Upgrading Kitchen Mixers
Okay Susie Homemaker, it's time to toss out that cheap kitchen mixer and upgrade to the big leagues. You're not just baking chocolate chip cookies anymore. You're a serious baker making seven layer cakes, chocolate chip peanut butter cookie dough brownie concoctions, and other really delicious, fattening foods. Let's take a look at your options so you can become the ultimate baker!
Features To Look For
Before you become tempted to just buy the most expensive mixer, here are some features that your upgrade should have. Be aware that a better quality stand mixer will most likely take up more space and weigh more because of larger bowl sizes and heavy duty motors, but it's a small price to pay for cooking glory.
* '''Speed Demon''':
Hand mixers typically have three to five speeds. Look for ones that have at least five so you can do some heavy duty work. Just watch out for splatter when you're on high settings.
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Stand mixers range from five to twelve speeds, but if you're upgrading, you'll want at least eight or nine. Higher speeds equal better mixing.
* '''More Power''': 200 watts is for amateurs; 600-1000 watts is more on par with the professionals. You'll need more power for mixing thicker products. Good quality mixers will boast that their motors are quieter than the competition. (Please note that hand mixers use a much lower wattage than stand mixers.)
* '''Bowl Size''': A stand mixer's power is measured by how much it can hold. Look for volumes of at least 10-20 cups or around 7 quarts.
* '''Planetary Action''': The best stand mixers will use planetary action, which means the beater rotates around its own axis and orbits around the bowl at the same time.
* '''Attach It!''': Casual bakers can get away with not having attachments, but this is no excuse for you! The mixer should come with a flat beater/paddle, a dough hook, and a wire whip.
* '''Brand''': There are a lot of great brands on the market, but
Viking.
Upgraded Hand Mixers
Upgraded Stand Mixers
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