Cookie Cutters

Best Cookie Cutters in the UK: Where to Buy, What to Choose, and How to Bake Perfect Shapes

Why the right cookie cutter makes a difference

Picking the right cookie cutter is like choosing the right paintbrush for a masterpiece: the tool shapes the result. Whether you’re baking for a birthday, crafting decorations for a holiday table, or teaching kids how to roll dough, the cutter you use affects edge definition, ease of release, and durability. A flimsy plastic cutter can warp and produce fuzzy edges, while a sharp stainless steel cutter gives crisp, professional shapes. If you want cookies that look as good as they taste, investing a little time in choosing the right cutter pays off every batch.

Popular cookie shapes and why bakers love them

Hearts, stars, gingerbread people, and seasonal motifs are staples for a reason: they’re instantly recognisable and versatile. Heart cutters, for example, aren’t only for Valentine’s Day; they’re perfect for layered shortbread, sandwich cookies, and even mini savory tarts. Gingerbread and Christmas sets work great for decorating marzipan or fondant as well as dough. If you bake frequently, consider a rosette or garnish mold set to create bakery-style accents. Simple shapes also cut down decorating time, making them ideal for busy bakers.

Materials matter: stainless steel vs plastic vs silicone

When choosing cutters, material is a primary decision. Stainless steel is the go-to for clean, sharp edges and long life. It holds company with pastry chefs because it cuts smoothly and can be re-sharpened by filing the edge if needed. Plastic cutters are lightweight, budget-friendly, and safe for kids, but they can flex and produce uneven edges. Silicone or rubber-backed cutters and molds are excellent for intricate shapes and release, especially when working with delicate doughs or soft fondant. Think of materials as tools in a toolbox—each one has a purpose depending on the job in hand.

Top places to buy cookie cutters in the UK

Nordic Nest

Nordic Nest is a strong choice if you’re hunting for designer and Scandinavian-inspired bakeware. They often stock brands like Lékué, known for clever silicone and molded designs. A popular item is the Lékué heart cutter that measures roughly 9.4 by 9.9 inches—large enough for bold centerpiece cookies or for shaping layered desserts. Nordic Nest also lists stainless steel sets from makers such as Nordwik and De Buyer, which are excellent for those who want professional-grade metal cutters and baking molds.

Lakeland

Lakeland is a high-street favourite for bakers across the UK. They offer an extensive selection of cookie cutters in various shapes, sizes, and materials, including stainless steel, plastic, and silicone. You’ll find everything from single large cutters to themed multi-packs and specialty rosette irons for decorative work. If you want a reliable all-rounder shop with consistent stock and seasonal ranges, Lakeland is a safe bet.

John Lewis & Partners

John Lewis carries curated kitchenware lines and tends to stock quality brands and designer collaborations. Expect to find elegant stainless-steel cutters and multi-piece sets that make good gifts or long-term additions to your kitchen. Their customer reviews and product descriptions help you compare choices before you buy, which is handy when investing in higher-end cutters.

Dunelm

Dunelm is ideal for budget-conscious bakers who still want variety. They regularly carry seasonal packs, cookie cutter tins, and themed sets suitable for family baking. From classic cutters to novelty shapes, Dunelm’s range is accessible and practical for everyday baking or party prep.

Hobbycraft

If you’re into decorating and crafting as well as baking, Hobbycraft has a wide selection of cutters and decorating accessories. Their stock often includes detailed cutters for fondant and sugarcraft, ideal if you decorate elaborately or make cookies for events. Supplies like rosette irons and garnish molds are also commonly available for crafters who crossover between baking and edible art.

Amazon UK and Etsy

Amazon is the quickest source for a huge variety of choices—everything from De Buyer stainless steel wavy punch 9-pack sets to novelty cookie cutters and brand-name items like Plate It garnish molds. Etsy is unbeatable for bespoke or custom cutters, including personalized name cutters and 3D printed shapes. If you’re looking for something unique or tailored to a specific event, Etsy is where makers turn ideas into reality.

