10 Essentials for a Cottagecore Kitchen
The cottagecore aesthetic is more than just a style; it’s a lifestyle that embraces simplicity, sustainability, and a deep connection to nature. One of the most charming aspects of this trend is the kitchen—a space that feels like the heart of the home. Whether you’re whipping up a batch of homemade jam or baking a fresh loaf of bread, a cottagecore kitchen is the perfect setting for these cozy, nostalgic activities. Here’s a guide to the essentials that will help you create your own idyllic kitchen space.
Before We Get Started
A cozy, charming kitchen is at the heart of every cottagecore home. Whether you're baking fresh bread, brewing a pot of tea, or simply enjoying the beauty of handmade pieces, the right essentials make all the difference. I’ve rounded up my favorite cottagecore kitchen must-haves to bring warmth and vintage charm to your space. Click on the pictures to shop and create the dreamy kitchen you’ve always wanted!
1. Cast Iron Skillets and Wooden Spoons
In a cottagecore kitchen, cast iron skillets and wooden spoons are more than just tools—they are essential symbols of a rustic, homely lifestyle that celebrates simplicity, warmth, and a connection to nature. These items fit perfectly within the aesthetic of a cottagecore kitchen, where the charm lies in handmade, vintage-inspired, and sustainable elements.
Cast Iron Skillets:
A cast iron skillet brings an undeniable sense of timelessness to a cottagecore kitchen. The heavy, durable material and its ability to retain heat make it perfect for slow-cooking, baking, and crafting comfort foods like stews, cornbread, and hearty breakfasts. The deep, earthy look of cast iron also adds to the cozy, lived-in vibe of a cottagecore kitchen. Over time, a cast iron skillet only gets better, developing a natural non-stick seasoning with use, which is a process that ties the cook more deeply to the rhythm of their kitchen. It’s the kind of item that tells a story, growing older and wiser with every meal prepared. Its connection to the past—the fact that people have been using cast iron for centuries—adds a sense of continuity and tradition to the space.
Wooden Spoons:
Wooden spoons are the perfect companion to cast iron skillets in a cottagecore kitchen. These rustic, natural tools evoke a sense of nostalgia and old-world charm, making them the go-to choice for stirring, mixing, and serving meals. Their smooth, handcrafted look is a reminder of simpler times when tools were made with care and meant to last. Wooden spoons also create a harmonious sensory experience: their warmth in hand, the sound of stirring in a pot, and the gentle tap against a cast-iron skillet. Like cast iron, they carry a sense of history, as many families have passed down wooden utensils through generations.
Both items embody sustainability, a core principle of the cottagecore ethos, where the beauty of reusing, repurposing, and caring for tools is celebrated. In a world where fast, disposable products dominate, cast iron skillets and wooden spoons stand as symbols of resilience, simplicity, and an intentional, mindful way of living. They encourage a slower, more thoughtful approach to cooking, fostering a deeper connection to food and the environment.
2. Tea Towels and Aprons
In a cottagecore kitchen, tea towels and aprons are more than just practical items—they’re little touches of magic that bring the whole vibe together. Trust me, you won’t find a true cottagecore kitchen without these two essentials. They’re like the quiet heroes of the space, always ready to help, but also quietly adding to the overall charm.
Tea Towels:
Tea towels are such a cozy little necessity. Picture this: You’ve just pulled a batch of cookies or fresh bread out of the oven, and there’s something so satisfying about having a soft, floral or gingham-patterned tea towel within arm’s reach to gently place them on. They're perfect for drying dishes, wiping down countertops, and even as a way to carry freshly picked herbs or veggies from the garden. There’s a sort of comforting nostalgia to the way they feel in your hands, whether you're folding them neatly or letting them drape over the oven handle. Plus, they often come in beautiful prints—think wildflowers, chickens, or simple stripes—that make your kitchen feel even more inviting. Every time you reach for one, it’s like you’re stepping into a quieter, simpler world where everything is just a little bit more intentional.
