10 Kitchen Essentials to Pass Through the Generations

There are some kitchen tools and tabletop finds you know you’ll have for at least a few years, and then there are others that are intended to span generations of cooks. For the later, these essentials are timeless in their design and style, and they are always of the highest quality. From a classic stand mixer that will help you make countless cakes and cookies, to the sturdiest of cast iron skillets that you’ll be proud to give to your grandchildren one day, we’ve rounded up some the most special heirloom-quality pieces that’ll last in your family for a very (very) long time.

1. KitchenAid® Design Series Stand Mixer, 5-QT

Besides being synonymous with baking, a KitchenAid stand mixer is known for its superior design (meaning: you’ll have it for a very long time). This 5-quart option comes with a glass mixing bowl and three attachments: a flat beater, a wire whip, and a dough hook. Outside of your favorite classic baked goods, a stand mixer can also help you make dozens of other delicious things if you invest in a few other attachments, including fresh pasta and applesauce.

2. All-Clad Copper Core 10-Piece Cookware Set

With a copper core interior and stainless steel exterior, this 10-piece cookware set from All-Clad is the jewel of any kitchen. It’s designed to heat up quickly, maintain an even temperature, and it’s also a breeze to clean. The set comes with two fry pans, to saucepans, a sauté pan, and a stockpot, so you basically have everything you need to cook up a storm.

3. Wüsthof Gourmet 18-Piece Knife Block Set

German-based company, Wüsthof, has been making knives since 1814, and once you try dicing, mincing, and slicing with one, it’s easy to understand why they’re so popular. This 18-piece set comes with all the knives you could ever need, including a chef’s knife, a pairing knife, and six steak knives. The knives are made with high-carbon stainless steel, and they’re rust and stain resistant. The set also comes with this good-looking hardwood block for storage (which would look great with this Boos chopping block — just saying!).

4. Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron Skillets, Set of 3

A great cast iron pan won’t just make your food better, it’ll make your life better. No, really! There’s so much you can do with a cast iron skillet: sear meat, bake cornbread, and roast a chicken — just to name a few. And because they’re so durable, this 3-piece skillet set from Lodge will last for years (and years, and years).

5. Le Creuset Signature Enameled Cast Iron Round Dutch Oven

It doesn’t get much more iconic when it comes to kitchen cookware than Le Creuset’s signature Dutch oven. When Chunk Williams discovered Le Creuset in France, it only came in one color: flame, a redish-orange color. But today it comes in a dozen of different options (lucky, you). So many braises, stews, soups, and more await you and your family with this essential!

6. Ruffoni Historia Hammered Copper 7-Piece Cookware Set with Acorn Knobs

Is there anything more beautiful than hammered copper cookware? This stunning 7-piece set rom Ruffoni is made in Italy, and includes brass handles and acorn knobs. Besides just being excellent cookware, it’ll look great hanging out in your kitchen — just remember to polish your pans.

7. Laguiole 28-Piece Flatware Set, Horn

This heirloom-worthy 28-piece flatware set is made in the France’s Laguiole region. Each piece is crafted from six different varieties of animal horns, including ram and deer horn. This makes everything totally unique and special! The implements are made with high-quality stainless steel are made to last many lifetimes.

8. Pillivuyt Coupe Porcelain Dinnerware Collection

The porcelain dinnerware collection from Pillivuyt is made in France, and is equal in its beauty and durability. It’s something you’ll feel good about using on a regular basis, but it’s also easy to gussy up for a special occasion. And because it’s so classic, it’ll go with any linens or colorful tabletop pieces.

9. Marble Rolling Pin

Baking a batch of holiday cookies is one of the easiest ways to get your kids involved in the kitchen, and with this corona marble rolling pin, it’s also a great way to make a lifelong memory. It’s something your kids will remember fondly when it’s finally in their kitchen, many years from now.

10. Deshoulieres Dhara Red Platter

What better thing to pass down to your kids and grandkids than something that is meant for family gatherings? This elegant porcelain platter is inspired by Persian motifs found in a 17th-century poetry manuscript, which makes it feel extra special. Its warm design adds a touch of color while remaining timeless in its style.