Cookie cutters. Yep, I know—they probably don’t sound like an essential bit of galley kit, but those who are regulars to this "Galley Equipment" blog will already be expecting the unexpected.
In Fact, Ten years ago, if you’d told me I’d be dedicated a blog to how useful cookie cutters were for life on a boat, I would have probably laughed and added them to the list of “things I don’t have space for onboard.” But here I am, fully converted. These little shapes of joy have earned their place in my galley, and not just for making delicious biscuits. It turns out that having cookie cutters around has led me to use them in ways I never imagined. Sometimes, they’ve even solved problems I didn’t know I had!
Over time, I’ve learned that cookie cutters are like secret galley ninjas. They don’t take up much room, they’re super versatile, and they make perfecting certain recipes a breeze on board (They are also super handy to have when crafting too!)
Plus, let’s be honest—when you’re living in tight quarters, small things that spark a little happiness for both chef and crew, are worth their weight in gold.
So, how exactly do I use cookie cutters onboard? Here are a few of my favourite (and possibly unexpected) ways to put them to work.
1. Fancy Fruit and Veggies
Here’s a simple truth: when food looks good, it tastes better. Thanks to my smaller range of cookie cutters, even the most basic fruit or veggie platter can be transformed into something pretty. I’ve used them to cut cucumber slices into stars, watermelon chunks into hearts and papaya into crescents. It looks impressive, is lovingly crafted and is packed full of good nutrition which ticks
This trick is a game-changer for picky eaters too and a great way to get them interested in reaching out to add more fruits and vegetables on their plates.
2. Sandwiches With a Twist
Square sandwiches are great and all, but why not take it up a notch? Cookie cutters are fantastic for creating heart-shaped toast, round toasted sandwiches or any other fun shapes you fancy. They’re especially useful for kids, but to be honest—no one’s ever complained about their lunch being too cute onboard!
And don’t worry about wasting the scraps. They’re brilliant for making croutons or breadcrumbs—just pop them in the oven to toast, or whizz them up with a handheld blender and you’re good to go. Waste not, want not!
3. Perfect Burger Patties
Making veggie burgers or falafel onboard? Cookie cutters make it easy to shape them into neat, uniform patties, which always makes cooking (and eating) feel more satisfying. Just press your mixture into the cutter, lift it away, and boom—instant galley perfection.
This also works for pressing rice into sushi-style mounds or creating mini desserts like individual cheesecakes. I can’t tell you how handy this little hack has been on more than one occasion and ow many compliments it has gotten me.
4. Cookie Cutters Stencils for That Finishing Touch
Here’s a fun little hack I discovered by accident: cookie cutters make excellent stencils. Great for tat impromptu birthday cake at anchor situation. Dust some cocoa or powdered sugar over a dessert using the shape as your guide, or sprinkle paprika or smoked salt onto a dip for a professional-looking finish. It’s a small detail, but it can make a big difference.
5. Ravioli and Dumpling Press
Okay, this one’s a bit more ambitious, but on calmer days, I love making homemade Gyoza, I found them very time-consuming rolling out each circle of dough individually. So now I roll out the dough and use the cookie cutters for perfect dumpling-size circles ready to fill with my cabbage, mushroom onion, carrot ginger and garlic-infused filling. My mouth is watering at the mere thought of a gyoza fest!
6. The Perfect Taco
I love to make my own corn tacos or small tortillas. One of my favourite uses for the large round cookie cutter I have is for shaping my corn tortillas or tacos. Rolling out the dough and then cutting it into perfect circles with a large cookie cutter ensures that every tortilla is the same size and cooks evenly. It’s a simple trick, but it makes taco nights onboard feel a bit more polished especially if we are having guests around or I am cooking for the crew of a superyacht.
7. Not Just for Food
Who says cookie cutters are limited to the galley? When we lived on land I used to love attending pottery classes. It is something that I miss from my land life and the idea of a potter´s wheel whilst sailing the high seas is a utopian dream. Recently, I found some air-drying clay and not having the correct tools I set about raiding my galley draws to see what I could use to craft. Of course, when my eyes fell upon the cookie cutters it brought a smile to my creative side and I set to work.
It’s amazing how a tiny tool can inspire so much creativity.
Why They’re a Must-Have in My Galley
They’re light, and versatile, whether I’m using them to add a touch of flair to meals or experimenting with DIY projects, they’ve proven themselves time and time again.
So, if you don’t already have a set in your galley, I highly recommend giving them a try. You might be surprised by how often you reach for them—and how much ease they bring to life onboard.
Have your own creative use for cookie cutters? I’d love to hear it! Drop me a comment or tag me on social media—I’m always looking for new ideas to share.
Wishing you smooth seas and heart-shaped sandwiches.
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