From our convenient and easy-to-use air fryer ovens and our blenders to our toaster ovens and coffee makers, these essential small kitchen appliances will help you create culinary masterpieces with ease. Versatile, durable, and built to last, these small kitchen appliances and cooking appliances have all the makings to become staples in your daily meal preparation. 

Determining which small kitchen appliances you need will ultimately come down to your unique cooking needs, available storage space, and, of course, budget. Here are eight of our favourite small kitchen appliances, along with three tips on finding the perfect appliances for your meal prep habits. 

Must-Have Small Kitchen Appliances

Equipping your kitchen with these must-have kitchen appliances can transform your cooking experience. From quick meals to gourmet creations, these essential small appliances can elevate your culinary game. Get ready to transform your kitchen into a haven of efficiency and creativity, where delicious meals come to life with the touch of a button.

Air Fryer Ovens

Air fryers have transformed home cooking, offering a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods. These must-have small kitchen appliances use hot air circulation to create crispy, delicious food with little to no oil, making them perfect for health-conscious cooks. Stokes offers a range of top-quality air fryer ovens, like the thinkkitchen Crispy Fry Digital Air Fryer, or our thinkkitchen Vision Digital Air Fryer.

From crispy French fries to perfectly cooked chicken wings, air fryer ovens excel at creating guilt-free versions of your favorite fried foods. They’re also ideal for quick weeknight meals, allowing you to whip up nutritious dishes in minutes. 

Whether you’re reheating leftovers or experimenting with new recipes, an air fryer oven is a must-have small appliance that combines convenience and culinary innovation. If you’re unsure where to start, be sure to consult our Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Air Fryer! 

Blenders

A high-quality blender is an essential tool for every home cook, and Stokes offers a number of versatile and affordable options to expand your culinary arsenal. Whether you’re whipping up silky smoothies, creamy soups, or flavorful sauces, a powerful blender can make all the difference. Indeed, Stokes’ durable, multi-functional blenders can handle a variety of tasks with ease.

Start your day right with a nutritious morning smoothie, effortlessly puree vegetables for comforting soups, or create homemade sauces that will impress dinner guests. With multiple speed settings and sturdy blades, these must-have small kitchen appliances can tackle everything from crushing ice to emulsifying dressings. 

Our thinkitchen Pro-Fit Blender makes for a great addition to any small kitchen, opening up the cooking possibilities. Alternatively, the thinkkitchen Fiona Blender is an equally versatile blender, emerging as a Stokes essential. 

Slow Cookers

Slow cookers are a must-have small kitchen appliance for busy home cooks, offering unparalleled convenience and versatility. At Stokes, we understand the value of multi-functional small kitchen appliances, which is why our selection of slow cookers goes beyond traditional models. 

Take, for instance, our versatile Thinkkitchen 14-Function Quickpot that combines slow cooking with pressure cooking, sautéing, and even rice cooking capabilities. These all-in-one small kitchen appliances are perfect for creating delicious one-pot meals with minimal effort. 

Whether you’re simmering a hearty stew, tenderizing tough cuts of meat, or preparing a batch of perfectly cooked rice, a quality slow cooker accommodates recipes of all sizes. 

Toaster Ovens

Toaster ovens are the unsung heroes of modern kitchens, offering versatility that far surpasses their compact size. These countertop marvels are a must-have small kitchen appliance for home cooks looking to maximize space without sacrificing functionality.

Stokes offers a range of toaster ovens that do it all – from perfectly crisping your morning toast to baking small batches of cookies and even roasting a chicken for dinner. Their multifunctional design makes them ideal for reheating leftovers without the sogginess of a microwave, ensuring your food retains its original texture and flavour. 

Some of our best toaster ovens is the thinkkitchen Diversi-Fry Toaster that offers home cooks’ flexibility where it matters most–in the kitchen.

Stand Mixers

Stand mixers are indispensable small kitchen appliances for home cooks and baking enthusiasts alike. These must-have small kitchen appliances effortlessly handle a wide range of kitchen tasks, from mixing dough and whipping cream to create perfectly smooth batters. Stokes offers a selection of high-quality stand mixers that combine power, durability, and style, from our thinkkitchen Promix Plus Stand Mixer to our thinkkitchen Odyssey Stand Mixer. 

Whether you’re kneading bread dough, whipping up meringues, or preparing cake batter, a reliable stand mixer will become your trusted kitchen companion. With various attachments and speed settings, these appliances adapt to your culinary needs, saving time and effort in the kitchen.