Apron:
And then there’s the apron. Oh, the apron. A good apron is like a warm hug while you bake your grandmother’s secret recipe or whip up a slow-cooked stew. It’s part of the ritual—slipping it on as you start to cook, almost like you’re stepping into your role as caretaker of the kitchen. Aprons in a cottagecore kitchen are often made of soft, natural fabrics like linen or cotton, and they’re usually adorned with delicate floral prints or a worn-in, homespun look. It doesn’t just protect your clothes, though—it sets the mood. You can almost feel the connection to generations before you, as aprons were once worn by nearly everyone who spent time in the kitchen, from mothers to grandmothers to farmwives. There’s a certain joy in wearing one, as if you’re honoring that timeless tradition of creating something from scratch.
3. Stand Mixer
I can’t imagine my kitchen without my stand mixer—it’s one of the best gifts I’ve ever received, and I use it every single week. There’s something so comforting about hearing it hum as it kneads dough for fresh bread or whips cream into soft peaks for a homemade dessert. While I love the idea of doing everything by hand, the reality is that having a stand mixer makes baking feel effortless, allowing me to focus on the joy of creating instead of tiring out my arms.
It has been with me through so many seasons of life—helping me bake birthday cakes for my children, mix up batches of cookies for cozy afternoons, and even make homemade butter when I’m feeling extra old-fashioned. It’s not just an appliance; it’s a part of my Cottagecore kitchen, blending practicality with the charm of slow, intentional living.
I truly believe every Cottagecore kitchen needs one. It allows me to make things from scratch without feeling overwhelmed, giving me more time to enjoy the process rather than just the final product. And honestly? Every time I use it, I feel just a little bit more like the homemaker I’ve always dreamed of being.
4. Gas Range
If you have the choice, a gas range is an absolute must-have for a Cottagecore kitchen. I’ve cooked on both electric and gas, and there is no comparison—gas is hands-down the best. The control, the even heat, the way it responds instantly when you adjust the flame—it makes cooking feel so much more natural and intuitive.
There’s something so satisfying about the whoosh of the burner igniting, the soft flicker of the flame as it dances under a cast iron skillet. It makes me feel connected to the process in a way that electric just doesn’t. I can simmer a pot of homemade soup without worrying about uneven heating or searing a perfect crust on a pan of bread without waiting forever for a burner to catch up. And when I need to lower the heat? It happens instantly—no waiting for a coil to cool down while my sauce keeps bubbling away.
Beyond the function, there’s just something romantic about cooking over an open flame. It reminds me of the old ways, when kitchens were the heart of the home, and every meal was made with care. A gas range brings that same timeless charm while making everyday cooking easier, more efficient, and just plain enjoyable. If you’re building your dream Cottagecore kitchen, and you have the option, choose gas—you’ll never go back!
5. Baskets and Wooden Crates
Natural materials like wicker and wood are staples in cottagecore design. Use baskets and wooden crates to store fruits, vegetables, and bread. They’re not only practical but also add a rustic, homey feel to your kitchen. Consider using them to display fresh produce from your garden or local market, making your kitchen both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
6. Open Shelving
Open shelving is a signature feature in a cottagecore kitchen, allowing you to display your vintage finds, jars of preserves, and handmade ceramics. This approach encourages simplicity and intentionality, as you’re more likely to keep only what you need and love. Plus, it gives your kitchen a lived-in, welcoming feel, as everything you need is right at hand.
7. Wooden Chopping Block
A wooden chopping block is an absolute must-have in a Cottagecore kitchen—I truly couldn’t cook without mine! Over the years, I’ve collected a variety of wooden cutting boards in different sizes, and each one serves a purpose. My big, heavy butcher block is my workhorse, perfect for kneading dough, chopping piles of vegetables, or rolling out homemade pastries. I even have cast iron marks on it from making pizza directly on the board—proof of all the love and use it has seen over the years!
