Organizing Your Baking Supplies

This past weekend, I participated in a fundraiser to make and sell 1,500 apple pies at the local Arts and Apples Festival.  Since baking is on my mind, I thought I would give you some tips to help you organize your baking supplies. If you have ever burned something while you are looking for an ingredient or bought something from the store and later realized you had it but couldn’t find it, then follow these tips:

• Identify the Space – You want to store your baking supplies together in one area.  The first step is to determine which cupboard, shelf, etc. you will dedicate to your baking supplies.  When choosing a space, consider how often you bake.  If you are a frequent baker, then pick a space that is easy to get to.  If you are an occasional baker, then you can get away with a less convenient spot, such as a lower cabinet.

• Gather – If you already have your baking products stored together and you are re-organizing, then empty all items.  If your baking products are currently spread throughout your kitchen, then now is the time to gather all of them so you can see what you have.

• Sort – Determine if there are any smaller sub-groups of baking supplies that you want to keep together.  For example, I like to keep all of my decorating things together (sprinkles, candies, frosting, frosting tips, etc.).  Sort your items by categories that make sense to you.

• Clean – Now that these things are out, take a few minutes to clean your cupboard or shelves before loading it back up.

• Put It All Back Together– Shop for any organization products that will help you be able to see and find what you need quickly.  Here are some of my favorites:

• Food Storage Containers – These airtight containers are a must for things like your flours and sugars.  They come in all different sizes, so you need to consider your space when choosing them.  If you have a small shelf, but it is very high, then pick a taller, thinner option.  Rectangular shapes will make the best use of your space.

• Tiered Shelf – The Expand-a-Shelf is a great example of the 3-tiered shelf.  This is great for storing lots of little things such as food coloring, extracts, baking powder, etc.

• Lazy Susan – This rotating turntable is a great option for some of the decorating items, such as sprinkles.

• Clear Plastic Bins – Depending on your space, these can be a great solution.  I like the shoebox size to stack.  You can use these for cupcake liners, cookie cutters, cake decorating accessories, etc.

When supplies are difficult to find, it slows you down in the kitchen.  Use these tips to help you organize your baking supplies.  This is the perfect time to complete this project…just in time for the holidays!

Donna Lindley, Certified Professional Organizer and owner of Rochester Hills, MI-based Organize Your World, Inc.