Coffee Makers

For many home cooks, a morning cup of coffee is an essential ritual. A quality coffee maker from Stokes can elevate this daily experience, transforming your kitchen into a personal cafe. Whether you prefer a simple drip brew or crave barista-style creations, Stokes offers a range of top-rated coffee makers to suit every taste. 

Our Ambrosia Espresso Maker, for instance, stands out with its ability to customize brew strength and temperature. This versatile small kitchen appliance excels at brewing rich, flavorful coffee and can even craft perfect pour-overs. Our Java & Co. Double Walled Glass French Press and Applewood Espresso Maker are equally suited for elevating your morning routine, without taking up any storage space. 

Electric Kettles

Electric kettles offer home cooks unparalleled convenience and speed when boiling water. Stokes’ stylish electric kettles are must-have small kitchen appliances for any kitchen, boasting rapid heating technology that brings water to a boil in minutes.

Perfect for brewing your morning tea, preparing pour-over coffee, or whipping up instant noodles for a quick meal, this essential small kitchen appliance streamlines your kitchen routine. Featuring a sleek design and user-friendly features, Stokes’ electric kettles not only perform efficiently but also add a touch of modern elegance to your countertop. Say goodbye to waiting around the stove—this must-have small kitchen appliance ensures you’re never more than moments away from your next hot beverage or meal prep.

Food Processors

Food processors dramatically reduce prep time and effort in the kitchen, simplifying traditional meal preparation as you know it. These must-have small kitchen appliances excel at chopping, slicing, and dicing, turning tedious tasks into quick work. Whether you’re prepping vegetables for a stir-fry, kneading dough for homemade pizza, or grating cheese for your favorite pasta dish, a food processor handles it all with ease.

For those with limited counter space, Stokes offers compact yet powerful options that don’t compromise on performance. The Dana Compact Food Processor & Blender is a standout choice, combining efficiency with a sleek design. Its large capacity and multiple attachments make it perfect for both everyday meals and entertaining. Invest in a quality food processor from Stokes, and you’ll wonder how you ever managed without one.

How to Choose the Right Appliances for Your Kitchen

Selecting the perfect small kitchen appliances can be overwhelming, but with the right approach, you’ll equip your kitchen for culinary success. Indeed, there are three crucial factors to consider when choosing small kitchen appliances‌: assessing your cooking needs, evaluating your available space, and determining your budget. 

Assess Your Cooking Needs

When selecting small kitchen appliances, it’s crucial to assess your cooking needs. Consider the types of meals you prepare most often. Are you a smoothie enthusiast who needs a powerful blender? Or perhaps you’re an avid baker requiring a stand mixer? By evaluating your culinary habits, you can prioritize small kitchen appliances that align with your cooking style. 

Stokes offers a wide range of must-have small kitchen appliances to suit various needs, from efficient food processors for quick meal prep to versatile air fryer ovens and slow-cookers for one-pot wonders. Remember, the goal is to invest in small kitchen appliances that will simplify your cooking process and be used frequently. This thoughtful approach ensures you’re not cluttering your kitchen with gadgets that’ll gather dust, but equipping it with tools that enhance your cooking experience.

Space Considerations

Space is a precious commodity in any kitchen, especially when selecting small appliances. Before purchasing, measure your available counter and storage areas. Compact, multi-functional small kitchen appliances can save valuable space while offering versatility. For tight quarters, consider appliances with vertical designs or those that can be easily stored away. Wall-mounted options or under-cabinet models can free up counter space.

Remember, an overcrowded kitchen hinders efficiency. Prioritize small kitchen appliances you’ll use frequently and opt for stackable or nesting designs when possible. Stokes offers a range of space-saving must-have small kitchen appliances that don’t compromise on performance, ensuring your kitchen remains functional and clutter-free.

Budget

Balancing quality and cost is crucial when selecting small kitchen appliances. Stokes offers a range of budget-friendly options that don’t sacrifice performance. By prioritizing essential features over unnecessary bells and whistles, you can find reliable small kitchen appliances that fit your budget.

Stokes’ affordable, must-have small kitchen appliances proves that high-quality kitchen tools don’t have to break the bank. Consider long-term value—investing in durable must-have small kitchen appliances can save money over time by reducing the need for frequent replacements. Remember, a well-chosen, modestly-priced Stokes appliance can often outperform and outlast more expensive alternatives, making it a smart investment for your kitchen.

Equip your Kitchen with Stokes’ Versatile Small Kitchen Appliances

Equipping your kitchen with the right small appliances can transform your cooking experience. From our air fryer ovens that deliver crispy results with less oil, to time-saving appliances like pressure cookers and powerful blenders, these must-have small kitchen appliances are true game-changers for home cooks of all levels.

