Dreaming of effortlessly whipped cream, flawless bread dough, and delicious cake batters? With the right stand mixer, it’s all within reach! Choosing the best stand mixer can seem overwhelming, though, with so many models, features, and price points. Whether you’re a beginner baker or a pro pastry chef, this guide breaks down the best options, so you can find the perfect mixer for your culinary needs.
What is a Stand Mixer, and Why Do You Need One?
A stand mixer is a powerful kitchen appliance that makes mixing, kneading, and whipping a breeze. With a powerful motor and sturdy attachments, it does all the hard work of beating ingredients together, leaving you free to enjoy the process—and the results! Whether you’re making bread, cookies, pasta, or even ice cream, a stand mixer can save you time and deliver a level of consistency that’s tough to achieve by hand.
Why Invest in a Stand Mixer? (Spoiler: It’s a Game-Changer)
Using a stand mixer elevates your cooking and baking by:
- Saving Time and Effort: No more exhausting hand-mixing or guessing at the right texture.
- Ensuring Consistency: The mixing bowl, attachments, and motor all work together to blend ingredients evenly.
- Expanding Recipe Possibilities: Many stand mixers come with or can use multiple attachments, from pasta makers to meat grinders, meaning more versatility in the kitchen.
Top Stand Mixers to Buy in 2024
- KitchenAid Artisan Series 5-Quart Stand Mixer
- Pros: Classic design, multiple color options, wide range of compatible attachments.
- Cons: Heavier and takes up more counter space.
This iconic mixer is a favorite among professionals and home bakers alike. Known for its durability and versatility, the KitchenAid Artisan is compatible with various attachments, allowing you to expand its functionality. However, it’s a bit heavy and can be quite an investment. But if you’re looking for a mixer that will last, it’s worth it.
- Cuisinart SM-50 5.5-Quart Stand Mixer
- Pros: Powerful motor, slightly more affordable, includes essential attachments.
- Cons: Doesn’t have as many attachment options as other models.
The Cuisinart SM-50 is a great alternative to the KitchenAid, offering a similar mixing power and a clean, modern design. It’s a little more budget-friendly and comes with a stainless steel bowl, dough hook, whisk, and paddle, covering most baking needs. However, it doesn’t offer as many additional attachments, which may limit versatility.
- Hamilton Beach Electric Stand Mixer
- Pros: Budget-friendly, compact size, good for light baking.
- Cons: Not as powerful; may struggle with heavy doughs.
For those just starting in baking or who don’t need an industrial-level machine, the Hamilton Beach Electric Stand Mixer is a fantastic entry-level choice. It’s compact and lightweight, ideal for smaller kitchens, and is easy on the budget. However, if you plan to tackle heavy bread dough regularly, this model might fall short.
Features to Look for in the Best Stand Mixer
Choosing the right stand mixer means considering a few key factors. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Bowl Size
- A 4- to 5-quart bowl is generally sufficient for most home bakers. If you frequently bake in bulk, a 6-quart or larger bowl might be ideal.
- Power and Motor Strength
- If you plan on making doughs, look for a mixer with at least 300 watts of power. This ensures that the machine can handle tougher, stickier ingredients without burning out.
- Speeds and Control
- Different recipes call for different mixing speeds. A good stand mixer should offer at least six speeds, allowing you to go from gentle stirring to powerful whipping.
- Attachments and Accessories
- Many stand mixers come with a set of basic attachments, such as a flat beater, dough hook, and wire whisk. However, some models offer additional attachments, like pasta makers and ice cream churners, which can significantly expand the appliance’s functionality.
Best Times to Use Your Stand Mixer
Whenever you’re making baked goods, a stand mixer is your best friend. Whipping cream, beating egg whites, or making dough are tasks that are tedious by hand but a breeze with a mixer. Try using a stand mixer for:
- Bread dough, pizza dough, and bagels
- Cakes, cupcakes, and frosting
- Mashed potatoes, meringues, and whipped cream
Stand Mixer Showdown: Which One is Right for You?
Let’s compare our top picks in a quick showdown to see which stand mixer suits different needs.
| Feature | KitchenAid Artisan | Cuisinart SM-50 | Hamilton Beach |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best For | Versatile use | Mid-level budget | Budget-conscious users |
| Motor Power | 325 watts | 500 watts | 300 watts |
| Bowl Capacity | 5 quarts | 5.5 quarts | 4 quarts |
| Attachments Available | Wide range | Basic set | Limited |
| Price | $$$ | $$ | $ |
Each model shines for different types of bakers. The KitchenAid Artisan is a long-term investment for avid bakers, while the Hamilton Beach is ideal for occasional users looking to keep costs down. The Cuisinart SM-50 falls somewhere in the middle, providing power without overwhelming your budget.
Where to Buy the Best Stand Mixers?
You can find most stand mixers online through major retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and Best Buy. For better deals, check during big sale events like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, or Prime Day. However, always read reviews and check for warranty details when buying online to ensure you get the best value for your money.
Are There Downsides to Stand Mixers?
Every appliance has its flaws, and stand mixers are no exception. Here are a few potential drawbacks:
- Size & Weight: Stand mixers are hefty, especially the high-powered models. Make sure you have a dedicated spot on your counter because moving them frequently isn’t fun.
- Price: Quality mixers can be pricey. While they’re a fantastic investment for frequent bakers, if you’re only baking occasionally, it might not feel worth the cost.
- Noise: Mixing dough or heavy batters can get noisy, which might not be ideal if you have a sleeping baby or need a quiet environment.
Conclusion
Which Stand Mixer is the Best Choice?
Ultimately, the best stand mixer is the one that meets your unique needs and fits your budget. If you’re looking for long-term durability and versatility, go for the KitchenAid Artisan. If budget is a concern but you want solid performance, the Cuisinart SM-50 is a wonderful middle ground. And for those just starting out, the Hamilton Beach Stand Mixer offers great value without breaking the bank.