For National Baking Month I asked on Instagram for your baking questions. When I got hundreds of responses, I decided to make this a series of posts on my site. So far we’ve discussed Pies + Pie Crust, Cakes + Decorating, Meringue, Bread Baking, vegan desserts and now Baking Equipment. If you have any questions I haven’t answered, please leave them in the comments and I’ll do my best to get to every comment that I can!
Your Baking Equipment Questions
- Favorite measuring cups and scale? I’ll start with the scale, because I want everyone to use one for baking! My favorite scale is the MyWeigh. My favorites are a sturdy metal set of dry measuring cups. I like a glass measuring cups that have both cups and ML for liquid measures.
- Could you give a list of essential baking tools and some nice extra tools to have?
- My most used equipment: Kitchen scale, really good rubber spatula, stand mixer, bench scraper, heavy gauge baking sheets.
- Makes baking easier: Cake turner, offset metal decorating spatulas. Pie plate, cake pans, flour jars.
- How do you organize all of your tools/bakeware? I organize my tools by type, so cake equipment stays together, measuring cups and mise bowls are near each other. I also situate them near where I will be using them, so I am not walking all over the kitchen when I need something. My mixing bowls, whisks, spatulas, jars of flour and sugar all sit very close to my stand mixers, so I can just reach for them in the middle of a project. I admit I am a hoarder of kitchen equipment and so I need a lot of space, but the essentials can really fit in a small space. Here’s a tour of the before and after of my kitchen from a long time ago! And here is an Instagram kitchen tour.
- Do you prefer gas or electric ovens for baking? I prefer to bake in an electric oven. The heat tends to be more even and especially with bread, the outcome is often better. When baking a crusty loaf of bread you need to add steam to the oven and the way gas ovens are vented, they don’t trap the steam, so your bread won’t rise as well and it won’t have a shiny crust. When I do bake bread in a gas oven, I use a Dutch Oven so that the steam is trapped in the pot.
- When should we use convection vs conventional oven? I almost never use the convection setting, unless the recipe specifically calls for it. The wind can brown the outside and leave the inside under baked, so it is best to go with flat heat for baking. If your oven only has convection heat, be sure to adjust the temperature down by about 20-25°F to make up for the intensity of the fan.
- Can I trust my countertop convection oven to bake yeasted breads? $0 to waste experimenting! Yes, my mom bakes her bread in one and it is terrific. She tends to make small loaves, so they fit beautifully. She also uses it for cakes, pizza and whatever else she is baking. It does take some experimenting, since it is convection and most baking recipes don’t call for that. So your bakes may be done sooner than the recipe calls for. Once you get to know the oven, you can adjust the baking times on a recipe.
- Do you have a favorite online shop for baking supplies, ingredients, etc.? I have curated a little shop of some of my favorite tools on Amazon. I also really trust the equipment sold at King Arthur Baking Company, Wilton and Williams Sonoma. There may also be local shops near you that sell good quality baking equipment that you want to support.
- Where do you get those white papers for your muffins? They are called tulip muffin papers and they are linked in the blueberry muffin blog post. You can find them here. or you can make your own, as I do in my blueberry muffin demo during my Magnolia Workshop.
- If you could only buy one, which is more versatile: 8×8 or 9×9 pan? I think I use my 8×8 more often.
- Best way to use silicone canele molds? I have copper molds and tend to use those more frequently, just because I find they caramelize a bit better, but the silicone don’t require all of the fussy prep. You’ll find my Instagram video on caneles here.
- Do you have a link for the embossed rolling pin? I got mine at JK Adams, but there is also a large selection here. in my Pie Q&A I talk about how to use this pin successfully to create an embossed pie crust.
- Do you have a favorite rolling pin? I am ready to tackle crust and want the right tools. I use handled rolling pins and French style pins the most. If I am working with a soft dough, I like the French style pin, because I can feel the dough better under it and I can have a gentler pressure. If I am working with a chilled stiff dough I like a pin with handles so I can put some force into it without it hurting my bony hands. There is no right or wrong rolling pin, just the one that feels the most comfortable. I would just suggest you have one that is large enough to cover the width of the dough you are using, it’s just easier to get an even dough.
- Is measuring with a scale better? It seems to be more popular overseas than here in US? Yes, it is better because it’s MUCH more accurate. Think of how differently we may all scoop flour into a measuring cup. Some people dip into a bag, some people level off, some people spoon it in. Those are all completely different weights and it is way harder to control the outcome that way. There are scales ranging from less than $10 to $80. My favorite scale is priced in the middle at about $45. A kitchen scale is a game changer if you’re trying to become a better baker. Plus, it often results in less dishes to wash!
