With clever cookware from Swiss brand Zyliss and smart appliances from Morphy Richards and Haier, these kitchen gifts are guaranteed to make your Christmas merry, modern, and delicious
There’s something special about the big Christmas gifts – the ones that sit proudly under the tree and promise to make life a little easier, a little cosier, or just a bit more fun.
Whether it’s a gleaming new coffee machine, a pan that makes Sunday brunches shine, or an air fryer that takes the stress out of cooking, these are the presents that keep giving long after the decorations come down.
I have worked with Swiss brand Zyliss and Morphy Richards to see what they have to offer this festive season.
Zyliss
I’ve been using knives from the Utility range by Zyliss for everyday prep – and they’ve genuinely impressed.
The moment you pick one up, you notice how comfortable the ergonomically-designed handle feels in your hand, whether you’re slicing herbs or trimming veg.
The blade is amazingly sharp, cutting through produce with ease thanks to high-quality stainless steel.
What’s more: each knife comes with a safety cover/blade guard that fits snugly for secure storage.
In short: a joy to use, reliably sharp, and thoughtfully designed – exactly the kind of kitchen tool that makes everyday cooking feel a little more elevated.
From the moment you pick up the pans, you notice the sleek design – clean lines, smart handles, and a finish that feels modern yet functional. What’s more: they perform beautifully.
For the pans, the non‑stick coating is fantastic – built with Swiss‑engineered technology (such as the Alpine Crystals & triple‑layer non‑stick systems) they ensure that food releases easily and cleaning is a breeze.
The base and body are designed for serious versatility: forged aluminium for fast, even heat; induction‑compatible bases; and oven safe in many models.
Comfort and usability count too: handles feel good in the hand, the pans feel balanced rather than bulky, and the external appearance gives that “premium kitchen tool” feel without going overboard.
Haier
Next I tried the Haier I-Master Series 5 Home Barista – costing £119.
I absolutely love how this machine brings so much versatility to the countertop. Whether I’m craving a bold espresso, a silky hot chocolate or a brewing of loose‑leaf tea, the Barista handles it all – no capsules required.
The design is just gorgeous: encased in dark metal with modern LED touch controls that feel ultra‑sleek and premium.
And the sleekness doesn’t stop at the look – the compact footprint means it doesn’t dominate the counter, and the non‑stick jug inside makes cleaning effortless.
As well as the I-Master Series 5 Air Fryer – for £199.
I’ve been absolutely loving the look and feel of this air fryer – right from the first glance.
The touch and button controls feel satisfying and intuitive: a sleek, illuminated display with a responsive dial gives you that premium, gadgety vibe.
The design itself is modern and minimalist, with clean lines and a matte‑black finish that sits easily on the countertop without feeling bulky.
The model offers 9 cooking functions – air‑fry, bake, roast, slow cook, etc.
And with its generous 7L capacity and a viewing window that lets you keep an eye on things without interrupting cooking, it blends form and function beautifully.
Morphy Richards
From Morphy I tried their Air Fryer, Toaster, Steamer & Iron and Coffee Machine.
Firstly the Digital Dual Basket Air Fryer (7L) – for £149.99.
I’ve been using the Digital Dual Basket Air Fryer and honestly, it’s a standout in the “handy, spacious, lovely” category.
The 7.2 litre dual‑basket design means you can cook two things at once – ideal for busy evenings or when you want one side for mains and the other for sides or snacks.
What I love most is how thoughtfully designed it is: the touch‑interface feels modern and smooth, the viewing window is a smart little detail (so you can peek without opening the drawer), and the non‑stick coated drawers make clean‑up far less of a chore.
Next – the Traditional Compact Espresso Machine – costing £169.99 – £179.99.
Imagine waking on a chilly December morning, a frosty window and the smell of pine outside – and then the warm hum of this espresso machine bringing your kitchen to life.
This little gem is sleek, stylish, and surprisingly versatile.
With its stainless‑steel finish and compact footprint, it slips neatly into the festive buzz of the kitchen without dominating the scene.
But it’s more than just looks. The 15‑bar pump pressure means you’re getting a genuinely good espresso shot, whether you’re going for a solo morning cup or sharing with someone special.
And the steam wand? Perfect for frothing milk to create a velvet‑smooth latte or cappuccino – ideal when you want a cozy café‑style moment at home.
From rich espresso to a frothy festive choc‑latte, this machine makes every drink feel like a little celebration.
Now – the Cassini 4-Slice Toaster – for £79.99
I’m absolutely delighted with this toaster. The sleek black finish (in the “Outer Space” hue) sits beautifully on the countertop – modern, polished and just the right size to feel premium without overwhelming the space.
The hexagonal design of the Cassini range gives it that stylish edge you notice every time you walk past.
What really sells it though is how effortlessly it fits into real life:
Handy 4‑slice capacity – ideal for family breakfasts or when friends pop by.
Variable browning controls & high lift function – so you can customize each slice exactly how you like it and safely retrieve smaller items without burning fingertips.
Removable crumb tray & illuminated controls – makes it easy to keep clean and the glowing buttons add a little morning cheer.
And lastly, something different – their Turbosteam 2 in 1 Garment Steamer & Iron – for £49.99
Imagine waking up on a crisp winter morning, the fairy lights still glowing, and this sleek little gadget in your hand. It’s compact, clever and cheerful – a perfect blend of steam‑iron power and grooming ease. With a heat‑up time of just 25 seconds, it’s ready before you are.
Whether you’re smoothing out the Christmas party dress or steaming the curtains after holiday guests have left, this machine handles both with ease: vertical steaming for hanging garments and horizontal ironing for linens or bedding.
The detachable 200 ml water tank, auto‑shut‑off feature and lint brush make the rituals of garment‑care feel… dare I say it festive rather than a chore.
As the lights twinkle and the scent of pine fills the air, there’s nothing quite like unwrapping a gift that sparks joy in the kitchen.
From sleek Zyliss knives and pans to versatile Morphy Richards gadgets, each present brings a little magic to everyday moments – whether it’s a perfectly frothed latte, a crisp air‑fried snack, or a beautifully toasted breakfast.
This Christmas, it’s the thoughtful, practical, and fun gifts that turn cooking, baking, and brewing into little celebrations.
So go on, give (or keep!) something that makes the season brighter, tastier, and a whole lot more festive.
