1) Parchment Paper - It will be your best friend 2) Mexican or a good quality vanilla extract- your feelings aren't artificial neither are your baking ingredients. Homesense or TJ MAXX is a great spot to pick up real vanilla at a fraction of the price and a big bottle will last you a long time. It's worth the investment 3) BUTTER .... mmmmm.....Butter - I use unsalted as you generally add salt to your recipe anyway 4) Pampered Chef stackable cooling racks - They are the best sturdiest cooling racks I have come across. If you are like me and live in a small condo in the city then you know everything must go up not out for it to fit! 5) Tomboy Tools pink hammer - this is my favourite baking tool, works well to crush nuts (ya know almonds, walnuts etc...), candy canes (now that the season is here) just put whatever you are crushing into a freezer bag and gently crush as to not put holes in the bag. OK those are my favourite tools at the moment. Happy Holiday Baking Season everyone ... let the games and baking begin!!