Have you ever dreamed of making perfectly shaped cookies, just like the ones from your favorite bakery? It can be tricky to get that beautiful, consistent look with just your hands or a simple cookie cutter. That’s where a good cookie press comes in! But with so many different cookie presses out there, how do you know which one is the best? It’s tough to figure out which one will make your holiday baking easier and your cookies look amazing.
That’s why we dove into the world of cookie presses, with a special focus on those tested by the experts at America’s Test Kitchen. They put them through their paces, so you don’t have to! In this post, we’ll explore what makes a cookie press truly great and share the insights you need to pick the perfect one for your kitchen.
Get ready to discover the secrets to effortless cookie decorating and impress everyone with your beautiful, homemade treats. We’ll break down what America’s Test Kitchen looks for, so you can bake with confidence.
Our Top 5 Cookie Press America’S Test Kitchen Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
OXO Good Grips 14-Piece Cookie Press Set | 8.8/10 | Check Price |
 |
Fresh Pasta at Home: 10 Doughs | 8.8/10 | Check Price |
 |
Stainless Steel Cookie Press | 8.6/10 | Check Price |
 |
America’s Test Kitchen Better With Bacon: 20 Bacon-Loaded Recipes | 8.5/10 | Check Price |
 |
OXO Softworks 20-Piece Cookie Press Set | 8.7/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Cookie Press America’S Test Kitchen Detailed Reviews
1. OXO Good Grips 14-Piece Cookie Press Set
Rating: 9.5/10
Making perfectly shaped cookies is now a breeze with the OXO Good Grips 14-Piece Cookie Press Set. This set helps you create beautiful, consistent cookies every time, making baking more fun and less messy.
What We Like:
- It makes cookies that look the same every time.
- The stainless steel disks are strong and come in 12 different shapes, including fun custom ones.
- The base has a non-slip grip, so the cookie press stays put while you use it.
- The clear body lets you see how much cookie dough you have left.
- The big, easy-to-grip lever is comfortable, even if you make a lot of cookies.
- It breaks down easily for filling with dough and cleaning up afterward.
- A handy case keeps all the cookie disks organized and easy to find.
- This cookie press is BPA free.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the disks are durable, some of the more intricate designs might require a bit more practice to get perfect.
This OXO cookie press is a fantastic tool for any home baker. It simplifies the cookie-making process and adds a touch of fun with its variety of designs.
2. Fresh Pasta at Home: 10 Doughs
Rating: 8.6/10
Dreaming of authentic, delicious pasta made right in your own kitchen? This comprehensive guide, “Fresh Pasta at Home: 10 Doughs, 20 Shapes, 100+ Recipes, with or without a Machine,” unlocks the secrets to homemade pasta perfection. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner cook, this resource empowers you to create a wide variety of pasta dishes, from classic fettuccine to fun, shaped noodles. You’ll discover how to make doughs with different flours and ingredients, master various shaping techniques, and explore a world of delicious recipes. Best of all, it shows you how to achieve these amazing results with or without a pasta-making machine, making it accessible for everyone.
What We Like:
- Offers a huge variety of pasta doughs and shapes to try.
- Provides over 100 recipes, giving you endless meal ideas.
- Works for people who have a pasta machine and those who don’t.
- Teaches you how to make pasta from scratch, which is rewarding.
- The instructions are clear and easy to follow for beginners.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some recipes might require less common ingredients.
- The sheer number of options could feel a bit overwhelming at first.
This guide is an excellent investment for anyone who loves pasta and wants to elevate their home cooking. Get ready to impress yourself and your family with incredible homemade pasta!
3. Stainless Steel Cookie Press
Rating: 8.9/10
Get ready to bake beautiful cookies with ease using the Stainless Steel Cookie Press, Kitchen Baking Set. This set comes with everything you need to create fun cookie shapes and decorate them with lovely icing. It’s a fantastic tool for any home baker, from beginners to pros.
What We Like:
- High Quality: It’s made of strong, food-grade stainless steel, so it’s safe and won’t easily break.
- Ergonomic Design: The handle feels good in your hand, making it easy to squeeze out perfect cookies and icing without a lot of effort.
- Easy to Use: Even if you’re new to baking, this cookie press is simple to figure out. Just fill it, choose a disc or nozzle, and press!
- Easy to Clean: All the parts come apart, so you can wash them with soap and water. Since it’s stainless steel, you don’t have to worry about rust.
- Great Gift Idea: This cookie press makes a wonderful present for holidays, birthdays, or any occasion.
What Could Be Improved:
- Air Release: You need to squeeze gently after filling to push out extra air for the best cookie shapes. This is a small step, but important to remember.
This cookie press is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, making baking fun and decorating simple. You’ll love the variety of shapes and the professional look you can achieve.
4. America’s Test Kitchen Better With Bacon: 20 Bacon-Loaded Recipes
Rating: 9.3/10
Get ready to elevate your cooking with “America’s Test Kitchen Better With Bacon: 20 Bacon-Loaded Recipes.” This cookbook is a game-changer for anyone who believes bacon makes everything better. It’s packed with creative and delicious ways to add that irresistible smoky, salty flavor to your meals. From breakfast to dinner and even desserts, you’ll find recipes that are sure to become family favorites. America’s Test Kitchen is known for its thorough testing, so you can trust these recipes will work. This book is a must-have for bacon lovers.
What We Like:
- Offers a wide variety of bacon-centric recipes.
- Recipes are tested and reliable, ensuring success in the kitchen.
- Provides clear instructions suitable for all skill levels.
- Inspires creative uses for bacon beyond traditional dishes.
What Could Be Improved:
- Could benefit from more visual aids or step-by-step photos for complex recipes.
- Some recipes might require specific ingredients that aren’t always readily available.
