Investing in high-quality, sharp kitchen knives can transform traditional meal preparation into a harmonious culinary experience. Indeed, having the right kitchen knives simplifies essential cutting techniques, ensuring you can experiment with new recipes and cooking techniques with ease. 

Stokes offers a number of premium kitchen knives for all your meal prep needs, from our versatile Chef’s Knives and Paring Knives to our Serrated Knives, Utility Knives, and, of course, our Santoku Knives. Built to last with top-quality materials from trusted house brands, these kitchen knives guarantee a smooth, clean cut every single time. Whether you are mincing garlic, chopping veggies, or slicing meats, these durable kitchen knives have you covered. 

Picking the right kitchen knives, however, ultimately comes down to a number of factors, including blade material, handle comfort, and maintenance. With Stokes’ kitchen knives by your side, home cooks can master basic chopping skills, as well as more advanced knife techniques in no time. 

Types of Kitchen Knives and Their Uses

Having the right kitchen knives is essential when exploring new cooking techniques and recipes. Each type of kitchen knife serves a specific purpose, making food prep more efficient and enjoyable. From our Chef’s Knives and Paring Knives to our Serrated Knives, Utility Knives, and Santoku Knives, discover how each of these essential knives saves you time and elevates your favourite recipes. 

Chef’s Knife

A Chef’s Knife is the most versatile tool in any kitchen. With its broad blade, typically 8 to 10 inches long, this kitchen knife is designed for a wide range of tasks. Whether you’re slicing vegetables, chopping herbs, or cutting through meat, the Chef’s Knife provides the control and precision needed for efficient meal prep.

Its curved blade allows for a smooth rocking motion, making dicing and mincing easier. Indeed, this all-purpose knife is a must-have for both professional chefs and home cooks alike. Stokes offers high-quality chef’s knives crafted for durability and performance in the kitchen, from our thinkkitchen Ryku Chef Knife all the way to our Remy Olivier Forged Ombre Elite Chef Knife.

Paring Knife

A paring knife is a small, versatile tool that is essential for precision tasks in the kitchen. Its short, sharp blade—typically around 3 to 4 inches long—makes it ideal for peeling, trimming, and slicing fruits and vegetables with ease. The paring knife is perfect for tasks that require control, such as deveining shrimp, removing seeds, or cutting intricate garnishes.

This kitchen knife’s compact size allows for precision, making it a must-have for delicate work. Our Victorinox Paring Knife and our Remy Olivier Forged Ombre Elite Paring Knife make for great additions to any kitchen knife collection, ensuring comfort and sharpness for everyday use.

Serrated Knife

A serrated knife is an essential kitchen tool, known for its distinctive saw-like blade. Unlike straight-edge kitchen knives, its sharp, jagged teeth effortlessly slice through tough, textured surfaces without crushing the softer interiors. This makes serrated knives ideal for cutting crusty bread, tomatoes, citrus fruits, and even delicate cakes.

Their design allows for precise cuts with minimal pressure, preserving the integrity of foods prone to squishing. At Stokes, our collection of high-quality serrated knives ensures durability and sharpness, making them a must-have in any kitchen for both professional chefs and home cooks looking for precision and ease.

Utility Knife

A utility knife is a versatile tool that falls between a chef’s knife and a paring knife in size, typically ranging from 4 to 7 inches. These kitchen knives are perfect for everyday kitchen tasks that require more precision than a chef’s knife but more length than a paring knife. 

Ideal for slicing mid-sized fruits and vegetables, such as cucumbers or apples, these kitchen knives are also great for trimming meats and preparing sandwiches. Their straight-edge blade makes them suitable for cutting both soft and hard ingredients, providing the flexibility you need in the kitchen. Stokes offers a number of versatile utility knives, including our must-have thinkkitchen Microstripe 7-Pc Knife Set.

Santoku Knife

The Santoku knife is a versatile Japanese blade designed for precision slicing, dicing, and chopping. With its straight edge and distinctive blade, it excels in cutting vegetables, fruits, and boneless meats. The hollow-ground indentations along the blade help prevent food from sticking, making it ideal for smooth, efficient cuts.

A Santoku knife is slightly shorter and lighter than a traditional chef’s knife, offering excellent control for those who prefer a balanced, nimble tool. Stokes offers high-quality Santoku knives blending style and functionality, from our thinkkitchen Ryku Santoku Knife to our Zebrano Santoku Knife.

