Tara’s Bread Baking Supplies List
When you’re just starting out with bread baking—or even if you’re ready to level up your skills—it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of tools and gadgets available. But here’s the good news: you don’t need a fancy kitchen stocked with every possible accessory to bake incredible bread. Sourdough is wonderfully simple at its core, and with just a few essentials, you can feel confident crafting satisfying loaves amongst the bustle of daily life.
That said, there’s also a joy in discovering tools that make the process smoother, more efficient, or just plain fun. Whether you’re working with what you have or looking to slowly build your collection, it’s all part of the journey. I break this supplies list down into two categories: the must-haves to get you started and the optional tools you can accumulate as you go. No matter where you are in your baking journey, these tips will help you set yourself up for success—and maybe even inspire a little extra excitement for your next bake.
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MUST HAVE / HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Kitchen Scale – Non-negotiable for consistent bakes and just an all-around great investment for any kitchen.
I also love this Kitchenaid option with a smaller scale pad for measuring lighter ingredients like salt and yeast as well as your standard section.
Instant Thermometer – The ThermoPro Instant Read is a worthy investment for quick, reliable results for bread, meats, and more.
Bench Scraper – Because it’s important to cut, not tear, your dough. Comes with bonus bowl scraper too.
Shower Caps – Reusable bowl covers that keep your dough from developing a dry crust while cutting back on single-use plastic.
Loaf Pans Set (or splurge on loaf sized Dutch Oven) – My favorite vessel for baking sourdough, these pans hold up to the frequent use of our cottage bakery.
Kitchen Sink Drain Basket Strainer – Protect your plumbing from being plastered by starter or dough!
Oven Mitt Gloves – Keeps your hands and arms safe and dextrous while working with high oven temps.
Good Bread Knife or Bow Knife – These options work well in our kitchen for smoothly slicing through crusty bread.
Beeswax Bread Bags or Plastic Bread Bags – Your best storage solutions to keep your loaves fresh in our drier climate.
Danish Dough Whisk – Makes easier work of mixing your dough.
OPTIONAL TOOLS TO CONSIDER
Wide Silicone Brush – This one is the same width as a loaf pan and makes quick work of oiling your pans.
Binder Clips – Metal clips that can withstand the high oven temps sourdough require; holds your loaf lid securely.
Glass Mixing Bowls – Glass is best for monitoring your bulk ferment rise.
Flour Sack Towels – For covering loaves while cooling.
Mini Sieve – Great for dusting flour on loaves for fancier scoring.