15 bread making essentials, starting at $5 - sourdough kits, scrapers and more

Whether you’re discovering breadmaking or looking to master it, these tools can help. (iStock) The right bread-making tools can transform your baking experience, so we’ve gathered the essentials to simplify the process, boost the fun, and cut down on the mess. Whether you’re baking your first loaf or still learning, tools like a Dutch oven , stand mixer or $5 bench scraper make things a lot earlier to manage. You can also try a sourdough starter kit for less than $40 or the DoughBed by Sourhouse warming system if you’re looking to level-up. All-in-one sourdough starter kit: $34.97 (13% off) Original price: $39.99 Master your skills in sourdough bread making with this all-in-one starter kit , which has everything you need to make a well-structured loaf, from a proofing basket and bread sling to a whisk, scoring lame and scrapers. A rattan proofing basket helps dough hold its shape as it rises, while the cloth liner makes it simple to release when it’s ready to bake. Plus, there’s access to an AI-powered app for smart tips to keep your starter on track. It’s an ideal kit for beginners or masters alike. Bench scraper: $4.99 Made from stainless steel, this bench scraper resists sticky dough, and the built-in 1-inch measurement marks help you portion dough evenly. Use it to clean countertops and save your hands from the mess. Beyond baking, the sharp edge works for chopping fruits and veggies. TOWELS, MITTS AND MORE: 14 KITCHEN ESSENTIALS NO HOME COOK SHOULD SKIP Silicone baking mat with measurements: $9.99 (44% off) Original price: $17.99 This silicone baking mat with built-in measurements offers portion guides for rolling, shaping and proofing your dough. Twice as thick as other baking mats, it holds up well and stays put on your counter. It also doubles as a nonstick liner for baking pans. Bread lame scoring tool: $9.99 Make clean, precise cuts in your dough before baking with this bread lame scoring tool . The push-pull grip gives you better control, and the magnetic design makes it easy to store right on your fridge. It comes with five sharp stainless-steel blades and a protective case to keep everything safe and tidy. From novice bakers to more experienced ones, this bread slasher works at any skill level. Bosch Universal Plus Stand Mixer: $449 (13% off) Original price: $519 For serious bread makers, the Bosch Universal Plus Stand Mixer is a powerhouse. With a 500-watt motor and bottom-drive design, it handles heavy doughs with ease, and the 6.5-quart BPA-free bowl has an easy-grip handle and removable drive shaft for a quick clean up. The mixing action mimics hand kneading as the hook stretches, folds and tucks the dough to build strong gluten and better structure. It comes with wire whips, a splash ring, lid and a dough hook extender. KitchenAid classic tilt-head stand mixer: $349.95 (30% off) Original price: $499.99 It won’t knead 15 pounds of dough like the Bosch, but this KitchenAid 5-quart stand mixer handles basic bread and...

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