- What stand mixer do you recommend? I have three and I discuss them all here!
- Where do you get the copper molds for your blueberry muffins? They are mini souffle molds from Mauviel.
- Favorite baking dishes/pans? Find all my essentials in my Amazon shop! This gift guide is also a good place to find out my recommended equipment.
- How to successfully use an ice cream scoop for cookies – they always stick like mad! Start with a sturdy, reliable scoop, that won’t fall apart with a thick cookie dough. Having said that, some cookie dough will stick to just about anything, so spraying with baking spray will help release the cookies from the scoop. You can also wipe it with any cooking oil. For some cookies, like meringue, dipping into hot water between scoops, then tapping dry, also works.
- Favorite cookbooks? I have hundreds of cookbooks and I receive multiple copies of cookbooks each week in the mail. But there are some that are tried and true that I bake from all of the time (see below). Here is my full list of cookbooks.
- Canelle et Vanille Bakes Simple by Aran Goyoaga
- Baking for the Holidays and 100 Cookies by Sarah Kieffer
- Baking with Dorie by Dorie Greenspan
- My Sweet Mexico by Fany Gerson
- Artisan Bread in Five Minutes a Day by Jeff Hertzberg and me!
- and of course, Zoë Bakes Cakes!
Zöe, do you use only Gold Medal flour for all your baking?
Hello Zoe,
Thanks so much for your baking series. I love the explanations and equipment info. My question pertains to cinnamon. I know there are many kinds of cinnamon, what kind of cinnamon do you use for your cinnamon rolls? BTW, they are terrific! Any recommendation on what cinnamon to use when?
Many thanks.
Hi Janet, thanks so much for your question. We’re delighted to hear you enjoy Zoë’s cinnamon rolls! In terms of cinnamon, Zoë has many different kinds (Ceylon, Indonesian (lighter), Saigon, Vietnamese (a little bit darker), Cassia cinnamon) but most people would not notice a difference in the type when it’s baked into a recipe. If you were to get several different kinds for a taste test, you may notice subtle differences. Here is a great article on cinnamon from Bon Appetit. I hope this helps!
Stephani:
In season three, I noticed Zoe’s double door oven. Can you tell me the brand?
Yes! It’s from Blue Star.
Stephanie, I’m wondering if Zöe uses Gold Medal Flour for all her baking.
Thanks
Hi Wendy! All of the recipes in Zoë’s books are based on Gold Medal Flour. She also uses King Arthur Flour sometimes (you’ll see it in some recipes on zoebakes.com), but it has a higher protein content than Gold Medal. She’s also a huge fan of locally milled flour from Baker’s Field Flour & Bread in her bread recipes. I hope this helps!
Thanks so much, Stephani. I think that Canadian all purpose flour has a much higher protein content that even King Arthur so I will try to pick up some Gold Medal flour once we can get back to the U.S.
Where can I get the white and brown leaves footed mixing bowl Zoe uses when making her peach pie.
Iam in love with that mixing bowl !
Hi Barb! This bowl is quite old and was a gift to Zoë from a family member. Someone shared this similar one on ebay: https://www.ebay.com/itm/353233402368
Trying to locate the red/brown pizza stone you use in your oven?
Please advise
Thanks!
Lou
Hi Lou, that specific one you’re referring to is from Emile Henry. You can find links to all her pizza equipment here!
How do you use the scale for measuring? Is it set in cups or pounds
Hi Bonnie! Typically with a scale you use grams, ounces or ml. Lots of recipes offer both the cups and grams/oz and if they don’t, you can calculate it yourself by using the nutrition label on your ingredients. I hope this helps!
Yes thank you would love to see if there is a conversation chart somewhere
Here is an example!
Thank you
Regarding equipment, on the Pizza Farm episode you used a pizza peel with holes in it – why? I have one used at a pizza shop in Vegas but wondering the advantages and where to find them.
Hi Diana! Zoë’s perforated pizza peel came with the pizza oven, which is why it has such a long handle. It allows the heat to release without making the bottom soggy. Zoë uses a non perforated one when she bakes pizza in the house.
What brand electric ovens does Zoe bake in at home?
Hi Lois, Zoë’s ovens are from Bosch and they no longer make the model she has. She is actually in the market to replace them!
