10 Last Minute Gifts for Baking That Really Take the Cake in 2024

Baking might seem simple, but those who love to do it know that it’s a precise science, a little bit of art, and most of all, a labor of love to whip up a treat that will put a smile on your loved ones’ faces. Whether the baking enthusiast in your life is the de facto birthday cake designer of the family or even owns their own business, whether they’ve been baking for years or are just getting serious about their baking journey, one thing’s for sure: a baking-related gift is always a good idea.

If you’ve totally forgotten to pick out a great gift for the baker in your life – or you’re feeling overwhelmed by all of the options out there – don’t worry! We’ve gathered some fantastic last minute gift ideas for baking so that you can find them a present that really takes the cake, like:

• Practical pans and decorating essentials to make their bakes easier
• Luxury ingredients that will elevate their next recipe
• Subscriptions and gift certificates they can use whenever they want 

PS – We’re also calling out some GiftYa digital gift cards that make great gift ideas for baking throughout the list, either as a standalone gift or to supplement one of the ideas on this list. And don’t forget, with GiftYa Select, now you can put more power in their hands than ever before by letting them pick any merchant they want from our catalog… but the gift balance is still wrapped and delivered to their text or email in seconds. 

Learn more about GiftYa Select >>

But with all of that out of the way, there’s only one thing left to do – dive into our awesome baking gift ideas! So let’s get to it. 

1. Deluxe Bakeware Set

Text a Crate & Barrel gift card

When it comes to the kitchen, ceramic is the gold standard. That includes ceramic pans, ceramic bowls for their KitchenAid mixer, the ceramic surface of a French top stove, and yes, even ceramic bakeware. 

Why? Ceramic heats more evenly than other materials, like glass or plastic, which means their baked goods will cook more evenly, too. Plus, it’s non-porous, which means it won’t bring the flavors of their last bake to their new one. It’s even naturally nonstick, so they don’t have to up the unhealthiness of their baked goods by using oil or butter to coat the baking surface.

If it’s in your budget, a full set like this 11-piece ceramic bakeware essentials set from Caraway make a great last minute gift for baking. But if you don’t have a cool couple hundred dollars to drop on this present, any individual item – even from a high-end brand like this – should run more in the $25-$50 price range.

Pro Tip: Check if the bakeware set is dishwasher-safe and oven-safe to make cleanup and baking even easier. Or text them a gift card to a store that carries high-end kitchenware like Crate & Barrel, Sur La Table, or Williams Sonoma so they can pick out a set for themselves.

Text a Crate & Barrel gift card

2. Artisan Baking Mixes

If you're short on time but want to give something delicious and easy to use, artisan baking mixes are an excellent choice. From gourmet brownie mixes to premium bread dough, these mixes are designed to make baking at home a breeze while still producing top-notch results.

Artisan baking mixes allow the recipient to enjoy a high-quality baking experience without having to measure out all the ingredients. It’s perfect for those busy days when they want to whip up something sweet with minimal effort. 

You can usually find baking mixes like this at the mall – stores like Williams Sonoma typically have some in stock (and maybe even offer samples so you can try before you buy the kit!) You can also find plenty of options online, like this beautiful Artisan Baking Kit. It even comes complete with a mixing bowl and jar, which they’ll be able to use for many bakes to come.

Pro Tip: Look for mixes with unique flavors or high-end ingredients, such as chocolate chunks or vanilla bean, to add a little “bite” of luxury to the gift.

3. Personalized Rolling Pin

Buy an Amazon gift card

A personalized rolling pin adds a unique and personal touch to any baking setup. There are tons of options out there, including rolling pins engraved with the recipient’s name, a favorite quote, or even intricate patterns that can be imprinted onto dough – which is called an embossing rolling pin.

It’s the perfect blend of practical and personal. A customized rolling pin makes the baking process a little more fun – because let’s face it, no matter how much they love baking, sometimes getting through that last batch of cookies can be kind of a slog! – and adds a special touch to homemade cookies or pies.

Pro Tip: Pair the rolling pin with a set of cookie cutters for a complete gift package that inspires creativity.

Buy an Amazon gift card

4. Baking Tool Organizer

Grab a HomeGoods gift card

Baking tool organizers come in many shapes and sizes, from fold out plastic bins and over the shoulder bags for bakers on the go to drawer dividers, countertop caddies, and even wall-mounted racks for bakers who usually set up at home. No matter which of these options you choose, it will keep essential tools like spatulas, whisks, and measuring spoons neatly arranged and easy to access.

