At the beginning of 2026, I wanted to learn something new that wasn’t computer related. I decided it would be bread. Lots of stumbles and still some good bakes. My skills are improving. Here are some of the brands, tools, and resources I use.
Sections
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Ingredients
Tools
Resources
Ingredients
My favorite brands for baking bread and more.
I’ve learned there’s a difference between bread flour and AP flour so now I have both. I’ve found King Arthur’s the easiest to find and work with so it’s top of my list.
Bread Flour | King Arthur Baking Company
I know this is pasta flour but it’s also key to dusting my homemade English muffins. One bag lasts a very long time but don’t skip it.
Bob's Red Mill Semolina Flour - Buy Online
Did you know? There are two different kinds of rice flour. This is the one to use for Tiger bread and Banh Mi. Small bag lasts a long time.
Bob's Red Mill, Gluten Free Rice Flour, 1.5 lb
I prefer yeast packets as they take up less space. Instant yeast is my go to for most of my yeast breads and Red Star is a brand my family has used for years.
Red Star® Yeast
When I’m making scones or other breakfast breads, sometimes a little pop of turbinado sugar adds the extra texture I’m looking for. I like this brand because I mainly bake savory so an easy to store container is ideal for my kitchen.
Turbinado Sugar
Tools
My go to tool for clean cuts, easy measuring, and transferring dough from the counter to the pan or tray. I never knew such a simple tool would be so handy.
Bench Scraper
If your house or kitchen tends to be chilly in the winter, this is a must for consistent proofs when baking. A bit pricy but more than pays for itself, if you bake regularly.
Folding Proofer & Slow Cooker
I’m not a consultant. These racks last forever, are sturdy and perfect for a small galley kitchen. My go to for cooking breads, English muffins, and of course, cookies.
Pampered Chef Cooling Rack
This is another favorite for small batches of scones or cookies.
Modular Sheet Pans - Shop
I’ve had my Lodge cast iron for decades. The 12” skillet is perfect for English muffins, pita pockets, and other pan breads.
Skillets - Lodge Cast Iron
Resources
My go to site, communities, and cookbooks.
This is one of my favorite resources when I need inspiration or the why behind the what I’m doing.
Baking Great Bread at Home Blog
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I discovered the Crust and Crumb Academy when looking for sourdough classes for my SIL. I ended up joining and while I’m not baking sourdough, almost every recipe has a yeasted version, too. Plus the camaraderie and support from other bakers is why I...
Crust and Crumb Academy on Skool
I used to use boxed scone mix, then I discovered how easy it is to make scones from scratch. Just be sure the butter stays cold.
Master Scones Recipe (Any Flavor!)
I am a fan of English muffins. I’d splurge on Wolfermann’s and then, I learned how to make my own. Such a difference. Just remember, fork split is a must.
English Muffins
If you haven’t tried homemade bagels, it’s worth the extra effort.
Bagel Recipe | New York- Style Bagels Recipe
My go to recipe when I want homemade English muffins. Dough slow processes in the fridge overnight then on to the cast iron and yum, breakfast.
English Muffins
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Just discovered this site and excited for a consistent source of einkorn, teff, and rye.
Grand Teton Ancient Grains: Ancient Grains for Sale
As part of our bake-a-long this week was Challah. The recipe is fairly easy to follow and the bread was delicious at least according to the success stories. I had a few mishaps along the way but definitely not the recipes fault. When you lose count o...
Apple-Honey Challah Recipe
Not only are 11 bake a longs planned a full prep calendar and practice baked are included.