Buzz
Photo: Yulia Reznikov/Getty ImagesThough the cold weather outside may be harsh, the aroma of freshly baked cookies or a comforting cake brings warmth to the season. With the holidays approaching, it's time to bake once again. But before you turn on the oven, take a moment to prepare your kitchen. Here are six baking items you should consider decluttering before the holidays, ensuring more treats and less hassle.
Outdated Spices, Mixes, and Garnishes
Professional organizer Ashley Stewart of OCD advises, “Before the holiday frenzy kicks in, staying organized is key. We recommend reviewing your spice collection for expired items. As you go through them, make a list of what’s being tossed and what you’ll need to restock.” The same rule applies to old cake mixes, frosting, and sprinkles.
Broken Cookie Cutters
Cookie cutters can wear out over time, and using a broken one could result in uneven cookies or even an accidental injury. Discard any cutters that are past their prime.
Stewart also suggests keeping your holiday cookie cutters separate from the rest of your baking tools unless you're fond of making festive cookies all year round. “Clear shoeboxes are great for organizing cookie cutters. Store them in the pantry up high where they won’t take up valuable space, and they’ll be easy to access when needed,” says Stewart.
Worn-Out Non-Stick Bakeware
Non-stick bakeware can truly make baking easier, but sadly, it doesn't last forever. Over time, especially if metal utensils have been used to scrape off those snickerdoodles, cookie sheets endure significant wear and tear. If your bakeware is scratched, chipped, or otherwise damaged, it's time to let it go. Damaged non-stick surfaces not only affect the outcome of your baked goods but can also release harmful chemicals into your treats.
Cracked Ceramic Dishes
Ceramic baking dishes and cake pans are fantastic, but they’re susceptible to cracking, whether from exposure to excessive heat or simply an unfortunate drop. If you spot any cracks, it’s time to replace them. A broken dish in the oven means more than just ruined food—it also creates a challenging cleanup mess.
Old or Damaged Food Containers
There’s something special about giving or receiving holiday treats in a festive food container. But if that container is cracked, stained, or has a lid that no longer fits properly, it won’t keep your food fresh. Like fruit cake, these containers have their own expiration date.
Items You Never Actually Use
From Christmas Tree cookies to homemade Hanukkah gelt, we all have our favorite baking traditions. So why hang on to things you don’t use for recipes you rarely make? Whether it's a bundt cake pan that hasn't seen the light of day in six years or a wooden spatula that got accidentally charred, there's no reason to keep items you'll never use again.
