The 15 Best Holiday Gifts for Home Cooks, According to Our Editors

Ready or not, it’s that time of year again—the time for gathering, gift giving, and, of course, shopping. For many of us (myself included), the hardest thing about getting great gifts for loved ones is finding that sweet spot between what they want and what they need. What will bring a smile to their face, from the moment it’s unwrapped to many years after?

Over the years, my friends and family have come to me specifically for kitchen gift recommendations. They trust that I, as a professional recipe developer and active cook, not only have ideas for what home cooks might need, but specific brand recommendations, too. This year, I'm leaning in and approaching gift-giving with the kitchen in mind.

I tapped into the Simply Recipes network of professional food people, sourcing reliable gifts that will be at home in any cook’s kitchen. From cutting boards to knives, food storage to fun (and helpful) tools, here’s what the editors of Simply Recipes have on their wishlists this year.

Knives

Not everyone knows the importance and difference a great knife can make in the kitchen, but after you gift them one this holiday season, they will.

Opinel Stainless Steel Paring Knives Set: “I have a new set of paring knives on my list this year because one paring knife is just never enough.” —Haley Scarpino, Associate Editor

Global 8” Classic Japanese Chef’s Knife: “My partner keeps taking ‘the good knife’ when we're cooking together, so I want to put a second one under the tree this year. The only thing I’m unsure about is whether to gift the new one to myself, or to her.” —Lara Eucalano, Senior Editor

Cutting Boards

Though basic, cutting boards make great gifts for the avid cooks in your life. A cutting board is something that gets pulled out and put to use just about every day, so gifting a fresh one is something any cook will surely appreciate. It would also be a great gift for someone who loves to host, as they can also be beautiful serving boards, slicing and dicing entirely optional.

Zwilling Plant Fiber Cutting Boards: “I got a sample of these, and they are so good! I’m going to get this set for my in-laws.” —Laurel Randolph, Associate Editorial Director

Boardsmith Walnut End Grain Cutting Board: "I finally got rid of my large bamboo cutting board I got from Aldi years ago and have been eyeing Boardsmith for an upgrade (especially since I host a lot). I’m in love with the looks of this one.” —Munni Pramanik, Editorial Projects Manager

Food Storage and Transport

For the extremely organized and practical, or the complete opposite, you can’t go wrong with a storage-related gift. I especially love the tin containers, as they flex in the kitchen or elsewhere.

Pyrex Storage and Bakeware Lids: “I legit need Pyrex lids—only the lids. And I'm not the only one, because half the options are sold out. The Pyrex glass storage containers are indestructible, but my lids have weathered too many storms and need a replacement.” —Lara

HAY Tin Container: “I love these for gifting! I personally own an older version in a different colorway and use them to store tea bags.” — Sarah Crowder, Senior Art Director

Áplat Plat Dish Tote: “I recently saw someone at a party bring their pie in this tote, and I’m obsessed. They have a lot of colors and are super heavy duty for carrying pies or side dishes really easily, and while they might not be something for everyday use, I think they make a more than worthy and fun gift.” —Devan Grimsrud, Contributor

Cookware

If you’re looking to go big this year, centerpiece cookware will certainly do the trick. They’re heavy-duty and will last a lifetime, and if you’re lucky enough to size up someone’s cooking arsenal, who knows—maybe a hand-me-down will come your way.

Staub x Smitten Kitchen 4-Quart Enameled Cast Iron Braiser: “I've had my eye on this since it was released two years ago, but haven't pulled the trigger yet. If that were under my Christmas tree, I'd be so excited! Obsessed with the dark green and teal blue, and I know Deb would never steer me wrong.” —Afton Cyrus, Senior Editor

Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron Double Handled Skillet: “I've been eyeing this! I have this Staub braiser, which I love and use for way more than just braising. But I've always wished it was a little larger.” —Victoria Seaver, Associate General Manager

Made In Carbon Steel Griddle: “This is on my wishlist for making a big batch of pancakes, some griddled flatbreads, or bacon and eggs for a crowd. I also love using a large griddle like this for sandwiches or warming up tortillas for tacos. It would be a generous gift for sure, but it will stand the test of time!” —Devan

Appliances

Anyone who doesn’t already have a stand mixer most likely has one on their list, so you really can’t lose with this gift. It would be a great one for a group to go in on since they’re quite spendy, but I know if this is the only thing I had under the tree, I’d be a happy camper.

Kitchen Aid Stand Mixer: “My wishlist has always had a Kitchen Aid mixer, and it still does. I always borrow my friend's or my neighbor's when I need one.” —Munni

Tools

A fun cooking tool is almost always a welcome addition to any kitchen. Whether you have one yourself, love it, and want to spread the word, or are just looking for something small but practical, these are a few great ideas.

IKEA APTITLIG Lazy Susan: “I recently spotted this lazy susan at Ikea, and I think I'll be buying it for myself. I want something pretty enough to be out on the counter to wrangle my oils and salt and pepper.” —Laurel

Earlywood Medium Flat Sauté Spatula: “I was given a set of these last year and have fallen in love with them. They’re versatile, lightweight, and beautifully made. This medium size is my favorite for just about any sautéing, and I find a pair of them works really well for tossing salads or pasta. They take a bit more effort to maintain than your classic rubber spatula, but they’re worth it.” —Devan

OTOTO Gracula Garlic Crusher and Peeler: “I gave this cute little guy to a few people last year, and it was a very well-received gift.” —Sarah