Helping Mom in the Kitchen: The Best Kitchen Countertop Appliances to Save Time and Energy
As a mom, I know firsthand how crazy life can get, especially when everyone’s schedules are pulling you in different directions. Between school drop offs, sports practices, after school activities and (of course) work, there’s barely time to catch your breath.
But even on the most chaotic days, I still want my family to eat delicious homemade meals. That’s where my kitchen countertop appliances come in!
Over the years I’ve found a few must-haves that have become my secret weapons in the kitchen. Whether I’m rushing to get a healthy breakfast on the table, packing school lunches or prepping for a weekend dinner party, these appliances make everything so much easier and faster!
Here’s my top countertop appliances every busy mom should have in her kitchen.
1. The Food Processor: My Kitchen Superhero
When it comes to versatility, food processors are my number one kitchen appliance. A good food processor can do just about anything — chop veggies, shred cheese, make dough or blend up homemade sauces in minutes. It’s especially useful when prepping after school snacks. I love using it to whip up a batch of homemade hummus or a quick salsa for dipping.
For dinner parties, my food processor takes the stress out of making fresh pestos, creamy dressings and even pie dough. Gone are the days of endless chopping by hand — now I can throw everything in, press a button and let it do the heavy lifting!
Pro Tip: Get a food processor with multiple blades and attachments. It’s a game changer for a busy mom who needs to save time.
2. Air Fryer: Crispy, Quick & Healthier
Oh, the air fryer. If you don’t have one yet, trust me, you’re missing out! An air fryer has completely changed the way I cook for my family. We love chicken tenders, fries and crispy veggies but I used to feel guilty about deep frying foods too often. The air fryer gives us that same crispy crunch without all the extra oil.
I can throw in a batch of homemade chicken nuggets or sweet potato fries and set the timer. By the time I’m done helping with homework, dinner is ready.
And for busy mornings? The air fryer is perfect for reheating leftover pancakes and they taste as fresh as the day they were made. It’s a busy mom’s best friend making meal prep easier.
Mom Hack: Use silicone baking cups in your air fryer to make quick and easy breakfast egg muffins. They’re protein packed and perfect for busy school mornings!
3. Blender: Not Just for Smoothies
I’ll admit it, when I first got my blender I thought it was just for smoothies and shakes. But over the years, I’ve learned a high speed blender can be so much more. I use mine almost daily to make creamy soups, blend pancake batter and even mix up my favorite marinades.
One of my favorite time savers is making smoothie packs ahead of time. I’ll chop up fruits and veggies, put them in freezer bags and when the morning rush hits I can just grab a bag, toss it in the blender with some yogurt or juice and we’re out the door with a healthy breakfast in hand.
You can also use the blender to make creamy homemade ice cream, so it’s a total kitchen superhero.
Blender Bonus: You can even use this great tool to whip up a quick batch of homemade nut butter. It’s healthier and cheaper than store bought.
4. Ice Cream Maker: Sweet Treats Anytime
I have to admit, our ice cream maker has been a game-changer in our home. It’s such a joy to whip up creamy, homemade ice cream, sorbet, or frozen yogurt whenever the craving hits. The best part? I can customize the flavors and experiment with different ingredients, ensuring everyone in the family gets their favorite treat.
On those hot summer days, this appliance is a lifesaver, providing a refreshing dessert after a long day. Plus, making ice cream at home allows me to control the ingredients, making it a healthier option compared to store-bought versions.
Sweet Tip: I love involving the kids in the ice cream-making process by letting them choose and add their favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips, fruit, or nuts. It’s a fun family activity that results in delicious homemade ice cream.
5. Instant Pot: The One Pot Wonder
If you’ve heard of the Instant Pot craze, I’m here to tell you it’s real! This multi-cooker can pressure cook, slow cook, steam, sauté and more all in one pot.
On days when I’m juggling a million things at once, this appliance is a lifesaver. I can throw in some chicken, veggies and spices and set it to cook and let it do the work while I tackle other tasks.
My kids love mac and cheese and with the Instant Pot I can make it from scratch in under 20 minutes. It’s also great for batch cooking soups, stews or even yogurt. And for those crazy nights when you forgot to thaw the meat? No problem! The Instant Pot can handle frozen ingredients with ease.