Knife Blocks

Knife blocks offer both functionality and elegance to any kitchen. They provide a convenient way to store knives safely while keeping them within easy reach. Stokes has a variety of high-quality options, like the ThinkKitchen Rodi 14-Piece Set.

These blocks not only keep knives organized but also help extend blade longevity by protecting edges from unnecessary wear. Many sets come with a range of knives for different tasks, such as the Rowen 16-Piece Set. Knife blocks are ultimately an essential investment for anyone looking to upgrade their kitchen setup with both style and utility.

Stokes offers a comprehensive selection of knife blocks, making it easy for home cooks to get everything they need in one set. Be sure to check out the ThinkKitchen Fortuna 15-Piece Knife Set for versatility or the Harlow 7-Piece Knife Block Set if you’re looking for essential pieces with a sleek design. 

For a well-rounded collection, the Loretta 12-Piece Knife and Block Set provides both function and style. You might also like the ThinkKitchen Doree 8-Piece Set for minimalists or the Rhea 13-Piece Knife and Board Set, which includes a convenient cutting board—perfect for elevating your kitchen setup.

What to Look for in a Quality Kitchen Knife

When selecting a quality kitchen knife, focus on factors like durable blade material, a comfortable handle, and proper balance. A well-designed kitchen knife should offer effortless cutting with the right weight for your grip. These aspects ensure long-term performance, making food prep more efficient and enjoyable.

Blade Material

The blade material is a key factor in determining a kitchen knife’s performance and durability. High-carbon stainless steel blades offer excellent edge retention, corrosion resistance, and easy maintenance, making them a popular choice for professional chefs and home cooks alike. 

Ceramic blades, while lighter and sharper, are more brittle and may chip if not handled carefully. For those seeking both functionality and aesthetic appeal, Damascus steel knives stand out with their distinctive patterns and exceptional strength. Choosing the right blade material ensures longevity and precision, making it essential for any quality kitchen knife.

Handle Comfort

A well-designed knife handle is key to ensuring comfort during prolonged use. Ergonomic handles are crafted to fit naturally in your hand, reducing strain and fatigue, especially during extended meal prep sessions. This design enhances grip, providing better control and precision while cutting. 

Whether you’re slicing vegetables or carving meat, a comfortable handle on your kitchen knife allows for smoother, safer movements, minimizing the risk of accidents. Look for handles that balance comfort and durability for streamline meal preparation. 

Balance and Weight

A kitchen knife’s balance and weight play crucial roles in its performance and comfort. A well-balanced kitchen knife distributes weight evenly between the handle and blade, reducing hand fatigue during prolonged use. The ideal weight varies based on personal preference and intended use.

Heavier kitchen knives offer more power for tough tasks, while lighter ones provide agility for precise cuts. When testing a kitchen knife, pay attention to how it feels in your hand. A comfortable grip and natural balance will enhance your control and efficiency in the kitchen, making meal preparation a more enjoyable experience.

Durability and Maintenance

Investing in kitchen knives that stand the test of time is essential for any home cook. A quality blade should hold its edge well, requiring less frequent sharpening and ensuring consistent performance. Look for kitchen knives crafted from high-carbon stainless steel, known for its resilience and corrosion resistance.

Proper care, including hand washing and drying immediately after use, extends the life of your kitchen knives. Consider the ease of maintenance—some kitchen knives may require professional sharpening, while others can be honed at home with a sharpening steel. Ultimately, a durable kitchen knife that’s simple to maintain will be your loyal kitchen companion for years to come.

Benefits of Investing in a Kitchen Knife Set

Investing in a quality kitchen knife set elevates your cooking experience. Premium knife sets offer superior sharpness, durability, and precision, making food preparation faster and safer. A well-crafted kitchen knife set can ultimately last a lifetime, saving money in the long run while enhancing your culinary skills. 

Comprehensive Tool Set

A quality kitchen knife set equips you with a comprehensive toolset for every culinary challenge. From precision slicing to robust chopping, each knife serves a specific purpose, ensuring you’re never caught unprepared.

With a chef’s knife for general tasks, a paring knife for intricate work, and specialized blades like bread and boning knives, you’ll have the perfect tool for each job. The versatility a kitchen knife set offers not only enhances your cooking efficiency but also allows you to explore diverse cooking techniques and recipes with confidence.

