I must admit that I have a weakness for gadgets and countertop appliances, and I'm sure most of us have a few specialty appliances gathering dust in the closet or garage. Here are some of the most useful and highest-rated appliances, many of which I use frequently or daily.
1. Breville Ikon Toaster
This sleek brushed stainless toaster has an LCD display, self centering slots, defrost, bagel, and thick slice settings, browning control dial, and more. This is available in 2- or 4-slice models.
2. Krups Coffee and Espresso Maker
This combination coffee brewing and espresso machine makes 10 cups of coffee or up to 2 cups of espresso. Features include a programmable clock timer, stop and serve capability, and a frothing attachment.3. Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker
This machine does it all! There's no need to pre-freeze a container, because this ice cream maker does the freezing. Just add your ingredients and set the timer; the machine does the rest.4. Cuisinart Slow Cooker
An attractive 6.5-quart slow cooker with a unique rectangular base with oval removable crockery pot. The exterior is brushed stainless steel, with a retractable cord and nonslip rubber feet. This slow cooker also includes a cooking rack for ramekins or other bakeware, and a 70-recipe cookbook.5. Cuisinart Stainless Steel Electric Skillet
This electric skillet has a large nonstick cooking surface, brushed stainless steel finish, a glass lid, and it's fully immersible and dishwasher safe.6. Stand Mixer - Kitchenaid
This mixer is a joy to use and an essential for the serious baker. It comes in several sizes and colors, including chrome and copper; separate attachments include food grinder, pasta roller and juice extracter. This particular model is an Ultra Power 4.5 quart 300 watt white mixer. Use the search function to find other models and colors.7. Breville Panini Maker
This is a great little appliance that I use almost daily. The toast height is adjustable, and it can toast up to 4 sandwiches at a time, it has 1500 watts of power, and the flat cooking plates are non-stick and easy to clean. You can even fry eggs on it. One of my favorite features is the fact that you can stand it on end and wrap the cord around the bottom cord holder to free up counter space. The design is thoughtful and practical, and the shiny stainless looks great on the countertop.8. Bread Machine - Zojirushi Home Bakery
Most bread machines do a fine job, but the Zojirushi is rated one of the best. This machine makes a horizontal 2-pound loaf, and it can bake cakes and quick breads. You'll also find some accessories for the Home Bakery.9. Ronco Showtime Rotisserie
You've probably seen this appliance on TV, and it really is as good as it looks. It's especially good for whole chickens and roasts, but with a basket and skewers, you can use it for just about any food, including vegetables.10. Cuisinart 14-Cup 750 Watt Food Processor
This excellent processor makes shredding, slicing and chopping a breeze. It comes with several discs, a chopping blade, and dough blade. Cuisinart offers lots of accessories which can be ordered separately.