Pro Tip: Batch cook a big pot of chili or soup on Sunday and use it throughout the week for quick lunches or dinners.
6. Stand Mixer: Your Baking Best Friend
I love to bake but with three kids finding time to bake from scratch can be tough. That’s where stand mixers come to the rescue. These versatile appliances can do many tasks from kneading dough to whipping up fluffy cakes making them a must have for both hobbyists and professionals.
My favorite use? Making a big batch of cookie dough and freezing it into individual portions. That way when my kids want a treat I can pop a few in the oven and have freshly baked cookies in minutes.
Mom Hack: Use your stand mixer to shred cooked chicken quick—it’s perfect for tacos, salads or chicken sandwiches.
7. Electric Kettle: More Than Just Boiling Water
This might sound simple but my favorite electric kettle has become a staple in my kitchen. It boils water in a flash which is a lifesaver when I’m trying to make a quick cup of tea, instant oatmeal or even speed up the process of boiling pasta.
On busy mornings I use my my favorite electric kettle to preheat water for our French press coffee or to make a quick batch of instant noodles when my kids are craving something warm after school. It’s a small appliance that packs a big punch when it comes to convenience.
Counter Space Savers
In a busy kitchen every inch of counter space is gold. That’s why you need to choose appliances that are compact, efficient and multifunctional. For example, a compact toaster oven or air fryer can do multiple tasks like baking, roasting and reheating so you don’t have to clutter your counter with multiple appliances.
A stand mixer with a small footprint like the KitchenAid Classic Plus is perfect for heavy duty mixing without taking up too much space.
If you’re a smoothie lover, a personal blender like the NutriBullet is perfect for making quick and healthy drinks without taking up much space.
If you use a microwave, consider a compact design like the Panasonic Compact Microwave that fits on the counter or in a corner.
And don’t forget about vertical storage solutions—appliances like the Instant Pot can be stored upright and free up even more counter space.
By choosing space saving appliances, you can have a more efficient and organized kitchen and make cooking easier and more fun.
Choosing the Appliances for Your Kitchen
With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to pick the right appliances for your kitchen. Start by thinking about your cooking habits and what type of food you cook most often. If you love to bake, a stand mixer is a must-have. If smoothies are your go to, a personal blender is a great investment.
Think about the size of your kitchen and how much counter space you have. Compact appliances are perfect for small kitchens and larger ones for bigger spaces. Research different brands and models, read reviews and compare features to find the best one for you and your budget.
Think about the features you need most. For example, if you’re looking for a blender, do you need multiple speed settings or a built in timer? Lastly, check the warranty and customer support from the manufacturer. A good warranty and good customer support will give you peace of mind and protect your investment.
By choosing the right appliances, you can have a kitchen that’s efficient, functional and fun to use.
Cleaning and Maintenance Tips
Cleaning and maintaining your appliances is key to them lasting and performing well. Clean your appliances after each use to prevent food residue and stains from building up. Use a soft cloth and mild soap and avoid harsh cleaners that can damage finishes.
For tougher stains and grime, deep clean your appliances regularly. A mix of baking soda and water can make a paste that works wonders on stubborn spots. Apply it, let it sit for 30 minutes then wipe clean with a damp cloth.
Check your appliances regularly for wear and tear like loose screws or damaged cords and repair them ASAP to ensure safe use. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and maintenance to use the right techniques and products.
Consider storing your cleaning supplies in a caddy or container so they’re within arm’s reach. By following these tips, you can keep your appliances in top shape and get consistent results for years to come.
Conclusion: One Appliance at a Time
There’s nothing better than having a kitchen full of tools that make life easier. As a mom of many, I juggle a lot of responsibilities and these countertop appliances are my lifeline. They save me time, reduce stress and feed my family with healthy home cooked meals.
Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting to get into the kitchen, investing in the right appliances can really change the way you cook. After all we deserve a little help in the kitchen—anything that gives us more family time is worth it!
So, what’s your favorite kitchen gadget? I’d love to hear what other moms are using to make their kitchen routines smoother and more enjoyable!