Cost Effective

Kitchen knife sets offer exceptional value for your culinary investment, maximizing the bang for your buck. While the initial cost may seem higher, a comprehensive kitchen knife set eliminates the need for frequent replacements, saving money in the long run. You’ll receive a range of specialized blades for various tasks, negating the expense of buying individual kitchen knives.

Stokes offers a number of versatile kitchen knife sets, perfect for tackling everyday tasks and meal preparation for years to come that won’t break the bank. This durability translates to fewer replacements over time, making a well-chosen kitchen knife set a cost-effective solution for both amateur cooks and seasoned chefs alike.

Aesthetic Appeal

Aesthetic appeal is a significant advantage of choosing a matching kitchen knife set. Coordinated kitchen knives not only add a touch of elegance to your kitchen but also create a cohesive design that complements your overall decor. 

A beautifully displayed kitchen knife set can serve as both a functional tool and a stylish focal point, elevating the visual appeal of your countertop. Investing in a matching kitchen knife set ultimately ensures your kitchen looks polished and well-organized, enhancing your culinary space’s atmosphere.

Choose the Best Kitchen Knives for your Cooking Needs with Stokes

Selecting the right kitchen knives is crucial for any home cook or professional chef. A well-chosen knife set not only enhances your culinary experience but also improves efficiency and safety in the kitchen. Investing in quality blades ensures longevity, precision, and comfort, making your food preparation tasks more enjoyable and yielding better results.

At Stokes, we pride ourselves on offering top-quality kitchen knives that are built to last. Our carefully curated selection combines premium materials, expert craftsmanship, and ergonomic designs to meet the needs of every cooking enthusiast. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, Stokes kitchen knives deliver exceptional performance, durability, and value.

Ready to start slicing, dicing, and chopping like a pro? Explore Stokes’ collection of essential kitchen knives and kitchen knife sets today and get everything you need to prepare your favourite recipes. For more inspiration, be sure to visit our blog and learn how you can make the most of Stokes’ high-quality Chef’s Knives, Paring Knives, Utility Knives, Santoku Knives, and Serrated Knives.  

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!

Pizza can often be a last minute, grab and go decision. Pizza is always a crowd pleaser and there’s no question that it can be an ordinary meal, but make no mistake; a pizza can be the start to a decadent meal, able to impress the most sophisticated palette.

You can elevate your mealtime by pairing and selecting your ingredients with purpose and by upgrading how, and what you use, to make and bake your pizza.

Our choices of ingredients are a refreshing take on some of the classic elements of an ordinary pizza. The prosciutto and provolone are sophisticated twists on the classic choices of pepperoni and mozzarella. By adding arugula and figs to our combination, our recipe provides a unique experience for your taste buds that ensures a savory and sweet note in every bite.

You can upgrade how you make your pizza by baking it on a pizza stone. A pizza stone turns out a better tasting, more delectable pizza. The difference is particularly with the pizza crust. Pizza stones produce a perfectly evenly baked pizza crust from the edges to the center of the pizza and guarantee golden brown crispy dough. The evenly baked and crispiness of the crust is key; delicious pizzas are never soggy in the middle and a pizza stone makes sure of that.  For this recipe, our Mamma Mia Pizza Maker is essential to cooking and serving our absolutely mouthwatering fig and prosciutto pizza.

