Coffee Station + Gift Guide: The Chef

The following post is sponsored by Wayfair.
As always, all opinions are my own. For more information see my disclosures here.

This post is really two posts in one, so you should grab a cup of coffee or tea and get comfy. First, let’s talk about one of my favorite places in my apartment – my coffee station! I recently posted on Instagram that I got rid of my Keurig and ordered an actual coffee pot. I couldn’t be happier. I have a programmable coffee maker that wakes me up with it’s delicious scent. It’s a great motivator for getting me out of bed. 

My new machine is the Cuisinart Brew Central 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker (Model DCC-1200), which you can find online at Wayfair. My in-laws have had this model for years and they gave rave reviews, so I knew I had to order it. Bryan and I absolutely love it! It’s really easy to use and program. I hated how my Keurig machine held water inside and no matter how much I cleaned it, the coffee always tasted a bit off. Coffee from my new Cuisinart coffee maker tastes delicious every time. 

Since we upgraded to a new coffee maker, I wanted to make this a special place in my kitchen. I made coffee for an entire week and grew tired of searching through cabinets for the items to make and prepare my daily cup of Joe. 

1. Tray: You’ll need a tray or cutting board to hold all your coffee station essentials. I love a more rustic wooden tray, but there’s so many options out there for you to choose from. 

2. Coffee: Right now we’re brewing Dunkin Donuts’ original blend. It’s pretty good, but not Bryan’s favorite so we’ll be trying something else when this runs out. Maybe something from Starbucks? I haven’t been able to find a great container for the coffee grinds, so comment below and let me know what you keep your coffee in. 

3. Spoons: For stirring milk and sugar, obviously. I like keeping spoons on the counter, so I don’t have to reach for them in my utensil drawer. Plus, I like being able to switch out the mug I keep them in!

4. Mugs:  I keep my two favorite mugs out on the tray so I can easily grab them in the morning. 

5. Filters: Another coffee making necessity. 

6. Sugar: I add 1-2 teaspoons of sugar to my coffee. If you don’t use sugar, you can certainly add a cute little container for Stevia or the sweetener of your choice. 

Since the holidays are here, I also wanted to share a gift guide that is perfect for the chef in your life. 

1. Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Round French Oven: Apparently a French/Dutch oven is a must have in every kitchen, but I actually don’t have one (shh!). Eventually I’d like to purchase this version from Le Creuset. I love this brand so much and it’s been around for a long time. This French oven is great for simmering, marinating, braising or browning. You can take it from the stove to the table and even to the fridge! 

2. Ninja Professional Blender: We received this blender as an engagement present and it works so well. It’s 6-Blade Technology is perfect for ice crushing, blending and pureeing. I use it for smoothies, milkshakes, salsa and soups. 

3. All Clad 5-Piece Measuring Cup Set: Who doesn’t need measuring cups? I’ve purchased so many terrible plastic sets over the years, so my next set will certainly be this stainless steel version. Anyone who loves to cook or bake will appreciate this. 

4. ThirstyStone Marble Salt and Pepper Set: How cute are these? At under $25, you can’t pass this set up! It is made of solid white and black marble and would look gorgeous in any kitchen. 

5. BoosBlock Maple Cutting Board: I know a few people who own this cutting board and they give rave reviews. It holds up great over time (as long as you take care of it). Check out my post about how to clean your wooden cutting boards. 

6. All Clad Lasagna Pan Gift Set: I wish I had someone to give this to. Seriously. It’s perfect for any one who loves to cook. This set comes with two mitts, a lasagna pan, and “Essentials of Classic Italian Cooking” by Marcella Hazan. I love purchasing or putting together my own gift sets because it makes the present feel more complete. 

7. Le Creuset Revolution 6-Piece Utensil Set: I love this set because you can simply remove the tops of the utensil and throw them in the dishwasher. Plus, I love anything white and wooden. Such a great combo! 

8. Shun 3-Piece Starter Cutlery Set: We love our Shun Kaji knife and hope to get more soon. This Shun Classic 3 piece starter kit is perfect for any friend or family member looking to upgrade their cutlery. 

9. Boska Holland Dutch Design Slate Cheese Tray: We have a similar tray that we got from our wedding and we absolutely love it. It’s great for parties or just a cheese and wine night with the hubby. 

10. Le Creuset Stackable Ramekins Set of 4: Can you tell I really like Le Creuset?! These ramekins are great for dips, condiments, and even ice cream.