Essential French-Inspired Baking & Cooking Tools I Can’t Live Without

Bonjour! Just a note that this post may contain affiliate links. That means I may earn a small commission if you choose to make a purchase — at no extra cost to you. I only share items I use, love, or would recommend to a dear friend. Merci for supporting this little corner of the internet!

French Baking Classics

There’s something magical about baking and cooking with beautiful, well-made tools — especially when they bring a touch of French elegance to your kitchen. Whether you're whipping up buttery madeleines or a rustic fruit galette (I have some great ways to make this within 20 minutes), I always reach for a few tried-and-true favorites that combine form and function. In this post, I’m sharing the essential French-inspired baking and cooking tools that I use and love, from iconic bakeware to charming mixing bowls.

1. Emile Henry Bakeware – Classic French Elegance

Nothing beats the quality and beauty of Emile Henry ceramic bakeware. Made in Burgundy, France, their dishes are crafted from high-fired Burgundy clay, which ensures even baking and gorgeous presentation straight from oven to table. I especially love their pie dishes and rectangular bakers — perfect for everything from gratins to rustic tarts. Even if you're not making French inspired classics, these baking dishes add a bit of flair to the everyday, especially if you need to impress someone, like your in-laws!

👉 Why I love it: Oven-to-table design, even heat distribution, and timeless French style.

2. Gâteau by Aleksandra Crapanzano – My Favorite French Baking Book

If you only own one French baking book, make it Gâteau. Aleksandra Crapanzano beautifully captures the essence of French home baking — unfussy, elegant, and totally delicious. The recipes are accessible yet refined, and her writing transports you straight to a sun-dappled Parisian kitchen.

👉 Favorite recipe so far: The chocolate gateau with fleur de sel — simple and divine.

3. Mason Cash Mixing Bowls – A Timeless European Classic

While not strictly French, Mason Cash bowls have earned their place in my kitchen for their vintage charm and practicality. Their sturdy ceramic construction is perfect for mixing delicate batters or kneading dough. I keep mine displayed on open shelves when not in use — they’re that pretty.

👉 Pro tip: Mix and match all of their beautiful colored bowls for a style that's all your own.

4. Madeleine Baking Pans – For the Quintessential French Treat

Madeleines are one of those iconic French bakes that feel fancy yet are surprisingly easy to make with the right pan. I use a nonstick madeleine pan with shell-shaped molds that give the perfect golden crust and signature hump. A dusting of powdered sugar is all they need! I'll include a whole separate post about how to bake the perfect madeleines. They truly are a little bit fussy, but when made correctly can be that little bite that makes your day so much better.

👉 Tip: Chill the batter and the pan for that perfect rise.

5. My Favorite Crepe Skillet – Perfectly Thin Every Time

A well-seasoned crepe pan is a must if you love making delicate, lacy crêpes. But for those of us who are on a time crunch and need something more approachable, my electric non-stick crepe skillet is all I need. Every crepe comes out perfect with very little effort. Just add Nutella and some bananas and you have your very own slice of Paris right at home.

👉 Bonus: It’s also great for omelets and galettes bretonnes (savory buckwheat crepes).

6. French-Inspired Kitchen Details

It’s not just about tools — little touches like wooden spoons, copper measuring cups, and classic red-striped tea towels add warmth and charm to your kitchen. These details make everyday cooking feel a bit more special. Remember, it's all about making your life feel like home. So whatever little details you want to add to your kitchen is all about what makes you feel cozy and comfortable!

Cooking and baking with French-inspired tools doesn’t just elevate your recipes — it transforms your entire kitchen experience. Whether you’re creating a classic gâteau or simply stirring batter in a beautiful ceramic bowl, these timeless items add beauty, function, and a touch of joy to your culinary routine. Make life a little more elegant and take care of yourself with these little touches. You deserve them!