These must-have appliances not only streamline meal preparation but also open up a world of culinary possibilities. They allow you to experiment with new recipes, perfect your favorite dishes, and tackle cooking techniques that might have seemed daunting before.

Ready to elevate your kitchen game with our trusted house brands? Explore Stokes’ extensive collection of high-quality, affordable small kitchen appliances. With options to suit every budget and cooking style, Stokes has everything you need to transform your kitchen into a haven of culinary creativity. Visit our online store today and take advantage of our Buy Online, Free In-Store Pickup Option for newfound convenience!

Long Island Iced Coffee

You’re probably familiar with Long Island iced tea, but what about Long Island iced coffee? This boozy concoction is perfect to serve to guests along with dessert at your next summer dinner party, or could even be the ideal choice for your next brunch with friends.

Wanna try? Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients for one cocktail:

• ½ oz Baileys
• ½ oz Kahlua
• ½ oz vodka
• ½ oz rum
• ½ oz tequila
• 2 oz cold brew or iced coffee (caffeinated or decaf)
• 2 cups of ice

Preparation:

• Fill a glass with 1 cup of ice.
• In a cocktail shaker, combine all of the ingredients with 1 cup of ice. Shake vigorously.
• Strain into the glass and enjoy.

This may just be the perfect summer cocktail!

Coffee Buzz Cocktail

Part delicious boozy drink and part dessert, this cocktail is a must-try for all coffee lovers. A fun twist on a martini with a white chocolate rim (yes, really!), this is the grown-up milkshake you didn’t know you needed in your life.

Wanna try? Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients for one cocktail:

• 1oz vodka
• 3/4oz Baileys
• 3/4oz Kahlua 
• 1/2oz simple syrup
• 1/2oz half and half
• 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee, at room temperature
• 1/4oz finely grated white chocolate (for garnish – optional)
• 3 coffee beans (for garnish – optional)

Preparation:

• If decorating the rim with white chocolate, finely grate the white chocolate in a small plate. Fill another small plate with water and dip the rim of a coupe glass in the water. Keep the rim down and transfer it into the chocolate, dipping and turning until the chocolate adheres to the rim. 
• To make the cocktail, combine all of the ingredients in a shaker filled with ice.  Shake well until very cold, then pour into the prepared glass. Garnish with coffee beans and serve immediately.

These are so good, we bet you’ll find it hard to have just one!

Espresso Martini

When a cocktail tastes good, wakes you up, AND gets you in a party mood, you know you’re in for a fun night! To start the evening on the right foot, or served right after dinner, this decadent martini is easy to make and yet feels so chic. Oh, and we like ours like James Bond—shaken, not stirred.

Wanna try? Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients for one cocktail:

• 3oz vodka
• 2/3oz Kahlua
• 2/3oz espresso, cooled
• 3 coffee beans for garnish (optional)

Preparation:

• In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, place the vodka, the Kahlua, and the espresso.
• Shake vigorously about 10 times before straining in a martini glass. Scrape out the foam inside as needed. Without a bit of foam, the coffee beans won’t float.
• Garnish with a few coffee beans before serving immediately.

Easy to whip up and yet so fancy!

 If you make this recipe and want to share it with us, tag us on Instagram @stokesstores and use the hashtag #StokesMoments.

It’s something in the chilly morning breeze or the frosty evening air. Light jackets and a cozy scarf are required and we leave our homes to venture out in a world of yellow, orange, and red hues all around. Fall is well underway, and while most people believe that the beginning of the season is marked by the autumn equinox (which scientifically may be) by modern North American cultural standards, we cue this season’s arrival by something different: the return of the Pumpkin Spice Latté. Nothing short of a cultural phenomenon, this MVP of lattés brings together the best seasonal tastes, flavours and symbols (pumpkin!), and is a deliciously warm drink we all love to sip on now and then as the shivery weather sets in.

However enjoyable our cherished Pumpkin Spice Latté may be, it does not come without its vices. Though this frothy beverage goes down easily, it unfortunately doesn’t have such an easy effect on our wallets, as “designer” lattés often come at a price. Ever wonder about the mysterious blend of ingredients that creates such an alluringly sugar experience? Or the calorie count behind such a sinfully sweet drink? Fact is, we’ve all fallen under the spicy-sweet spell of the coffee shop PSL, but would love to know the secrets behind what makes it so great so we can make it right at home!