This cookbook truly delivers on its promise to make meals better with bacon. It’s an excellent resource for anyone looking to add a little extra deliciousness to their cooking.
5. OXO Softworks 20-Piece Cookie Press Set
Rating: 9.5/10
Baking homemade cookies just got a whole lot easier and more fun with the OXO Softworks 20-Piece Cookie Press Set. This set has everything you need to create beautiful, perfectly shaped cookies every time. It’s a fantastic tool for bakers of all skill levels, from beginners to experienced pros.
What We Like:
- The set includes one cookie press, a handy storage case, and 18 different cookie disks for lots of creative shapes.
- You get a measured portion for each lever press, which means your cookies will be consistently sized.
- A non-slip base keeps the press steady while you work, preventing it from sliding around your counter.
- The comfortable contour lever design makes it easy to press the dough, even for long baking sessions.
- The clear cylinder lets you see exactly how much dough is left, so you know when it’s time to refill.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the disks offer variety, some users might wish for even more unique or seasonal shapes.
- The plastic construction, while durable, might not feel as premium as a metal cookie press to some.
This OXO cookie press set makes cookie decorating a breeze. It’s a reliable and user-friendly option for anyone who loves to bake.
Your Guide to the America’s Test Kitchen Cookie Press
Making beautiful, uniform cookies is easier than ever with a cookie press. America’s Test Kitchen has put its stamp of approval on some great options. This guide will help you choose the best cookie press for your kitchen.
1. Key Features to Look For
Easy to Use Design
A good cookie press should be comfortable to hold and operate. Look for a press with a trigger or handle that is easy to squeeze. This makes it simple to press out the dough evenly.
Durable Construction
You want a cookie press that will last. Metal presses are generally more durable than plastic ones. They can handle the pressure needed to push out thick cookie dough.
Variety of Discs
Cookie presses come with different shaped discs. These discs create various cookie designs, like stars, flowers, and shells. Having a good selection of discs lets you make many different kinds of cookies.
Easy to Clean
Baking can get messy. A cookie press that comes apart easily will be much simpler to clean. Many parts are dishwasher safe, which is a big plus.
2. Important Materials
Stainless Steel
Many high-quality cookie presses are made from stainless steel. This material is strong, won’t rust, and is easy to clean. It also feels sturdy in your hand.
Plastic
Some cookie presses use plastic for parts like the handle or the discs. While plastic can be lighter, it might not be as durable as metal. Look for BPA-free plastic for safety.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Weight and Balance
A press that feels well-balanced in your hand is easier to control. A press that is too light might feel flimsy. A press that is too heavy could be tiring to use.
Seal Quality
The seal between the dough cylinder and the disc is important. A good seal prevents dough from leaking out the sides. This ensures clean, well-formed cookies.
Disc Fit
The discs should fit snugly into the press. If the discs are loose, the dough might not press out evenly. A good fit helps create consistent cookie shapes.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Perfect for Holiday Baking
Cookie presses are fantastic for making holiday treats. You can create beautiful cookies for Christmas, Easter, or any celebration. The repeatable shapes make decorating a breeze.
Great for Beginners
If you’re new to baking, a cookie press can help you make impressive-looking cookies without a lot of effort. It takes the guesswork out of shaping.
Consistent Results
Cookie presses are excellent for making batches of cookies that all look the same. This uniformity is great for gifts or cookie exchanges.
Creative Cookie Designs
With various discs, you can get creative. Try different dough flavors and colors to make your cookies stand out.
When choosing an America’s Test Kitchen recommended cookie press, think about how you’ll use it most. A sturdy metal press with plenty of discs will offer the best experience for most home bakers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What makes a cookie press “America’s Test Kitchen approved”?
A: America’s Test Kitchen tests kitchen tools thoroughly. Approval means the product met their high standards for performance, durability, and ease of use.
Q: Can I use any cookie dough with a cookie press?
A: No, you need a specific cookie press dough. It should be firm but pliable. Very soft or sticky doughs won’t work well.
Q: How do I prevent dough from sticking to the press?
A: Make sure your dough recipe is correct. Chill the dough slightly if it’s too soft. Also, lightly grease the inside of the cylinder if needed, but not too much.
Q: What is the best way to clean a cookie press?
A: Most parts can be washed with warm, soapy water. Check if your model is dishwasher safe. Make sure all parts are completely dry before storing.
Q: How many discs usually come with a cookie press?
A: The number of discs can vary. Many good presses come with 10-20 different designs.
Q: Are plastic cookie presses bad?
A: Not necessarily. Plastic presses can be lighter and more affordable. However, metal presses are generally more durable and last longer.
Q: Can I make different types of cookies, like shortbread, with a press?
A: Yes, shortbread doughs are often ideal for cookie presses because they hold their shape well.
Q: How do I get the best cookie shapes?
A: Press the dough onto a cool, ungreased baking sheet. Apply steady, even pressure. Lift the press straight up after each cookie.
Q: What should I do if the dough doesn’t come out of the disc?
A: This often means the dough is too dry or too cold. Try adding a tiny bit more butter or liquid to your dough, or let it warm up slightly.
Q: Where can I find America’s Test Kitchen recommended cookie presses?
A: You can often find them at kitchen supply stores, department stores, and online retailers. Look for specific product recommendations on the America’s Test Kitchen website.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Larry Fish, the mind behind MyGrinderGuide.com.. With a passion for all things kitchen appliances, I created this blog to share my hands-on experience and expert knowledge. Whether it’s helping you choose the right tools for your culinary adventures or offering tips to make your kitchen more efficient, I’m here to guide you. My goal is to make your time in the kitchen not only easier but also enjoyable! Welcome to my world of kitchen mastery!