Ingredients

1 pound room temperature, fresh pizza dough

2 cups of cherry tomatoes, cut in halves

4 fresh ripe figs, cut into quarters

3-4 garlic cloves, minced

6 ounces of provolone cheese, thinly sliced

8 thinly sliced pieces of prosciutto

2 cups of fresh arugula, washed and rinsed

2 tablespoons of virgin olive oil

1 teaspoon of crushed dried thyme

3 ounces of grated Parmesan cheese

¼ teaspoon crushed black pepper

½ teaspoon kosher salt

¼ cup flour

Preparation

1. Preheat oven to 500⁰F and place our pizza stone in the oven. The stone should be in the oven as it preheats.
2. Roll dough into a 12-inch circle on a lightly floured surface and pierce entire surface liberally with a fork.
3. Combine olive oil and garlic in a small bowl. Brush on olive oil and garlic mixture with our thinkkitchen brush.
4. Cover surface of pizza dough with slices of provolone cheese, leaving ½ inch of the crust edge free of cheese and place halved cherry tomatoes on top.
5. Carefully remove pizza stone from oven. Sprinkle flour over pizza stone and place dough on top of stone. Bake pizza crust until it is golden brown on top and on the bottom, roughly 15 to 20 minutes.
6. Remove crust from oven using our thinkkitchen silicone mitts and place on the metal rack and immediately drape prosciutto slices over the pizza. Arrange fig slices atop of prosciutto.
7. Bake until figs are just heated through, about 1 minute. Transfer pizza to cutting board.
8. On top, add arugula and Parmesan cheese sparingly. If you like, you can drizzle on a touch of extra virgin olive oil or a balsamic reduction before serving. Evenly sprinkle with crushed thyme, salt and pepper to taste.
9. Cut into slices using our pizza scissors, serve and enjoy with a light and delicate tasting Italian wine like a Barolo or Barbera D’Alba, which will pair well with the prosciutto and won’t overwhelm the light, sweet taste of the figs. These wines are best enjoyed in our Riedel Assiago drinkware collection.

Here to help you take your pizza night to the next level! If you want to share your pizza with us on social media, please tag us on Instagram @stokesstores and use the hashtag #StokesMoments.

The holidays aren’t only the most wonderful time of the year because of pretty decorations, presents, and parties. If you’re anything like us, one of the things you’ve been looking forward to the most are the endless goodies and treats you get to enjoy guilt-free, well… because it’s the holidays!  Baking holiday cookies is an essential part of getting in the holiday spirit. They are an easy dessert to enjoy at family gatherings, a way to add a festive touch at tea time and they are great for giving as delicious gifts to your friends. And remember, if you have little ones don’t forget that you’ll need some cookies to leave out for a particular cookie aficionado on Christmas Eve!

This season, why not get festive by baking a favorite holiday cookie with a twist.  Here we will share with you a few recipe ideas that have fun, colorful and tasty spins on festive classics that will be sure to please your loved ones year after year.

One thing we can promise, these cookies will make a tasty surprise and have everyone feeling the joy of the holiday season! As always, we have everything you need for all your Holiday baking needs.

Let the baking begin!

Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies

The irresistible buttery taste of melt in your mouth shortbread cookies are a holiday baking staple. This delectable spin on a classic shortbread brings out the best in the most festive fruits; cranberry and oranges. The tang of citrus and touch of bitter-sweet berries will bring your enjoyment of this charming holiday classic to the next level.

Ingredients

• ½ cup of dried cranberries
• ¾ cup of sugar
• 2½ cups all purpose flour
• 1 cup butter, cold and cubed
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• 4 tablespoons of orange zest, grated
• 1- 2 tablespoon of fresh orange juice (optional)
• 1 cup additional sugar to coat cookies before baking (optional)

Preparation

1. Line the cookie pan with parchment paper and set aside.
2. Combine cranberries and ¼ cup of sugar in the food chopper. Processes until the cranberries are broken down into smaller pieces. Set aside.
3. Combine flour and remaining ½ cup of sugar in a deep mixing bowl (5L).
4. Use a blender (available in store only) to cut in butter.
5. Stir in the almond extract, cranberry-sugar mixture, orange zest and orange juice.
6. Use your hands to knead the dough until it is smooth and holds its shape.
7. Shape dough into a log about two inches in a diameter and wrap in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for two hours or up to 72 hours.
8. Preheat oven to 325ºF.
9. Cut slices of cookie dough about ¼ inches thick.
10. Place half a cup of sugar in a bowl and coat the cookie slices with sugar (optional).
11. Place cookies on the cookie pan and bake for 12 to 15 minutes.
12. Let cookies cool for several minutes on baking sheet before removing to cooling rack.

Caramel Stuffed Soft Gingerbread cookies

Give your cookie lovers a surprise when they bite into your mouth-wateringly warm caramel stuffed soft gingerbread cookies. This chewy new take on the molasses and ginger holiday tradition will leave your loved ones speechless, while they munch on the caramel-filled delight. Add this recipe to your Christmas cookie platter and watch them disappear.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup molasses
• 2 eggs
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 2 teaspoons ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves
• 3 1/2 cups all purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons of cornstarch
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 24 Kraft caramels