Thank you for your reply to my question about what brand wall ovens Zoe has/had in her kitchen. I’m probably over-thinking it, but have been looking for a new wall oven and seem to want something that isn’t made anymore. Just a solid performing baking oven without all the electronic stuff. Did Zoe find a new brand of wall ovens? If so, could you share what she decided on? I also love to bake cakes, pies, breads, cookies.
Thank you!
Hi Lois, Zoë ended up getting Blue Star electric wall ovens. I hope this helps!
Hello Zoe I see you and several chefs using your wooden salt box container that has a lid with it and I think has 3 compartments in it. PLEASE tell me where I can buy one. Thank you so much. Hope to hear from you soon. My sister and I love watching your show on Magnolia Network.
Hi Sandy! Zoë’s salt box was a gift from Cooks of Crocus Hill, but they no longer have them and she is working on having some made. Stay tuned for when they will be available! Be sure to follow her on Instagram or Facebook or sign up for her newsletter to know when they’re available. So glad to hear you’re loving her show!
Hello! Curious if the wooden salt boxes with lid are available for purchase yet?
Hi Zoe! I’m referencing back to a February 2022 post where you mention you were working on having some salt box containers made. Is this something that could possibly be available in time for a Mother’s Day present? Absolutely LOVE your show!!!
What Verona chocolate does Zoe use?
Hi Joan! Zoë uses lots of different kinds of Valrhona chocolate, it will depend on the recipe. Did you have a specific recipe in mind?
Am wondering where Zoe got the beautiful large whit and pink bowl she used in a couple of her episodes when she was making a cake. It is a large bowl and it’s beautiful.
Hi Nellie, This bowl is quite old and was a gift to Zoë from a family member. Someone shared this similar one on ebay: https://www.ebay.com/itm/353233402368
Ok thank you.
How do you know when to use salted vs no salt butter when baking
Hi Zoe
I have a pie crust question that I don’t think anyone asked.
When I make an apple pie the delicious bubbly inside starts to drip over the edge.
It doesn’t ruin the pie it just makes a big mess!
Any tips would be appreciated.
A very old recipe I use suggests to cook the apples down with a bit of water which I do.
I only use Cortland apples.
I also add a bit of cornstarch in the sugar cinnamon mix which should help thicken it I thought but…
Hi Diane, Zoë’s pies also spill over–it’s the nature of the filling. You could try a few things to avoid mess: use a deeper pie plate, try a little less filling, or you could also try baking with a sheet pan beneath it to catch any spills. I hope this helps for next time!
I noticed your bottle of vanilla extract and the large amount of pods…how long will the pods last before you have to discard? I assume you continue to replenish the bottle with vodka? Also, I love those bowl covers, where I can find them?
Hi Beverly! Zoë does not discard her vanilla pods, she just keeps reusing, adding vodka, and adding more vanilla pods as she has them. The beeswax bowl covers can be found here. Enjoy!
Hi there! I’m in love with the beaker-style measuring cups that she uses, but I can’t find them online anywhere. Do you mind sharing where they are from? Thank you! We are thoroughly enjoying the show.
Hi Katie! So glad to hear you’re enjoying the show. Those measuring cups are from Ikea and it looks like they still sell them. Enjoy!
Hi Zoe! I’ve started baking the artisan bread after buying your book, but my question is: what’s the best way to store it? Have a container recommendation?
Hi Kerry! The bread and its crust are best the day the bread is made, but if you have some left over, just be sure to avoid plastic. A cloth or paper bag are good options. Enjoy!
Zoe’s essential equipment list shows 3 bread knives. One is Wusthof, two are Shun. Can you summarize the differences and preference? Thank you.
Those are all bread knives that Zoë owns and she likes them all. She doesn’t have a particular favorite over another!
Thank you!
I was curious if Zoe and her team might have an oven thermometer recommendation. I’m taking a whack at baking bread after reading her and Jeff’s book and I know my oven is inconsistent. However, (as with most things lolz) thermometer options are overwhelming.
Hi Erin! Absolutely. Zoë has one in her Amazon shop, but you can also get them at a local hardware store, Target or Walmart. Zoë has even tested her oven with 2 thermometers to make sure she gets an accurate read. I hope this helps!
Thank you Stephani! Kudos for all the resources and information sharing — top notch!
Happy to help! I’m so glad it’s useful.
Hi! I’m curious about the food processor Zoe uses. I’m I. The market and I see hers has a seeming large capacity. What brand/model is her food processor?
Thank you
Hi Sandy! Here is a link to Zoë’s food processor.
