Recipes of unique and elaborate creations, Twitter due to explode into a critical frenzy of sofa judges, and viewers eagerly awaiting a surge in jealousy and inspiration, it can only mean one thing The Great British Bake Off is back!
A social buzz has already begun as we welcome Mary Berry back onto our screens, and quite frankly I cannot wait! Even though I am not the most fantastic chef in the world, I love to give things a go particularly where baking is concerned. I have already looked at what I need update in my kitchen kit, so that is essentially what I'm going to be talking you through today. How can you get your kitchen GBBO ready?
// Mixer
First thing I have to say, (and is top of my list) is a mixer of some description. I spent years denying myself of one because I thought I could do it just as fine without. I was very, very wrong. When I finally gave in and got one, baking was so much easier - admittedly I've had to up my weight training to compensate, (due to muscles not being used as much!) but my cakes and homemade goodies have been so much more light and fluffy because of it.
// Basic utensils and accessories
The other day I was doing a kitchen clear out and realised I needed new basic utensils, i.e. whisk, rolling pin, spatula. etc I've had the same ones probably since university, and whilst they still work fine they are looking rather old now. I want something new and preferably nothing that has been half melted because I burnt it!
- Rolling pin- Measuring cups
- Pastry brush- Sieve- Spatula- Whisk
- Mixing bowls
*Paul Hollywood Springform Cake Tin
// Baking Tins
If cakes are your thing, then having a good set of tins is pretty much a priority! Look out for something easy to get your cake out of, like the Paul Hollywood one above.
*Tala Icing Bag and Nozzle Set // Icing kit
It wouldn't be bake off without some reference along the way about icing! I am not the best at icing and would really like to improve this year, so getting a decent kit may help me along my way.
*Bluebellgray Fine China 12 Piece Set// Crockery
Presentation is everything in GBBO, so if you have a fabulous looking plate to pop it on then you're really on your way to the win. I have basic white plates, (even though I do think you should have a basic white set) having something for a special occasion as well is a good move.
*PiP Studio Bloomingdales 3 Tier Cake Stand// Cake stand
This has got to be the most obvious right? I'd say two kinds of cake stand should be in your reach. You'll need one for your Victoria sponge in the form of a single tier, then I'd suggest a 3 tier cake stand in case you fancy making cup cakes. Maybe you could try my Gin and Tonic ones here.
*Emma Bridgewater Polka Dot Cake Tins // Storage
You don't always want cakes on display so best to have nice tins that you could potentially leave out on the side. They're pretty and great for when you have guests over for tea and cake... which is essentially why we love to bake!
I'm feeling almighty hungry just thinking about GBBO. I may even head off to the kitchen now and bake some cakes for the bank holiday weekend. Are you feeling inspired by GBBO this year? What do you want to learn to bake?
*Post in collaboration with John Lewis*