Preparation

1. In the bowl of your thinkkitchen Promix Stand Mixer, cream together the softened butter and sugar until smooth.
2. Add the molasses and mix thoroughly.
3. Crack in the eggs, mixing in one at a time, scraping down the sides as you go with a spatula.
4. Mix in the vanilla, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
5. Add the flour, cornstarch, baking soda and salt, and mix until combined.
6. Cover and chill in the fridge for 30-40 minutes.
7. Preheat your oven to 350ºF and line three sheet pans with parchment paper.
8. Taking about 1/2-1 tablespoon of dough, roll into a ball.
9. Place two balls of dough on either side of a caramel, press them together and pinch the edges firmly to cover the caramel completely, and then roll into a ball. Repeat.
10. Set balls of dough on cookie pan 2 inches apart.
11. Bake for 9-10 minutes, until flattened, but puffy.
12. Allow to cool for 5 min on the baking sheet before removing, to avoid having the caramels melt through the bottom on the cooling racks.
13. Serve while the cookies are still warm to be sure the caramel does not harden, or warm in the microwave before serving.

Peppermint Sugar Cookies

Sugar cookies are the official cookie of merry cut-outs and festive frosting. Give this authentic holiday cookie a taste of excitement by adding crushed peppermint candy to the equation. Crunching into this enticing take on a sweet classic will bring a burst of flavor into the season of giving.

Ingredients

• 3¾ cups all purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1½ cups butter, room temperature
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup finely ground candy canes or round peppermint candies
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon peppermint extract
• 2 eggs
• 1 egg yolk

Preparation

1. Mix together flour and salt in a deep mixing bowl (5L).
2. Using food processor grind peppermint candy to fine sugar consistency.
3. In a separate bowl, using a hand mixer, beat butter, sugar, and ground peppermint together until blended.
4. Add eggs and vanilla extract, use hand mixer to mix thoroughly.
5. Add the flour and salt mixture gradually to the combined butter, sugar and ground peppermint.
6. Separate into 2 pieces, wrap in plastic and let chill in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
7. Preheat oven to 350ºF and line a sheet pan with parchment paper.
8. Spread flour on your work surface, and roll dough with our non-stick rolling pin to ¼ inch thickness.
9. Flour your cookie cutters before cutting shapes from dough.
10. Place on cookie pan and bake at 350ºF for 8-10 minutes or until the edges start to brown.
11. Let cool completely before decorating.

Once your cookie tray is filled and your cookies are ready to be gobbled up, brew yourself a hot cocoa or tea, and use our milk frother to make it extra special. Your warm drink will be extra jolly in our Festive Mug.

Helping you make sure you and your loved ones enjoy every bite of the holiday season this year,

We make sure to treat our clients like family, and if you follow us on social media, you know we like to delight you all with giveaways and sweepstakes. A couple of months ago, we offered a prize that included a cooking experience with the well-known Quebec-based cooking institute Ateliers & Saveurs. We gave away spots to 6 lucky winners and their guests, but we wanted to make sure everyone of you got a taste of this experience. So we decided to share with you the delicious recipe the winners learned to cook and got to enjoy. Now you can experience the same thing! Try the recipe they learned to cook and got to enjoy every bite of in the comfort of your own homes – this way everyone is a winner!

With the guidance from the knowledgeable and skilled instructors of Ateliers & Saveurs, learn to cook and beautifully plate a 3 course meal consisting of a salmon tartare entrée, a honey baked duck breast main dish and a delicious chocolate molten cake with vanilla English cream for dessert.

Serve this to family or friends and they’ll be wondering what they did to deserve such an extraordinary meal!

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Salmon Tartare with yogurt, fresh basil and lime zest

Servings 4 people

Author Ateliers & Saveurs

Ingredients

• 480 g salmon filet skinned and diced
• 1 shallot
• 3 ml capers
• 1 lime
• 4 sprigs basil
• 60 ml 10% plain yogurt
• 8 radishes
• ½ baguette

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 400°F. Slice the baguette on an angle to get thin, long slices. Place the slices on a baking sheet and drizzle on olive oil. Season with salt and pepper and bake for roughly 10 minutes or until preferred crispiness.
• Finely chop the basil leaves, shallots, and capers, keeping a few basil leaves as a garnish. Zest and juice the lime. Cut the salmon into small cubes. Slice the radishes thinly with a mandoline.
• In the Deep Mixing Bowl, mix the diced salmon, capers, shallots, basil, lime zest, and yogurt. Season with salt and pepper.
• Form the tartare in a round cookie cutter. Remove the cookie cutter and garnish the salmon with basil leaves and slices of radish. Serve with a few croutons on the side.

