Small appliances are the workhorses of the kitchen. Take advantage of technology, and put these appliances to work for you. From the bread machine to the pressure cooker, you will probably fall in love with a gadget, and it will change your life! Well, not really, but it will get you out of the kitchen faster. And that's the point.
1. Kitchenaid Mixers and Accessories
Kitchenaid is the brand I choose for mixers. I have a stand mixer that allowed me to make divinity for the first time in my life! It's sturdy and hardworking and I wouldn't be without it. You'll be astounded at the list of available accessories. Whether you choose stand mixers or hand mixers (I have both), Kitchenaid brands won't let you down.
2. KitchenAid Mini Food Processor
I rely on my mini food processor. The bowl capacity is large enough for all but the biggest jobs. And I love the easy cleanup. Make pesto, bread crumbs, appetizer spreads, and more with these tiny, efficient appliances.
3. Breadman Bread Machines
Bread machines were first introduced in the 1990s and have become a kitchen staple. I love my Breadman machine, with its delayed timer start. It makes an excellent loaf, and when I want to make rolls or a shaped coffeecake instead, I just let the bread make the dough, then shape it myself. It's better than buying frozen dough!4. Black and Decker Blenders
This ubiquitous wedding gift can be a real workhorse in the kitchen. Use it to make bread crumbs, blend bisque soups, and make milkshakes for the kids in summer. If you didn't get one for your wedding, I recommend Black and Decker.5. Rival Slow Cookers
Where would we be without the crockpot? There's no other appliance that is so versatile and makes your life easier. I love coming home to a house filled with the aromas of savory beef stew. They're inexpensive - buy two!6. Toaster Ovens
I have always had a toaster oven in my kitchen. It's not just used for toast! It warms up leftovers, makes a tiny batch of cookies, and makes the best toasted cheese sandwich. This DeLonghi oven is the one I have in my house.7. Nut Choppers
Since I severely cut my finger chopping macadamia nuts while working in the Pillsbury test kitchens, I've preferred these rotary nut choppers over a chef's knife when chopping nuts. I brought mine to the Pillsbury kitchens and everybody was borrowing it! It cleans beautifully in the dishwasher and makes the most perfect consistency finely chopped nuts.8. George Foreman Grills
George Foreman Grills have become THE name in indoor grills. With these nifty little appliances, you can cook burgers and keep food warm all at the same time. I really like the floating hinges which let you cook food of almost any thickness. Get one today!9. Candy Thermometers
If you're going to make candy at home, you need a candy thermometer. This digital model has more bells and whistles than you'll know what to do with! It sounds an alarm when candy is reaching a set stage (soft ball, hard ball, soft crack, etc.) and is programmable. It's also great for testing liquid temperatures when you're making yeast breads.10. Rice Cookers
If you have ever had trouble cooking rice so it's fluffy, try a rice cooker. These nifty little machines cook rice perfectly, then even hold it and keep it warm up to 12 hours. That's one less thing to think about in the kitchen.