The Graduate's Guide To Kitchen Confidence: Investing In A Cookware Set

A graduation cookware set is a great gift for any graduate moving into their first kitchen. Whether they're moving into a college dorm or their first apartment, a set of pots and pans is a thoughtful and practical gift.

Starter sets are a great way to help graduates feel prepared for their new life. These sets typically include essentials like plates, bowls, utensils, glasses, mugs, and cutlery, as well as bakeware. For those with limited space, smaller sets with only the must-haves for basic cooking are also available.

When choosing a graduation cookware set, look for non-stick and dishwasher-safe options that are compatible with different stovetops and ovens.

Starter sets: Essentials like plates, bowls, utensils, glasses, mugs, and cutlery

Starter sets are a great way to stock a kitchen with essential items like plates, bowls, utensils, glasses, mugs, and cutlery. These sets are perfect for new graduates who are moving into their first home and need a comprehensive collection of kitchen essentials.

The AmazonBasics 16-piece Kitchen Dinnerware Set is a simple yet functional collection that includes plates, salad plates, bowls, and mugs. The plain white porcelain design ensures longevity and highlights the food served on it. The set is also scratch-resistant, dishwasher-, freezer-, and microwave-safe.

The 28-piece Wheat Straw Dinnerware Set is another great option for graduates. The set includes wheat straw plates and bowls, along with cutlery, and is ideal for college dorms. It is dishwasher-, microwave-, and oven-safe.

For a more comprehensive set, the 49-piece Tribal Cooking Silverware Set includes stainless steel flatware, a cutlery set, and kitchen utensils. The set is dishwasher-safe and features a stunning polished finish.

The 24-piece Umite Chef Kitchen Cooking Utensils Set offers an extensive collection of non-stick, heat-resistant silicone cooking utensils with wooden handles. The set includes a holder, spatulas, and various kitchen gadgets, making it a perfect starter kit for new graduates.

The 24-piece AmazonBasics Porcelain Kitchen Dinnerware Set is another excellent option, featuring plates, bowls, and mugs for four people. The simple yet elegant design complements any dining table, and the set is dishwasher-, freezer-, and microwave-safe.

These starter sets provide new graduates with the essential kitchenware they need to begin their culinary journey.

Cookware sets: Pots and pans, often non-stick and oven-safe

A cookware set is a great gift for graduates, who are often moving into their first apartments and need to stock their kitchens. When selecting a cookware set, it's important to consider the graduate's needs and preferences. For example, if they have limited kitchen space, a small, stripped-down set with only the essentials might be best. On the other hand, if they love to cook and have ample cabinet space, a larger set with a variety of pots and pans might be more suitable.

Non-stick cookware sets are a popular choice for graduates because they are easy to cook with and clean. The GreenPan Hudson Ceramic Nonstick Four-Piece Set, for instance, includes a 12" frypan, a 3-quart saute pan with a lid, and a 2-quart saucepan—all with a ceramic nonstick coating. Another option is the Tasty 11-piece non-stick cookware set, which includes a 9.5" fry pan, an 11" griddle pan, saucepans, a Dutch oven, and more.

If the graduate is likely to use their cookware set frequently, it's worth investing in a higher-quality option that will last longer. The Cuisinart Multiclad Pro 12-Piece Cookware Set, for example, is made of triple-ply stainless steel and comes with a lifetime warranty. It includes pots and pans of various sizes, all of which are oven-safe up to 550 degrees Fahrenheit and compatible with gas, electric, and induction stovetops.

In addition to non-stick coatings, some cookware sets have special features that make them especially convenient for graduates. For example, some sets come with food storage containers or measuring cups included. Others have colourful handles that the graduate will love to show off. Ultimately, the best cookware set for a graduate will depend on their individual needs and preferences, so it's worth doing some research to find the perfect set.

Bakeware sets: Baking and cookie pans, muffin tins, etc

A good bakeware set is essential for any graduate who wants to get into baking. It can be a great way to relieve stress and bond with friends and family. There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a bakeware set. Firstly, consider the design and ergonomics. Make sure the set fits your available storage space and that each piece can be comfortably gripped, even with oven mittens. Secondly, bakeware sets can be made from various materials such as stainless steel, porcelain, Pyrex, and silicone, each with its own pros and cons. For example, stainless steel is durable and easy to clean, while silicone is flexible and lightweight. Thirdly, choose a set with pan sizes that match your baking needs. If you're a beginner, opt for a set with medium-sized pans to practice without wasting too much food. Lastly, ensure that the set includes all the essential tools you need for baking.

