19 Gadgets Our Test Kitchen Uses Every Day
Updated: May 09, 2023
These tools are in constant use in the Test Kitchen. Find out why they're so loved.
GIR Silicone Spatula
Every home cook needs a trusty spatula. Whether it’s used to scrape down dry ingredients or ensure every last bit of brownie batter gets out of the bowl, this silicone tool from GIR gets the job done. Heat-resistant, stain-proof and available in 13 colors, the Ultimate Spatula is sturdy and stylish.
OXO Cookie Scoop
Achieve cookie perfection with this OXO cookie scoop. A soft, easy-to-grip handle makes scooping dough a breeze, while the rounded cavity ensures identical treats—perfect for our favorite cookie recipes.
Bonus: OXO recently launched a fridge organization line, too—you need to take a look at their fridge containers!
OXO Flexible Spatula
Guarantee smooth cuts of brownies or dessert bars with this flexible turner from OXO. The gadget’s thin head slides under food while a soft, non-slip handle keeps your hand comfortable.
Best Manufacturers Flat Whisk
When making sauces and gravies, you want to make sure you cover as much surface area as possible so your ingredients can properly incorporate. This flat whisk from Best Manufacturers makes it happen.
Tovolo Mini Tongs
Tongs are a kitchen must, and this mini pair from Tovolo is easy to use for nearly any task. We love how the heat-resistant silicone makes it easy to grab slippery pieces of bacon or slices of fresh fruit, and the short length gives you greater proximity and control over the food.
Prepara Juicer
If you’re tired of juicing an entire lemon just to use one teaspoon, then this gadget is for you. The Prepara juicer helps you squeeze out every last drop of juice from your favorite citrus fruits. As you squeeze, the juice trickles down into a glass reamer (complete with pouring spout!) that holds the liquid until you’re ready to use it in a great citrusy recipe.
OXO Small Cutting Board
If you’ve ever cut an apple on the same cutting board used to prep onions and garlic, you’ll understand the importance of a small, extra cutting board. This slim pick from OXO is perfect for keeping delicate (or pungent) flavors separate.
Thermapen Thermometer
Ensure a perfect cook with the Thermapen digital thermometer. This easy-to-use gadget obtains accurate readings in mere seconds, and it automatically rotates the display so you can view it from any angle. Available in 10 colors, the Thermapen is our Test Kitchen’s secret weapon for tender, juicy meat and golden-brown baked goods.
Architec Mini Sifter
Want professional-quality desserts? Reach for this adorable mini sifter. The durable gadget from Architec is perfect for dusting powdered sugar, cocoa powder and spices atop baked goods.
OXO Spiralizer
If you’re trying to eat low-carb or just want a few more veggies in your diet, a spiralizer is a must-have kitchen tool. This gadget from OXO makes turning produce into thin “noodles” a snap. Super-sharp stainless steel blades and a rotating handle make quick work of any vegetables you clamp in.
Not sure what to make with your new spiralizer? These are our favorite recipes to serve with zoodles.
Tovolo Lid Lifters
If you’ve ever scraped over-flow from a soup pot off of your burners, you need these lid lifters from Tovolo. Shaped like adorable farm animals, the silicone gadgets put a little distance between your pot and its lid to achieve perfect airflow. When the steam can escape, your pot contents stay put.
Norpro Dough Scraper
Whether you’re an avid baker or not, a dough scraper is a useful tool to have in the kitchen. This one from Norpro makes it easy to divide dough, chop veggies or cut fresh pasta. A rounded handle makes it easy to hold, while the rectangular blade effortlessly slices through ingredients.
GIR Slim Spatula
Get every last scoop of peanut butter out of the jar with this skinny spatula from GIR. It’s the perfect tool for reducing waste and mess.
Architec Colander
Sometimes you want to rinse a handful of berries without pulling out your massive colander. This little scoop colander from Architec makes it happen. We love the sleek, easy-to-hold handle and fun green color.
Kuhn Rikon Peeler
Peeling fruits and vegetables is often a dreaded task, but you can make the job a little easier with a Swiss peeler from Kuhn Rikon. The lightweight gadget features a super-sharp blade, and little grooves on the side of the handle make it easy to hold. We also love that the peeler comes in several fun colors and features a hole at the bottom of the handle for easy storage.
Wilton Offset Spatula
If you’ve ever wondered how professional bakers get that super-smooth finish on cakes and other baked goods, listen up. An offset spatula is our Test Kitchen’s go-to tool for evenly spreading batter and frosting. You’ll get a smooth finish without having to touch the treats with your hands.
OXO Salad Spinner
If you’re sick of salad greens going limp, try reviving them with this OXO salad spinner. The tool also works well for cleaning greens and drying herbs.
Fox Run Cookie Spatula
Did you accidentally place your cookies a little too close together? Don’t sweat. This cookie spatula from Fox Run makes it easy to slide under individual treats—even when they’re mere inches apart.
OXO Kitchen Scale
Don’t let inaccurate measurements ruin your recipe. This digital scale from OXO makes it easy to measure the perfect amount every time. A backlight and large display make the scale easy to read. Next, check out our best kitchen products.
Originally Published: October 01, 2020
