Over the past year, I've tested many gadgets. Most were a lot of fun to play with for a short time, but others earned a coveted spot in my permanent kitchen arsenal. My top eight picks range from stocking stuffers to more sizable appliances that would look good wrapped and waiting under the tree.

Check out my picks in the slideshow »

About the author: Resident yeast whisperer and bread baking columnist Donna Currie also has a serious gadget habit. When her father-in-law heard about this column, he upgraded the nickname for her kitchen from "gadget world" to "gadget heaven." You can find her on her blog, Cookistry or follow her on Twitter at @dbcurrie.