Caddies like this one are easy to find – swing by any store that sells home goods, and you’re sure to find options that fit a variety of aesthetics… including the one your favorite baker has in their kitchen.

Pro Tip: Choose an organizer made from durable materials like stainless steel or bamboo for long-lasting use.

Grab a HomeGoods gift card

5. High-Quality Vanilla Extract

Vanilla extract seems so simple, but a high-quality vanilla extract can really make the difference in how a cake, cookie, or other recipe turns out. For starters, there’s a big difference between real vanilla extract vs imitation vanilla extract. And since the real stuff is typically pricer, it’s a nice little upgrade you can get the baker in your life.

Penzeys Spices is a mom and pop spice company that has gone national. Based in Wauwatosa, WI, they’re just as dedicated to doing good in their community and kitchens around the world as they were when they set out to “make the world better” in 1986… and bring the best spices from regions all over the world to American kitchens, too.

They have several options when it comes to vanilla extract and other baking necessities, like:

🧁 Single vanilla extract - made from 100% premium Madagascar “Bourbon Islands” vanilla beans using a cool-perking process to retain the beans’ full flavor

🧁 Double vanilla extract - just like the single vanilla extract, but using twice as many beans per gallon for an even deeper flavor. According to Penzeys, the two-fold flavor has been “the secret ingredient of professional bakers for years.”

🧁 Baker’s gift boxes - ranging from affordable mini jars of their most popular baking spices to more complete sets with full half-cup jars of their most popular products for baking all wrapped up in beautiful packaging.

Other products like whole Madagascar vanilla beans and high-quality almond extract also make great options.

6. Baking Books + Magazines

Buy a Barnes & Noble gift card

For the baker who loves to stay inspired and discover new recipes, a bestselling baking cookbook or subscription to a baking magazine is a perfect gift. Magazines often feature a variety of recipes, tips, and trends that can help expand their baking repertoire.

Pro Tip: Choose a magazine that aligns with their baking interests, whether it’s focused on cakes, bread, pastries, or healthy baking.

Buy a Barnes & Noble gift card

7. Cookie Decorating Kit

A cookie decorating kit is ideal for those who love to add a personal touch to their baked creations. Kits typically include tools like piping bags, various tips, edible decorations, and sometimes even pre-made cookie dough.

This gift is very beginner friendly. Expert bakers will also appreciate a cookie decorating kit, particularly if they have little ones or a partner they would love to get in on the baking fun. 

Pro Tip: Look for kits that come with instructional guides or online tutorials to help them get started.

8. Silpat Baking Mat

A Silpat baking mat is a must-have for any serious baker. These non-stick mats can be used in place of parchment paper and are perfect for baking cookies, pastries, and more. They’re reusable and can handle high temperatures, making them a top choice for bakers everywhere.

Some silpat baking mats even come with spacing guidelines so they’ll get the perfect macarons, chocolate chip cookies, or mini loafs every time.

Pro Tip: Consider gifting a set that includes different sizes or shapes of baking mats to cover all their baking needs.

9. Artisan Cookie Cutters

Cookie cutters come in all shapes and sizes, but artisan cookie cutters add a touch of creativity and elegance. Look for sets that feature unique designs, such as intricate shapes or themed cutters for holidays and special occasions. That can mean lacey pizzelle-like designs to give all of their cookies a little touch of elegance, or fun cookie shapes modeled after their favorite Pokemon. There are so many options out there!

Pro Tip: Pair the cookie cutters with a rolling pin or a recipe book for a comprehensive gift that covers all their cookie-making needs.

10. Baking Class Gift Certificate

If you’re looking for a gift that’s both memorable and educational, consider an experience gift like setting them up to attend a baking class. Many local bakeries and cooking schools offer classes on everything from cake decorating to bread baking.

Or, if there aren’t any in-person options nearby that match their skill-level and interests, you can always consider an online option like MasterClass.

Pro Tip: Choose a class that aligns with their interests, whether they want to improve their cake decorating skills or learn how to make artisan bread.

You don’t have to plan for weeks to give a baking gift that’s totally sweet.

Finding the perfect gift for a baking enthusiast doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. With these thoughtful and practical last-minute gift ideas, you can ensure that your gift stands out and brings joy to the recipient. Whether it’s a high-quality baking tool, a personalized item, or a fun experience, these options are sure to please any baker and enhance their kitchen adventures.

So, next time you find yourself scrambling for a gift, remember these ideas and turn your last-minute scramble into a tasty surprise. Happy gifting, and happy baking!