Ever wondered how America’s Test Kitchen gets those perfectly round cookies, every single time? It’s not magic, it’s a tool! But with so many cookie scoops out there, how do you pick the one that’s going to make your baking dreams come true and not just a sticky mess?
Choosing the right cookie scoop can feel like a big decision. You want cookies that look amazing, bake evenly, and don’t take forever to make. But sometimes, scoops are too small, too big, or just plain awkward to use. We’ve all been there, wrestling with dough and ending up with lopsided treats.
In this post, we’ll dive deep into what makes a great cookie scoop, according to the experts at America’s Test Kitchen. You’ll learn what features to look for, discover their top recommendations, and understand why these little tools make such a big difference in your kitchen. Get ready to bake like a pro!
Our Top 5 Cookie Scoop America’S Test Kitchen Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
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Desserts Illustrated: The Ultimate Guide to All Things Sweet 600+ Recipes | 8.8/10 | Check Price |
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HOMURE H Cookie Scoop Set | 9.5/10 | Check Price |
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JUNADAEL J Cookie Scoop Set | 9.3/10 | Check Price |
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Ice Cream Scoop | 9.2/10 | Check Price |
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Fayomir Cookie Scoop Set – Small/1 Tbsp | 9.2/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Cookie Scoop America’S Test Kitchen Detailed Reviews
1. Desserts Illustrated: The Ultimate Guide to All Things Sweet 600+ Recipes
Rating: 9.2/10
Calling all dessert lovers! Get ready to dive into a world of deliciousness with “Desserts Illustrated: The Ultimate Guide to All Things Sweet 600+ Recipes.” This amazing cookbook is packed with over 600 sweet treats that will make your taste buds sing. Whether you’re a beginner baker or a seasoned pro, this book has something for everyone. From simple cookies to fancy cakes, it covers all your dessert dreams.
What We Like:
- An incredible variety of over 600 recipes, offering endless dessert possibilities.
- The “Illustrated” in the title means beautiful pictures that show you exactly what your dessert should look like.
- It covers a wide range of desserts, from quick and easy snacks to impressive showstoppers.
- The instructions are usually clear and easy to follow, making baking more fun and less stressful.
- It’s a fantastic resource for anyone who loves to bake or wants to learn new dessert skills.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some advanced recipes might require special ingredients or equipment that not everyone has.
- With so many recipes, it can be a little overwhelming to choose what to make first!
- The sheer size of the book could make it a bit bulky to store or carry around.
This cookbook is a sweet dream come true for anyone who enjoys a good dessert. You’ll be whipping up amazing treats in no time!
2. HOMURE H Cookie Scoop Set
Rating: 8.9/10
The HOMURE H Cookie Scoop Set is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, making baking and scooping a breeze. This set comes with three different-sized scoops, perfect for all your dessert and appetizer needs.
What We Like:
- The set includes three versatile sizes: #60 (1 Tbsp), #40 (2 Tbsp), and #20 (3 Tbsp). This means you have the right scoop for small cookies, larger muffins, or even perfectly portioned ice cream.
- These scoops are built to last. They are made from sturdy 18/8 stainless steel, which is food-grade and won’t rust or corrode.
- The thick rubber handles offer a comfortable, non-slip grip. This makes scooping dough easy and reduces strain on your hands and wrists.
- The spring-loaded trigger system works smoothly. It releases the dough cleanly and effortlessly, saving you time and frustration.
- Beyond cookies, these scoops are great for cupcakes, muffins, ice cream, melon balls, and even meatballs. They are truly multipurpose.
- Cleaning is a snap. They are stain-resistant and can be washed by hand or placed in the dishwasher.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the handles are comfortable, some users might prefer a slightly longer handle for larger batches of baking.
- The #20 scoop, while large, might be a bit too big for very delicate cookies where precise small portions are key.
Overall, the HOMURE H Cookie Scoop Set offers excellent quality and versatility for bakers of all levels. It’s a reliable and practical tool that makes creating delicious treats much more enjoyable.
