15 Must-Have Kitchen Tools for Cozy Fall Cooking
Fall is my absolute favorite season for cooking. The air is crisp, the leaves are turning, and there is nothing more comforting than the smell of something simmering on the stove. I love pulling out my favorite kitchen tools to make hearty soups, freshly baked breads, and cozy drinks that make the house feel warm from top to bottom. Over the years, I’ve learned that having a few reliable, high-quality tools makes all the difference. Today, I’m sharing my top fifteen must-have kitchen tools for fall cooking. These are the ones I reach for every time I step into the kitchen, and I know they will make your fall cooking season even more enjoyable.
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1. Instant Pot
My Instant Pot has been a game-changer for busy fall days (after I got over the initial anxiety 😅) I can throw in ingredients for a rich, savory soup in the morning and come home to a house that smells like I’ve been cooking all day. It’s perfect for making fall stews, apple butter, and even quick homemade yogurt. I can even make full pot roasts in less than an hour! I love that it saves time without sacrificing flavor.
2. Cast Iron Skillet
A cast iron skillet is a staple in my kitchen. I use it for everything from searing meats to roasting vegetables to baking cornbread. The heat retention is unmatched, and it adds a lovely crispness to every dish. There’s something about cooking in cast iron that makes even simple meals feel special.
3. Dutch Oven
I remember the first time I made a big pot of soup in my Dutch oven. It filled the entire house with the smell of fall and felt like pure magic. Dutch ovens are perfect for slow-cooked meals, savory soups, and even baking bread. They distribute heat evenly and can go from stovetop to oven with ease.
If you are going to use it to be baking From Scratch Sourdough Bread, you will need one that can sustain high heat. I have used one’s before that did not hold up and the enamel began to crack and the smell was off putting. If you need a recommendation, you might look at this one.
4. High-Quality Chef’s Knife
A good knife is essential for fall cooking. From chopping onions for soup to slicing apples for pie, a sharp, reliable chef’s knife makes prep work so much smoother. I have a favorite one that feels just right in my hand and makes me enjoy the process instead of dreading it.
This one is highly rated and not as expensive as some of them out there.
5. Wooden Spoons
There is nothing cozier than stirring a pot of soup with a wooden spoon while watching the leaves fall outside. I keep several wooden spoons in my kitchen because they are gentle on my pots and feel so homey to use. They are my go-to for everything from risottos to sauces.
Remember: Do not put them in the dishwasher and you will want to oil them once per month to keep them well sealed against bacteria. Here is a good oil to use to keep all your wooden utensils looking their best.
6. Autumn-Themed Bakeware
Fall baking is just better when you have bakeware that feels seasonal. I love pumpkin shaped cookie cutters and leaf-embossed cake pans. They make baking even more fun and are perfect for gifting homemade treats to neighbors. You can grab a few extra during the fall season so you have them ready for all your favorite recipes.
7. Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measurements are key to baking, and having sturdy measuring cups and spoons makes everything easier. I prefer ones that are durable and easy to clean. They are small tools that make a big difference, especially when making fall breads and desserts. I have a copper set that my sister bought for me that I absolutely love!! These are similar and you can find them on Amazon.
By the way, if you are stocking up your pantry this Fall (you might need my Fall Pantry Checklist), make sure you include a container of my Brownie Mix in Bulk.. it is a lifesaver on busy nights when you need to whip up a dessert quickly and you can skip all of the unhealthy additives!
8. Mixing Bowls
I always keep a set of mixing bowls in different sizes. They are perfect for mixing batters, tossing salads, or even holding prepped ingredients while cooking. I really love milk glass and I have a beautiful set of milk glass nesting bowls that I use every day. I like to display them on a shelf in the kitchen because they add a cozy charm to the space and it instantly puts me in the mood to bake my favorite fall treats! Now, these are not the exact same but are close if you are looking for that same charm in your kitchen!
9. Baking Mats or Parchment Paper
Nothing is worse than spending time baking cookies or pastries only to have them stick. I rely on silicone baking mats or parchment paper to make cleanup easy and keep my baked goods perfect. Plus, it makes baking with little helpers so much less stressful.
10. Slow Cooker or Soup Crock
Even though my Instant Pot handles a lot, I still love a traditional slow cooker for those long, cozy days when I want dinner to cook itself. It’s wonderful for stews, chili, or a big batch of applesauce simmering away while I paint or work on a new blog post. It’s the ultimate comfort for fall cooking.
11. NutriMill Grain Mill
If you enjoy fresh, whole-grain breads or pancakes in the fall, a grain mill is a game-changer. Grinding your own flour gives baked goods incredible flavor, and it’s so satisfying to know exactly what’s going into your food. I love starting my mornings with freshly milled flour for pancakes or muffins. If you have been thinking of milling your own grains at home, now is a perfect time. Nutrimill is giving Our Manor On Main readers $20 off their order. Simply use the code OURMANOR at checkout or click here.
12. Rolling Pin
A good rolling pin makes all the difference for pie crusts, sourdough cinnamon rolls, cookies, and homemade pasta. I even use it to help crush pistachios in The Only Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe You’ll Ever Need . I love the particular one I have because it feels perfect in my hands and makes rolling out dough a joy instead of a chore. I found this beautiful marble rolling pin one day at a flea market when I was exploring with my mom. She had one just like it too and when I use it, it makes me feel closer to her. I found one just like it and you can find it here.
13. Wooden Cutting Board
A sturdy wooden cutting board is not just practical but it’s beautiful to display on your countertop too. I use mine daily for chopping vegetables, slicing bread, and even serving cheeses when guests come over. I absolutely LOVE Boos Blocks. Mom and I found my little butcher block island at an antique store one time. I fell in love with it for its chippy legs but also the fact that it said “Boo” on it. That was my nickname all through school and so it is like I have a little something in my kitchen with a shoutout to my childhood. I use this every single day and love it so much. You don’t have to have a butcher block with legs like mine though, Boos Blocks make gorgeous cutting blocks that will fit perfectly in with your kitchen too. They also make a great holiday gift idea. Include this with some fresh bread and infused olive oil and I promise you it will be well loved!
14. Pie Pans
Fall is pie season, and having a reliable pie pan is essential. I have a few in different sizes so I can make pumpkin, apple, or even pecan pies for cozy gatherings. I love seeing the crust golden and perfect every time. If you are new to baking, especially with pies, here are a few that I think you will love!
15. Cooling Rack and Trivets
Baked goods need to cool properly, and a good cooling rack makes it easy. These are my go to in my kitchen. I always have one on hand for cookies, loaves, and even roasted vegetables to help maintain texture and prevent sogginess. At the same time, hot pots and pans are part of fall cooking, and trivets keep your counters safe. I love using rustic wooden design and antiques because they are both practical and add a cozy touch to the kitchen.
On another note, don’t these Brown Butter Pumpkin Chocolate Chip cookies look divine?!
Bringing It All Together
These ten tools have become staples in my kitchen because they make fall cooking more enjoyable and effortless. Every time I pull out my cast iron skillet or Dutch oven, I feel like I’m creating a little bit of magic in my home. If you want to make the most of this cozy season, investing in a few reliable kitchen tools will transform your cooking experience.
Whether you are whipping up a hearty soup, baking a fragrant loaf of bread, or just making a warm drink for yourself, these tools will help you embrace fall in the most delicious way.
XO,
Bri
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Shop My Cozy Kitchen Favorites on Amazon
If you are stocking up for the season, you can shop my hand-picked cozy kitchen favorites on Amazon to make fall cooking feel simple and inviting!
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