3 Sharp Ways to Get a Clean Cut in the Kitchen

Neatly cutting brownies can be tricky when half of the crumbs end up sticking to the knife. Next time, try this neat remedy: Instead of using a serrated or chef's knife, use a sturdy plastic knife. It glides easily through even the stickiest brownies, picking up no crumbs.

Cutting butter with a chef's knife can be a slippery proposition. Avoid that by using the sharp edge of a metal bench scraper to cut cold butter into uniform pieces.

Mini marshmallows are an important garnish for hot chocolate, but what if you only have large marshmallows on hand? If you find yourself in this predicament, reach for your kitchen shears. Lightly spray them with nonstick cooking spray to prevent the sticky marshmallows from adhering to the blades.

Like these? See more quick tips at Cook's Illustrated.