3. JUNADAEL J Cookie Scoop Set
Rating: 8.7/10
Get ready to bake up a storm with the JUNADAEL J Cookie Scoop Set! This fantastic set comes with three different-sized scoops, perfect for all your baking needs. You’ll find a #60 scoop that holds 1 tablespoon, a #40 scoop for 2 tablespoons, and a #20 scoop for 3 tablespoons. These scoops have comfortable, non-slip rubber grip handles in stylish red, black, and mint colors. They are made from strong, rust-proof 18/8 stainless steel, so they’ll last a long time. The easy trigger release makes getting perfectly portioned dough out a breeze, saving your wrists and hands. Plus, they are super easy to clean and dishwasher safe!
What We Like:
- Three different sizes (#60, #40, #20) let you make cookies of various sizes.
- The 18/8 stainless steel is strong and won’t rust.
- Comfortable, non-slip rubber grip handles make scooping easy.
- The trigger release system works smoothly to release dough.
- They are versatile and can be used for more than just cookies – think ice cream, meatballs, and cupcakes!
- Cleaning is simple, and they are safe for the dishwasher.
What Could Be Improved:
- The largest scoop (#20) might be a bit big for very small cookies.
- The trigger mechanism, while efficient, might require a little practice for perfect, even releases every time.
This JUNADAEL J Cookie Scoop Set offers great value and makes baking more enjoyable. It’s a must-have for any home baker looking for consistency and ease.
4. Ice Cream Scoop
Rating: 8.7/10
Meet your new favorite kitchen tool: the Ice Cream Scoop, 18/8 Stainless Steel Cookie Scoop! This handy gadget is designed to make baking and dessert-making a breeze. It’s perfect for scooping perfectly sized cookies, ice cream, and even meatballs. Made with high-quality stainless steel and a comfy grip, it makes kitchen tasks easier and more enjoyable.
What We Like:
- It’s super versatile! Use it for ice cream, cookies, meatballs, melon balls, and more.
- The #40 size is just right, holding about 2 tablespoons or 30 ml.
- It’s made from strong 18/8 stainless steel, so it’s safe and won’t rust.
- The soft, non-slip rubber handle feels great in your hand and is easy to grip.
- The trigger release works smoothly, letting your food slide out neatly.
- It saves you time and effort in the kitchen.
- It’s easy to clean, even in the dishwasher.
- It makes a fantastic gift for anyone who loves to bake or make desserts.
What Could Be Improved:
- The trigger mechanism might feel a little stiff to some users initially.
- While it’s great for most tasks, it might not be the best choice for very sticky doughs without a little extra help.
This ice cream and cookie scoop is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. Its durability and ease of use make it a reliable helper for all your scooping needs.
5. Fayomir Cookie Scoop Set – Small/1 Tbsp
Rating: 9.1/10
The Fayomir Cookie Scoop Set offers three handy sizes for all your baking and dessert needs. This set includes small, medium, and large scoops, perfect for cookies, muffins, ice cream, and more. Made from strong stainless steel, these scoops are built to last and make scooping a breeze.
What We Like:
- Comes with three different sizes: 1 Tbsp, 2 Tbsp, and 3 Tbsp scoops.
- Works great for cookies, cupcakes, muffins, and even ice cream.
- Made of high-quality 18/8 stainless steel, so they won’t break or bend easily.
- The trigger system is easy to use, releasing dough smoothly.
- Safe for food and won’t add any bad stuff to your treats.
- Dishwasher safe, making cleanup super simple.
- Resists stains and won’t rust.
What Could Be Improved:
- While great for most things, the largest scoop might be a bit big for very small cookies.
This Fayomir Cookie Scoop Set is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. You’ll find yourself reaching for these reliable scoops for countless delicious creations.
The Essential Guide to Choosing Your Perfect Cookie Scoop
Are you tired of uneven cookies? Do you dream of perfectly portioned dough every time? A cookie scoop is your secret weapon for baking success! Let’s dive into what makes a great cookie scoop, especially one that earns the stamp of approval from America’s Test Kitchen.
Why a Cookie Scoop Matters
A cookie scoop isn’t just a fancy spoon. It’s a tool that ensures consistent cookie size. This means all your cookies bake evenly. No more burnt edges on some and doughy centers on others. It also makes your cookie sheets look neat and professional.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for a cookie scoop, keep these important features in mind:
- Size Matters: Cookie scoops come in different sizes. A common size is the 1.5-tablespoon scoop, which is great for most standard cookies. America’s Test Kitchen often recommends a medium-sized scoop for versatility. Look for scoops labeled with tablespoon measurements. Some come in sets, offering various sizes for different recipes.