If you love a good PSL just as much as we do, we have some good news for you! This week, we have the perfect way you can continue to sip on your fall favourite right at home–and it involves REAL pumpkin! Thanks to Anne, the recipe developer and food stylist behind the blog La fille du 3ème, there’s a healthier and more affordable way to enjoy this season’s coffee all-star. Anne shows us how to create a Pumpkin Spice Latté with even better components than the ones from the coffee shops: A mystery-ingredient-free homemade pumpkin-spice syrup loaded with cinnamon, brown sugar, and pumpkin paste, as well as an easy-to-do fluffy froth to top it off! To create this exquisite coffee concoction, Anne uses the new thinkkitchen Silverdot Programmable Coffee Maker, (which makes it possible for you to wake up to fresh coffee at the push of a button) to brew her base and the thinkkitchen Cito Milk Frother, which heats and froths your milk, for the finishing touch. With both of these modern additions to your coffee time line-up, you’ll be whipping up your favourite aromatic beverages better than your local barista!

So get your favourite mug out—it’s time to go from enthusiast to expert and make the Pumpkin Spice Latté of your dreams.

Here to help you get your fall fix guilt-free,

I consider myself a passionate person. I have a passion for life, for everything it brings and the experiences it provides. I grew up surrounded by people who have a passion for cooking. Inevitably, this has influenced how I decided to live my life. I obtained a technical diploma in dietetics at Cegep de Saint-Hyacinthe. Afterwards, I started working as a technician at the Montreal General Hospital in Food Service Management. I learnt that there is a strong relationship between health and nutrition and enjoyed the chance to apply the knowledge I gained in my education to the real world. Although I loved nutrition, hospital environment was not for me. I decided to make a career change and I worked as a supervisor at Starbucks. I enjoyed being in a leadership position and wanted to study in a field that would help develop my leadership skills. I completed studies in Industrial Relations at Université de Montréal, which opened my eyes to the world of entrepreneurship—something I found incredibly interesting and appealing.

My interest in entrepreneurship gave birth to new dreams and ambitions: my blogger identity and brand (La fille du 3ème), my culinary blog, and the goal of one day opening my own café-boutique.  I work hard every day to accomplish my dreams and I am very proud of what I have achieved so far. The path to where you want to be can be challenging, but if you listen to your heart, you will achieve your goal.

Follow Anne on Facebook, Instagram and on her blog.

But don’t let us stop you at lattés! If making a cappuccino is your thing, our milk frothers can make foam for any warm drink you desire. Let Allison show you how to froth milk perfectly, or if you’re looking to go dairy-free, she can show you an option for that too. All you need is a milk frothing machine, and Stokes has you covered for that. Before getting started, check out all the choices we have, from top of the line electric milk frothers to easy-to-use manual milk frothers – with one of our frothers, you’ll be sipping a luscious warm foamy drink in no time.

Recipes

Flavour Syrup

A tip from Allison: Sure, you can go out and find flavouring syrups and spend tons of money for a bottle of sugar and artificial flavouring… OR you can make your very own at home in under 15 minutes. Yes, you! The best part is that there’s nothing artificial about it – just a couple of simple natural ingredients that you probably have lying around in your pantry, just waiting to become the star in tomorrow morning’s cup of joe.

Cinnamon Syrup

• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 tbsp cinnamon
• 1 vanilla bean (or 1 tsp of vanilla extract)

Lavender Syrup 

• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 tbsp lavender flowers

Method
Bring all ingredients to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 8 to 10 minutes, or until sugar is completely dissolved. Strain & transfer unused portions to a clean jar and refrigerate for up to 6 weeks.

Lattés

How Allison got her foam just right: Let’s talk a bit about the foam. A latté just isn’t a latté without a fluffy pillow of foam piled high on top. Well, thanks to my latest collaboration with Stokes, I have discovered the holy grail of pillowy foam makers: the Cito Electric Milk Frother. This compact countertop machine heats and froths milk in seconds! Seconds! I’ve owned it all of 4 days, and I’m already addicted. 

Cinnamon Bun Latté

Make this tasty treat even more indulgent by topping it with whipped cream (or whipped coconut cream if you’re keeping it vegan) & drizzle with extra cinnamon syrup.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup hot brewed coffee (or 1/3 cup espresso)
• 3/4 cup milk, or Soy Creamer (not soy milk – see note!)
• 2 tsp cinnamon syrup (or more, to taste!)
• cinnamon, for garnish

Method
Pour coffee into a large mug and stir in syrup. Pour milk into frother (it should reach the lowest fill line) and turn on the heat setting. Allow to heat, and froth. Pour hot milk & froth over coffee. Use a small spoon to remove extra froth. Garnish with additional cinnamon or a cinnamon stick. Serve hot in our art deco mug and place it on our era charger for whimsical charm!