I would love to know where you get your aprons from and also the metal scoopers that I always see you getting your flour out with.
Hi Bonnie! If you are interested, Zoë just opened a shop to sell her aprons! You can find it here: https://zoebakesshop.myshopify.com/
Love Zoe!! Just found her and I am learning so very, very much. I was wondering where I might find the gorgeous, huge container that she stores her rolling pins in? If you have any ideas that would be awesome because I’d like to store mine the same brilliant way. But I can’t seem to find a container large/sturdy enough. Thank you so much for all that you do and your wonderful generosity. Take good care!! Valerie
The problem with the old school bakeware made of metal is that they rust.
What brand of food processor does Zoe use??
Hi Susan, Zoë uses a Cuisinart food processor (affil. link).
Love the big white mixing bowl that Zoe uses in season 3. Looks like a leaf or herb pattern. Whose is it?
Hi Marsha! This bowl is quite old and was a gift to Zoë from a family member. Someone shared this similar one on ebay: https://www.ebay.com/itm/353233402368
Hi team Zoe,
Could you please tell me what size plastic container with lid zoe uses for mixing and refrigerating her dough in season one
Thanks
Sal
Hi Sal! Yes, it is 6 quarts. You can find all the tools Zoe uses for baking bread in her Amazon shop: https://www.amazon.com/shop/influencer-f16c0b55/list/1BWWBH18T2BFJ?ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ofs_list_d
You said that Zoe has the double door electric oven by Blue Star. Could you give the model number or supply a link? Thanks
Hi Nancy, here is a link to her oven.
Greetings from Green Bay, WI
I not only enjoy but come away with inspiration after watching each of your episodes. Two “equipment” questions –
1. What brand of parchment sheets do you prefer working with?
2. Your dough container with lid that you use for rising your bread recipes. What brand is your, I like the square taller shape and think it will work well in my smaller kitchen and/or refrigerator?
Thanks for taking the time to answer.
Hi Jean,
Thank you so much for watching the show! It means so much to Zoë. There are a few brands Zoe uses. Here is a link to a brand called Katbite and another brand Ann Clark. Please note these are affiliate links. I hope this helps!
Her 6 qt bucket for making dough is by Cambro.
Where can I get the large white and brown bowl used on the peach pie episode. You mixed the pie dough and used it for the ice bath?
Hi Karen! It is an antique given to Zoë many years ago.
I just watched the August 20, 2023 episode, which has Zoe using a new food processor than the one she was using in 2022. I am dying to own this food processor. I’m pretty sure it’s a Cuisinart but I don’t know which model. Help!
Hi Joyce! Here is a link to her Cuisinart food processor. Please note it is an affiliate link.
Hello Stephani. Love the show thanks for answering all these questions!
I too am looking for the food processor and the one link you sent I don’t think that’s it the one she uses is rounder and it has on pulse off buttons on the front they’re not pedals. Burushed nickel or silver. Can you help? Also what is the size of the peeler she uses on the apple episode I want to get one. Thanks!!
Hi Wendy, Thanks so much for watching! Glad to hear you enjoy the show. I made sure to confirm with Zoe that the one I linked is the one she uses in the episode! It is a slightly different color than the one in the link. And here is a link to her Rosle Vegetable Peeler. (affiliate link). Cheers!
Wendy, I to wanted Zoe’s rounded food processor. I wrote in a day or two before you. The food processor on Amazon which you guided to is no longer available on Amazon, but that is the food processor she used only in the color silver. I was able to find it at Lowe’s and at Home Depot. I think it’s also available on the Cuisinart website but I paid less for it at the hardware store.
Are the 2023 Shows available to watch on Magnolia Channel through Discovery?
Hi Bonnie, there are three seasons of Zoe Bakes and all three are available on discovery+, Max and the Magnolia | Time Well Spent app. Season 3 is just now airing on cable.
Hello Zoe,
I enjoy watching every episode of your show. You are amazing!
When making the Ultimate Carrot Cake, you use a very large, beautifully painted ceramic mixing bowl.
Please tell me the brand and where you got it from.
Hi Marianne, That mixing bowl is an antique given to Zoe many years ago. Cheers!
On the episode, where Zoe bakes an angel food cake and visits the state fair, she used a strainer to sift her dry ingredients. I had one of those years and years ago. I don’t know what happened to it, but I would love to have another one. I like it in particular because it has a very large flat bottom so it saves a lot of product at one time. Can you provide a link where I might purchase this? Thank you.
Hi Joyce! Zoë thinks she picked up this strainer at an Asian market.