- Comfortable Handle: You’ll be scooping dough many times. A comfortable, ergonomic handle makes the job easy. It should feel good in your hand and not slip, even if your hands are a little greasy.
- Easy Release Mechanism: The best scoops have a simple trigger or lever that neatly releases the dough. This prevents dough from sticking inside the scoop. A smooth, well-designed release mechanism is crucial.
- Durability: You want a scoop that lasts. Look for sturdy construction that won’t bend or break, even with thicker doughs.
Important Materials
The material of your cookie scoop affects its performance and how long it lasts.
- Stainless Steel: This is the gold standard. Stainless steel is strong, rust-resistant, and easy to clean. It doesn’t react with food, so your dough won’t pick up any strange flavors. Many top-rated scoops use high-quality stainless steel.
- Plastic: While some plastic scoops exist, they are generally less durable than stainless steel. They can also become brittle over time or crack. For serious bakers, stainless steel is the better choice.
- Handle Materials: Handles can be made of plastic, silicone, or metal. Silicone grips offer extra comfort and prevent slipping.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make a cookie scoop great or not so great.
- Smooth Interior: The inside of the scoop should be smooth. This helps the dough slide out easily. Rough edges or seams can cause dough to stick.
- Sturdy Construction: A scoop that feels solid and well-built will perform better. Test the trigger mechanism. It should move smoothly without sticking.
- Sharp Edge (for some designs): Some scoops have a slightly sharper edge on the release mechanism. This helps cut through sticky dough cleanly.
- Poorly Designed Release: If the release mechanism is stiff or doesn’t fully scrape the scoop, dough will be left behind. This makes for uneven cookies and frustrating cleanup.
- Cheap Materials: Using thin metal or brittle plastic will lead to a scoop that breaks or bends easily.
User Experience and Use Cases
Using a cookie scoop is simple and makes baking more enjoyable.
- Scooping Dough: Just press the scoop into your cookie dough. Twist it slightly to get a full scoop. Then, press the release lever over your baking sheet.
- Beyond Cookies: Cookie scoops aren’t just for cookies! You can use them for:
- Portioning muffin batter
- Scooping ice cream
- Making melon balls
- Portioning mashed potatoes or other soft sides
- Creating uniform meatballs
A good cookie scoop, like those recommended by America’s Test Kitchen, becomes a reliable kitchen tool. It saves you time and effort. It ensures your baked goods look as good as they taste. Investing in a quality scoop is a smart move for any home baker.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cookie Scoops
Q: What is the best size cookie scoop?
A: The best size depends on your recipe. A 1.5-tablespoon scoop is a good all-around choice for most cookies. America’s Test Kitchen often suggests this size.
Q: Are cookie scoops dishwasher safe?
A: Most stainless steel cookie scoops are dishwasher safe. Always check the product instructions to be sure.
Q: How do I clean a cookie scoop that’s sticky?
A: You can soak it in warm, soapy water. For stubborn dough, a gentle scrub brush can help. Make sure it’s completely dry before storing.
Q: Can I use a cookie scoop for thick doughs?
A: Yes, a sturdy stainless steel scoop can handle thick cookie doughs. Just be sure the mechanism is robust.
Q: What makes a cookie scoop “good quality”?
A: Good quality means it’s made of durable stainless steel, has a comfortable handle, and a smooth, effective release mechanism.
Q: Does the color of the handle matter?
A: The color itself doesn’t affect quality. However, some handle materials, like silicone, offer better grip and comfort regardless of color.
Q: How many cookie scoops do I need?
A: One good medium-sized scoop is a great start. Many bakers find a set with multiple sizes useful for different recipes.
Q: Will a cookie scoop help my cookies bake evenly?
A: Yes! Uniform size is key to even baking. All your cookies will cook at the same rate.
Q: Can I use a cookie scoop for savory dishes?
A: Absolutely! They are great for portioning things like meatballs, rice balls, or even mashed potatoes.
Q: Where can I find cookie scoops recommended by America’s Test Kitchen?
A: You can often find their recommendations on their website or in their product reviews. Look for brands they have tested and approved.
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.