoShop Silicone Cupcake Bags ($ 8.99; amazon.com)
In times of anxiety, one thing helps calm our nerves: cupcakes. Bake a batch or two, or four, with these BPA-free silicone reusable cups. Non-stick and in four cute shapes (heart, rose, star, and round) that come in six pretty colors, they'll make you forget your favorite local bakery in no time.
Kate Spade Kitchen Towel, Oven Mitt, Pot Holder Set ($ 33.33, originally $ 35; amazon.com)
The next time you're looking for something sweet to go with your morning coffee, we won't feel so guilty if we look at these wise tips on the kitchen counter, reminding us that it's okay to eat cake for breakfast.
Drew Derose Ceramic Food Canister Set of 3 ($ 79.99; target.com)
Are your baking ingredients stuffed in the pantry, hidden in old plastic containers, or even in the paper bags they are sold in? Give your flour, sugar and even your coffee the star treatment with these stoneware jars. With airtight wooden tops and pretty lettering, they're stylish enough to be left on the counter. Easier access to ingredients for making cookies? Yes please.
HearthSong Crafty Creations Mini Cake Maker Kit ($ 34.98; target.com)
Are you at home with the children and desperate to find projects? Have them bake cakes. This sweet kit includes a rolling pin, mat, cake pans and presses, a cutter, tartlets and other tools you will need to make eight mini cakes. You will have to supply the ingredients, but the kit includes recipes, as well as 20 gift boxes so that they can transmit love to the neighbors.
Kate Spade New York Arch Street 4-Piece Measuring Cup Set ($ 39.99; bedbathandbeyond.com)
When your measuring cups start to get old, replacing them with something fancy and shiny can only be a good idea. This set of gold-tone stainless steel measuring cups includes 1 cup, ½ cup, ⅓ cup and ¼ cup sizes.
Food52 x Mason Cash Cane Batter Bowl ($ 40; food52.com)
Stuck at home and addicted to "Sugar Rush", "The Great British Baking Show" and other baking series on Netflix? Get inspired and use this beautiful limited edition stoneware mixing bowl that is not only dishwasher and microwave safe but comes with a spout to make pouring easier.
Kilner Butter Blender ($ 36.95; amazon.com)
When you suddenly find yourself at home with free time, you can start tackling all those DIY projects you've been thinking about doing for years: learning how to cross-stitch, brew your own beer, or even whip your own butter. This tool will allow you to cross out the last one on your list. Complete with a glass jar, blender, and basic instructions for making butter, it also includes flavored butter recipes (cinnamon, parmesan basil, chili .... mmmmm).
Note: The above prices reflect the price at the time of article posting.