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Honey Baked Duck Breast with creamy mushroom polenta and green asparagus tips

Servings 4 people

Author Ateliers et Saveurs

Ingredients

• 2 duck breasts
• 100 ml honey
• 5 ml four spice mix
• 3 pinches of salt
• 3 turns of freshly ground white pepper
• 100 g polenta
• 600 ml vegetable stock
• 25 g mascarpone cheese
• 8 button mushrooms
• 1 portobello mushroom
• 25 g grated parmesan cheese
• 4 sprigs of parsley
• 12 green asparagus
• 4 cipollini onions
• 30 g butter

Instructions

• Start by cleaning the mushrooms. To remove the dirt, use a wet cloth. Slice the mushrooms lengthwise. Grate the parmesan, trim off the bottom ends of the asparagus, and peel and slice the onions.
  
• Heat a sauce pan, like the Remy Olivier Sabayon Frypan, and stir fry the mushrooms in some oil and butter. Add in the parsley when the mushrooms are nearly cooked. Take off heat and set aside on absorbent paper. Bring the vegetable stock to a boil. Sprinkle in the polenta while mixing constantly. Cook for 13 to 15 minutes, and continue stirring with our thinkkitchen Milan Wood Spoon until it thickens. Add the parmesan and the mascarpone cheese. Mold the polenta in a 1 inch pan to let it harden and cool to about room temperature. You can place the pan in the refrigerator to speed up the process. Portion the polenta into 4 servings that can be shaped like a patty, into a log or strips. Before serving, sear the polenta patties in butter.
  
• Preheat your oven to 425°F. Using the small Remy Olivier Force Frypan, melt the honey on low heat. Mix in the 4 spice mix and cook for 3 minutes. Do not bring to a boil. Salt and pepper the duck breast and sear it in a hot pan, starting by the side with skin. Turn over and repeat using the thinkkitchen Kitchen Tongs. Transfer the duck breast onto a baking sheet and baste on the honey spiced sauce. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes. Let rest for 5 minutes before cutting.
  
• Bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil. The Arezzo Sauce Pan would do the trick! Blanch the asparagus in the boiling water for 3 to 4 minutes. Cool them down by placing the asparagus in very cold water. In separate Remy Olivier Force Frypans, stir fry the asparagus and onions in duck fat until the onions reach a golden-brown colour and the asparagus is soft. Take the asparagus off the heat and continue cooking the onions on low heat until they are candied.
  
• Put the polenta patty in the center of the plate and place the mushrooms on top. It will look especially good on our Snow White Square Dinner Plate. Lay the sliced duck breast alongside the polenta and generously garnish the plate with the onion petals and asparagus. Finish it off by drizzling some of the spiced-honey sauce on top of the meat.
  

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Chocolate Molten Cake with a white chocolate heart and vanilla English cream

Servings 4 people

Author Ateliers & Saveurs

Ingredients

• 115 g butter
• 30 g maple syrup
• 2 eggs
• 4 egg yolks separated into pairs
• 70 g sugar
• 70 g wheat flour
• 175 g dark chocolate
• 12 cubes of white chocolate or pistols
• 200 ml milk
• 40 g sugar
• 1 Madagascar vanilla bean
• 1 box of berries

Instructions

• Cut the vanilla bean lengthwise into two and scrape out the seeds from the pod. In a Deep Mixing Bowl, beat the first 2 egg yolks and sugar until the mixture lightens in colour. Add in the vanilla seeds and continue beating until completely combined. In the Arezzo Saucepan, bring the milk and the vanilla pod to a boil. Remove from heat and, in a bowl, add in half of the egg mixture to weaken the mix. Pour the mixture back into the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly with a spatula until the cream sticks to the back of your spoon. Immediately remove from heat, transfer to a bowl and let cool.
• Preheat your oven to 425°F. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and second batch of egg yolks. In a double boiler, melt the chocolate with the maple syrup and butter. Remove from heat and add the mixture to the eggs. Using a whisk, combine the flour and sugar and then add it to the chocolate mixture. Mix thoroughly. Lightly grease the thinkkitchen Non-stick Mini Spring Forms. Place on a baking sheet. Fill the forms with a little bit of chocolate mixture until about 1/4 full, then place 3 white chocolate cubes on top and continue to fill the mold till about 2/3 full. Bake for 10-15 minutes, until the surface of the molten cake starts to become matte. Remove from oven and let stand for 5 minutes.
• Flip your molds over on to a plate and serve it with a glass jar of vanilla English cream. You can serve your molten cake decorated with fresh berries for a touch of colour!

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