Vanilla Rooibos Latté with Lavender

The perfect evening drink with soothing lavender and naturally caffeine-free rooibos tea.

Ingredients

• 1 cup soy milk or homogenized milk
• 1/2 cup soy creamer or 2% milk
• 2 rooibos tea bags
• seeds from 1 vanilla bean
• 1 tsp lavender syrup
• lavender petals, for garnish

Method
Bring soy milk to a simmer with tea bags, syrup, and vanilla bean inside. Cover and allow to simmer for 5 minutes. Meanwhile, froth soy creamer or homogenized milk. Transfer to our art deco mug & top with creamer and extra lavender flowers for garnish.  Place it provencal tray for easy transport and enjoy!

A little note from Allison about soy froth: Soy milk will not froth up like regular milk – UNLESS you’re using a special formula made for frothers. Luckily, this stuff exists in Canada – you just have to know what to look for. Soy Nice has three options: Barista Blend, Soy Nice for Coffee Original and Soy Nice for Coffee Vanilla. If you want froth, these are your best buds. After a LOT of experimenting, these were the only non-dairy products that I found that behaved like regular milk does.

Here to help you achieve your at home barista goals,

Allison Sklar is a Montreal native who started her blog in 2009. Allison is an advocate of plant-based diets, and she eats mostly vegan diet at home, but she does not like to label herself. For instance, from time to time, you may catch her enjoying some sustainably sourced fish, as she did last summer in New Orleans. You may also see her occasionally drizzling some fair trade honey into her green tea. Call her a flexatarian, a pescetarian, a confused omnivore, whatever – she eats what she enjoys, and she encourages you to do the same. Allison creates the majority of her own recipes, unless otherwise stated. She is inspired by friends, family, and of course, whatever’s in her fridge. For more of Allison’s recipes visit her blog!

Click here for a text only version of the recipes!

October has come and gone and we all know what that means – the season of giving is here! Finding the perfect gift for everyone on your list can be a daunting task. This year Stokes wants to help you get a head start on your gift giving – and there just might be something in it for you too!

Check out our gift giving guide below for every person on your list !

For the Tablescape Artist

Getting the details right for every occasion, while creating a welcoming and festive table, is what this gift beneficiary is all about. The Christmas Juniper Dinnerware Set helps add joyful cheer to any table and will help your Tablescape Artist set the perfect table.

For the Holiday Host 

A Holiday Host wants to make sure their spread has something for everyone. What better way to give them a gift by buying them something to help them make sure of that. The Heart Revolving Condiment set gives a party planner the ability to set out all their guests’ favorites!

For the ones who love making festive foods and seasonal sweets

For the cooks and bakers in your life, their happiness comes from other people’s enjoyment. Lend them a hand this holiday season by making sure their spice collection is on point with the Mason 16-Jar Spice Rack.

For the one who always brings the Holiday Spirits

Do you know someone who never lets a party guest go without a drink in their hand? For this lucky person on your list, it’s all about helping people enjoy the moment in a relaxed atmosphere. The 3 bottle dispensing system on our Bar Butler will them make sure everyone’s joining in on the merrymaking.

For the one who loves to brew the perfect cup

This person on your list believes a hot drink can cure all.  Whether it’s to get their day started, hearing out a friend, or with a good book in hand, something brewed should always be within reach. The Mousse Milk Frother will take their brewed experience to the next level.

For the specialty chef

The specialty chef is someone who likes to experiment. Finding the right appliance to help them make exactly what they want, how they want,  is what makes them tick. The Triple Swiss Raclette will let this person on your list grill anything to perfection.

For the one who devoted to decking the halls 

This gift recipient is easy to please, all they need is something that can add some holiday cheer to their home! Avoid clashing with decorations they already have by going with a classic and elegant look like our Rudolf’s Sleigh.

For the one who loves to snuggle up

We all know one person who would stay inside all winter if they could! This homebody knows that cold days are for cozying up with something to read or for starting a Netflix marathon. Make sure they stay warm all winter long with this Red Checkered Throw.

For the playful one

This one is for the person on your list who loves a good game and some healthy competition. Getting the whole group involved, while making the energy in the room go up a notch is what this person loves. The Drinking Roulette Game would make a perfect gift!

Here to help you get every aspect of your holiday season just right,