7 Little Luxuries Kitchn Editors Recently Bought Themselves

There are lots of big luxuries that I can think of splurging on for my kitchen when the time is right (read: when I have lots and lots of money). For example, I’d love a fancy-schmancy food processor, some pieces from Heath Ceramics, a Le Creuset Dutch oven in every color, a farmhouse sink, and marble countertops — just to name a few.

Of course, while it’s fun to dream about the kinds of things we’ll maybe have in our kitchens one day, it’s almost just as fun to lust after some affordable splurges, or what we call here at Kitchn “little luxuries.” I asked my team for their most recent little kitchen splurges, and here’s our list — nothing is more than $25. They’re not needs, they’re wants — but they make life in the kitchen a whole lot more fun.

“I’ve spent too many minutes of my life trying to fish English muffin halves out of my toaster. (The tops are so little!) Tired of risking my fingers and having to unplug the small appliance in order to stick a knife inside, I bought wooden toaster tongs and I couldn’t be happier about it. I am weirdly obsessed with the packaging they come in, too.” — Lisa Freedman, Lifestyle Director

Buy now: Pinecone Living Bamboo Toaster Tongs, $10

“These cinnamon chips from King Arthur are the secret to my famous blondies. Don’t tell anyone! Actually, tell everyone! They’re so good.” — Faith Durand, Editor-in-Chief

Buy now: King Arthur Flour Cinnamon Sweet Bits, $22 for 20 ounces

“I’m restocking my sprinkle stash for all the holidays, so I ordered a sample of this new-to-me sprinkle brand. The kids and I are making Boo Bark as part of our fall bucket list with it.” — Meghan Splawn, Associate Food Editor

Buy now: Monster Mashup Sprinkle Mix, $9 for 2 ounces

“Also, per Sheela’s suggestion, I ordered some Corona beans from Rancho Gordo. I’m planning to slow cook them and then roast them as ‘snack beans’ for the kids.” —Meghan Splawn, Associate Food Editor

Buy now: Rancho Gordo Royal Corona Beans, $7 for 1 pound

“This water bottle cleaning set is immensely satisfying. ” — Christopher Michel, Food Director

Buy now: OXO Good Grips Water Bottle Cleaning Set, $10

“To celebrate a mini reunion with my college roommates, I ordered a bunch of these copper-colored steel Solo cups as a gag gift. We made a big batch of Moscow Mules and everyone left with a little party favor. ” — Lauren Masur, Staff Writer

Buy now: The Copper Party Cup, $16

“I’ve been meaning to buy a bottle of sherry vinegar ever since Sheela sang its praises back in March, but I finally bit the bullet so I could make Arie’s new favorite salad: the Via Carota one shared by the New York Times. I’m excited to keep trying it out in more recipes!” — Grace Elkus, Deputy Food Director

Buy: Columela Sherry Vinegar Reserva, $20 for two 12-ounce bottles

Have you splurged on any little luxuries recently?