Last updated: August 27, 2024 at 08:20 PM
Best Stand Mixer Summary
KitchenAid Stand Mixers
- KitchenAid Professional: Often preferred for bread-making due to its high-torque DC motor, better than the standard models.
- KitchenAid ProLine 7 quart: Considered KitchenAid's highest-torque offering, great for medium and high hydration bread doughs, but avoid kneading above speed #2.
- KitchenAid 5 quart: Reliable for bread making, better for light to medium bread, cakes, pastries, not ideal for low hydration work.
Pros
- Reliable for baking various items
- Long-lasting - Some users have had theirs for 25+ years
- Can handle tough dough like bagel dough
- Compatible with various attachments
Cons
- Struggles with low hydration doughs - Not suitable for very low hydration dough like NY bagels.
- Motor limitations - Some struggle with kneading tough dough effectively.
- Gears - Some models may have plastic gears which may be less durable.
Ankarsrum Stand Mixer
- Ankarsrum: Considered the only one worth considering by some users for bread-making.
Pros
- Excellent for bread
- Durable
- Great for large batches of dough
Cons
- May have a learning curve
- Potentially pricey
Bosch Stand Mixer
- Bosch: Highly recommended for bread and bagel dough, withstands tough use.
Pros
- Durable for heavy use
- Handles thick doughs well
Cons
- KitchenAid replacements needed
- Struggles with smaller recipes
Spiral Mixers
- Sunmix 10kg Spiral Mixer: Efficiently kneads dough faster than planetary mixers without heating up.
- Kenwood Chef 1000Watt motor: Powerful motor for handling tough dough.
Kenwood Stand Mixer
- Kenwood Cooking Chef: Great for tough doughs, risotto, and more with its induction plate.
General Tips
- Maintain mixer periodically for longevity.
- Adjust attachments for better performance.
- Avoid dishwasher for mixer parts to prevent oxidation.
This summary highlights that while KitchenAid mixers are popular, especially for general baking, for serious bread-making, users often recommend Ankarsrum or Bosch mixers. It's crucial to consider factors like dough type, hydration level, and intended use when selecting the best stand mixer for specific baking needs.