My smaller boards are just as handy, whether I’m slicing fresh fruit for breakfast, chopping herbs from the garden, or using one as a serving board for cheese and fresh bread. There’s something so comforting about the feel of a well-worn wooden board, its surface marked with tiny memories of meals past. Unlike plastic, which feels cold and disposable, wood is sturdy, natural, and only gets more beautiful with time. Plus, it’s kinder to my knives, making sure they stay sharp longer.
If you’re looking for a good wooden chopping block, I’ve linked my exact board for you to check out! Just make sure you have a big enough space for it—it’s substantial, but that’s exactly why I love it. A Cottagecore kitchen is all about timeless, well-loved pieces, and this one has certainly earned its place in mine.
8. Floral Patterns
Floral patterns are a hallmark of cottagecore style. Incorporate them through your dishware, curtains, or even wallpaper. Soft, muted tones like blush pink, lavender, and sage green work best, evoking the tranquility of a country garden. Whether you choose vintage floral china or a modern interpretation, these patterns will add a touch of whimsy and romance to your kitchen.
9. Cookbooks and Recipe Cards
There’s something so special about recipe cards in a Cottagecore kitchen. I love sitting down with my collection, flipping through handwritten notes and smudged ink, each card holding a memory of meals shared and recipes perfected. While Pinterest is wonderful for inspiration, there’s nothing quite like having a physical card in my hands—one that I know I’ve made before, loved, and want to make again.
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve saved a recipe online, only to forget if it was actually any good. That’s why writing down my favorites is so important to me. When I take the time to jot down a recipe—maybe with a little note like “Perfect for Sunday mornings” or “Add extra cinnamon next time”—I know it’s worth making again. It saves me from endlessly scrolling, second-guessing, or trying to remember which banana bread recipe was the one that turned out just right.
Recipe cards feel like a connection to the past, too. My grandmother kept hers in a little wooden box, and I love the idea of passing mine down one day, smudges and all. It’s a way of preserving not just meals but moments—birthday cakes, cozy soups, and the perfect pie crust that took me forever to get just right. A Cottagecore kitchen is all about tradition, and to me, nothing keeps that tradition alive like a well-loved stack of recipe cards.
10. Candles and Lanterns
To complete the cozy ambiance, add candles or lanterns to your kitchen. Opt for beeswax candles for a natural, sustainable choice. Their warm glow will make your kitchen feel like a serene retreat, perfect for enjoying a quiet cup of tea or a leisurely meal. Lanterns can be hung from the ceiling or placed on a shelf, adding a touch of rustic elegance to your space.
Shop the Post
Bring the warmth and charm of a cottagecore kitchen to life with these timeless essentials! From handcrafted wooden spoons to delicate floral tea towels, every piece adds a touch of rustic elegance and vintage-inspired beauty to your space. Click on the pictures to shop and create a kitchen that feels like a cozy countryside retreat!
Final Thoughts
Creating a cottagecore kitchen is all about embracing simplicity, sustainability, and the beauty of everyday moments. By incorporating these essentials, you’ll transform your kitchen into a space that feels both nostalgic and welcoming, a place where you can connect with nature and the ones you love.
Whether you're just starting your cottagecore journey or looking to refine your space, remember that the heart of this aesthetic lies in the joy of slow, intentional living.
Brooke
Hello Gorgeous Threads
Related Posts
More You May Like
Welcome
I’m Brooke, a homeschool mom and cottagecore enthusiast dedicated to creating a cozy, sustainable home. My journey into cottagecore is all about savoring life’s simple pleasures, from baking to gardening. I’m passionate about curating unique, sustainable pieces for my shop and sharing tips for a more eco-friendly lifestyle. I can’t wait to share more about the beauty and charm of cottagecore living with you!
Forget takeout—this cast iron pizza recipe is all you need for a perfect homemade pizza. With a thick, fluffy crust and a no-cook marinara sauce made from San Marzano tomatoes and fresh basil, it’s simple, delicious, and packed with flavor.