Calphalon Nonstick Bakeware Set

This set is made of heavy-gauge steel, making it easy to clean and maintain. It features a non-stick interior that releases food up to 2x better than classic Calphalon bakeware. The set includes two 8-inch round cake pans, a 13-inch by 9-inch cake pan, a 12-cup muffin pan, a 15-inch by 10-inch cookie sheet, and a medium-sized loaf pan, perfect for small to medium baking needs. It has an attractive design and is dishwasher-safe.

Rachael Ray Nonstick Bakeware 5-Piece Set

This set includes durable carbon steel pans with silicone grips, making them comfortable to touch and easy to grip. The set can withstand temperatures up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit, ideal for most baked dishes. It has an attractive design that pairs well with existing kitchen appliances.

Rachael Ray Cucina 10-Piece Bakeware Set

This set offers a wider range of pan sizes and is made of durable carbon steel with silicone grips for comfort and ease of use. It can withstand temperatures up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit and has a non-stick surface for easy cleaning.

Circulon Nonstick Bakeware 5-Piece Bakeware Set

This affordable set has a chocolate brown colour that can match your existing cookware. It is made from heavy-gauge steel to prevent scratches and warping. The unique feature of this set is the raised circles on its non-stick coating, which prevents baked goods from sticking to the surface. It is backed by a hassle-free lifetime guarantee.

Perlli Complete Bakeware Set 10-Piece Non-Stick

This 10-piece set has everything you need for baking, including heavy-gauge carbon steel construction to ensure even heating and a reliable non-stick coating. The design is attractive, making it a great gift option.

Cook's tools: Utensils, measuring cups, mixing bowls, etc

When it comes to kitting out a kitchen, it's important to have the right tools for the job. Here are some essential cooks' tools to get you started:

Utensils

Utensils are the lifeblood of the kitchen, and a good set will last you a long time. A basic set should include a spatula, ladle, flipper, and slotted spoon. For something a little more comprehensive, look for a set that includes a can opener, whisk, grater, peeler, and various types of spoons and spatulas.

Measuring Cups and Spoons

Measuring cups and spoons are essential for any cook, whether you're following a recipe or creating your own. Look for a set that includes standard cup measurements, as well as ounces and milliliters. For dry measuring cups, you'll want something sturdy with a rubber-tipped handle for comfort and ease of use. Liquid measuring cups should have handles and pour spouts to make measuring and pouring a breeze.

Mixing Bowls

Mixing bowls are another kitchen essential, and you'll want a set that includes a variety of sizes. Ceramic and stainless steel are good options for durability, but plastic is lightweight and easy to pour. Some mixing bowl sets also come with lids and pouring spouts for added convenience.

Small appliances: Blenders, coffee makers, air fryers, etc

Small appliances are a great gift for graduates, especially those moving into their first home. Here are some ideas for small appliances that are perfect for a graduation gift:

Blenders

Blenders are a must-have for any kitchen and make an excellent gift for graduates. They can be used to make smoothies, soups, sauces, and more. When choosing a blender, consider the graduate's needs and preferences. If they are always on the go, a personal or single-serve blender might be the best option. These blenders usually come with a to-go cup, making it easy to take your drink with you. Some popular options include:

• Hamilton Beach Personal Blender
• NutriBullet Blender
• Ninja Professional Blender

Coffee Makers

Coffee makers are another popular small appliance for graduates. After all, coffee is the lifeblood of students and young professionals! There are two main types of coffee makers to choose from: drip coffee makers and single-serve pod coffee makers. Drip coffee makers are easy to use and can brew multiple cups at once, while single-serve pod coffee makers offer the convenience of disposable pods and quick brewing. Some highly-rated coffee makers include:

• Keurig K-Cafe
• Braun Brew Sense Drip Coffee Maker
• Nespresso CitiZ
• Nespresso Essenza Mini

Air Fryers

Air fryers are a healthy and convenient way to cook delicious meals. They are compact, making them ideal for small spaces, and they can cook a variety of foods, from chicken wings to fries. Air fryers are a great gift for graduates who want to cook quick and easy meals without sacrificing taste. Some popular options include:

• Dash Compact Air Fryer
• ARIA Family-Size Air Fryer
• Cosori Premium Air Fryer

Other Small Appliances

In addition to blenders, coffee makers, and air fryers, there are many other small appliances that can make great graduation gifts. These include:

• Toasters
• Mini fridges
• Electric kettles
• Slow cookers
• Rice cookers

Frequently asked questions