Robert Dyas and The Range

Robert Dyas and The Range both supply practical kitchen gadgets and seasonal baking goods. These retailers are great for last-minute purchases or when you want both value and selection in one shop. You’ll often find handy items like herb cutters—Zone Denmark style singles that measure about 7.4 inches in length—or compact cookie dough cutters ideal for small kitchens.

Featured cutter types and sizes to consider

Pay attention to cutter size and purpose. Large heart cutters—like a Lékué heart at roughly 9.4 by 9.9 inches—are perfect for showstopper cookies or pastry tops. Mid-size cutters around 5.5 to 6 inches (think De Buyer heart molds at about 5.5 inches diameter) work well for sandwich cookies and party servings. Small novelty cutters are great for garnish and themed trays. Multi-piece sets, such as a wavy punch 9-pack, let you create uniform edges and decorative borders. Always match cutter size to the intended use: table-friendly sizes for parties, and larger ones if you plan to fill or stack cookies.

Professional and specialty cutters: where to look

If you bake at a semi-professional level or want bakery-quality tools, look for De Buyer and similar European brands that supply pastry shops. These makers produce heavy-gauge stainless-steel molds and durable cutting tools that retain their shape after repeated use. Specialist kitchen shops and selected online retailers sell De Buyer baking molds and rosette irons suitable for intensive use. For intricate shapes and custom sizes, order from specialist metalworkers or commission 3D-printed cutters from artisan sellers on platforms like Etsy.

Caring for your cookie cutters: cleaning and storage tips

Proper care extends the life of your cutters. Stainless steel cutters should be hand-washed and dried promptly to avoid water spots and potential corrosion. If you own a wavy punched 9-pack or delicate rosette iron, avoid abrasive scouring pads that can dull edges. Plastic cutters can often go in the top shelf of a dishwasher, but check the manufacturer’s guidance. Flat storage in a drawer or a shallow box keeps shapes from bending; hanging sets on a pegboard works well for frequently used tools. For silicone molds, a quick rinse and air dry is usually sufficient, and storing them flat avoids warping.

Baking tips to get clean shapes every time

Getting sharp cookie edges can be surprisingly simple with a few tricks. Chill your dough before cutting—about 15 to 30 minutes in the fridge helps dough keep its shape. Roll the dough between parchment paper to the desired thickness, usually 1/4 inch for most cookies, and use a firm downward press when cutting. For intricate shapes, dip cutters in flour between cuts to prevent sticking; for a cleaner look, dip in confectioners’ sugar if you plan to decorate. After cutting, transfer shapes on a thin spatula or slide the whole parchment sheet onto a baking tray to avoid distortion.

Budget vs premium: choosing cutters that last

If you’re baking occasionally, inexpensive plastic or boxed sets can be great value. For bakers who make cookies multiple times a month, spend a little more on stainless steel or branded molds: a De Buyer mold or Lékué piece is the kitchen equivalent of investing in a quality pan. Think long-term—sharp stainless cutters and solid silicone molds can last for years and continue to give better-looking results than low-cost alternatives. It’s like buying shoes: a comfortable, well-made pair lasts longer and performs better over time.

Creative uses beyond cookies

Cookie cutters are surprisingly versatile. Use round cutters as biscuit rings for mini quiches, cut sandwiches for children’s lunchboxes, or shape layered appetizers using metal molds. Garnish molds and rosette irons, often sold alongside cookie cutters, are fantastic for creating vegetable or fruit shapes for canapé trays. Even cookie cutters designed for gingerbread or holiday themes can be used to stamp fondant, marzipan, and even thin pastry for decorative pie tops.

Conclusion

Choosing the right cookie cutter comes down to material, size, and how often you plan to bake. UK retailers from Nordic Nest to Lakeland, John Lewis to specialist suppliers like De Buyer stock a wide range of options, while online marketplaces give access to custom and boutique makers. Whether you’re after a large heart mold for a statement cookie or a precise stainless steel set for everyday baking, a well-chosen cutter is a small investment that elevates your baking. With a little care and a few simple baking tricks, you’ll get crisp, beautiful shapes that make every batch feel like a celebration.