Buying Guide for the Best Kitchenaid Mixers
Choosing the right stand mixer, like those from KitchenAid, can make a big difference in your kitchen experience. These mixers are versatile tools that help with everything from baking bread to whipping cream. When picking a mixer, it's important to think about how often you'll use it, what kinds of recipes you enjoy, and how much space you have in your kitchen. Understanding the key features will help you find a mixer that fits your needs and makes your cooking and baking easier and more enjoyable.Bowl CapacityBowl capacity refers to how much the mixer’s bowl can hold, usually measured in quarts or liters. This is important because it determines how much dough or batter you can make at one time. Smaller bowls (around 3-4 quarts) are great for occasional bakers or small households, while medium bowls (4.5-5 quarts) suit most families and regular baking. Larger bowls (6 quarts or more) are best for big batches or if you often bake for groups. Think about the size of your typical recipes and how many people you usually cook for to choose the right bowl size.
Motor PowerMotor power is usually measured in watts or by the type of motor, and it affects how well the mixer can handle tough jobs like kneading bread dough. Lower-powered mixers are fine for light tasks like whipping cream or mixing cake batter, while higher-powered mixers are better for heavy doughs and frequent use. If you plan to make bread or thick cookie dough often, look for a mixer with a stronger motor. For lighter, occasional tasks, a less powerful motor will be sufficient.
Mixing ActionMixing action describes how the beaters move inside the bowl. Most high-quality stand mixers use a planetary mixing action, where the beater moves one way while the drive shaft moves the other, ensuring thorough mixing. This is important for even results and less scraping of the bowl. If you want consistent, well-mixed doughs and batters, look for a mixer with planetary mixing action. If you only need basic mixing, a simpler action may be enough.
Speed SettingsSpeed settings control how fast the mixer operates. More speed options give you better control over mixing, from slow stirring to fast whipping. Basic mixers may have 3-5 speeds, while more advanced ones offer 10 or more. If you like to try different recipes and need flexibility, more speed settings are helpful. For simple tasks, fewer speeds may be all you need.
Attachments and AccessoriesAttachments and accessories include things like dough hooks, whisks, and paddles, as well as optional add-ons like pasta makers or food grinders. These expand what your mixer can do. If you want a versatile tool for many kitchen tasks, look for a mixer with a variety of attachments or the ability to add more later. If you only plan to mix and whip, basic attachments will be enough.
Size and WeightThe size and weight of the mixer affect where you can store it and how easy it is to move. Heavier mixers are more stable during use, especially for tough doughs, but can be harder to lift and store. Lighter mixers are easier to move but may shift on the counter during use. Consider your kitchen space and whether you’ll keep the mixer on the counter or need to store it away.
Ease of CleaningEase of cleaning refers to how simple it is to wash the bowl, attachments, and the mixer itself. Some parts are dishwasher safe, while others need to be washed by hand. If you want to save time, look for mixers with dishwasher-safe parts and smooth surfaces that are easy to wipe down. If you don’t mind hand washing, this may be less important.