Guide to Selecting the Perfect KitchenAid Mixers
If there’s one compact kitchen gadget that stands as indispensable, it’s undoubtedly the KitchenAid mixers. This iconic culinary companion has firmly entrenched itself in countless households, becoming an essential ally for home cooks.
Since its debut in 1914, it has garnered a devoted following, much like a cherished espresso machine during the holiday season. Despite some modern enhancements, the original models, akin to timeless classics, continue to whisk and knead with unwavering reliability.
Beyond the realm of baking cookies and brownies, these versatile machines can now craft a wide spectrum of delectable and savory culinary creations. KitchenAid offers a wealth of attachments, compelling you to ponder parting ways with some of your archaic kitchen tools to accommodate these innovative add-ons, with perhaps your trusty set of knives being the sole exception. Think homemade ice cream, succulent sausages, and delectable pasta; the possibilities have expanded exponentially with your mixer by your side.
Given the plethora of diverse models available, our comprehensive evaluations have ranked the top five KitchenAid mixer variants. Utilize our insights as a compass to locate the one that seamlessly blends with the aesthetic of your kitchen and meets the demands of your beloved culinary pursuits.
Criteria for Making Your Selection
The Classic model pays homage to the original KitchenAid mixers’ aesthetic, but the company now offers a diverse range of models, all featuring stainless steel bowls. These models come in varying bowl capacities, which indicate how much they can hold. Capacity plays a central role in our product rankings, as many home chefs seek mixers capable of accommodating larger quantities of ingredients.
Some of the pricier models boast features reminiscent of their commercial counterparts. For instance, a lever mechanism simplifies the process of lowering the bowl for inspection and raising it to resume mixing. Alternatively, home chefs may lean towards models with a tilting head, allowing them to check on their mixture without the need to remove or risk spilling the bowl.
Take advantage of our recommendations to gain deeper insights into the top models available. Armed with this knowledge, you’ll discover that selecting the ideal KitchenAid mixer for your 2023 culinary endeavors becomes a straightforward task.
Our Top Recommendation
At the pinnacle of our selections, and the one we deem most suitable for the majority of households, is the Artisan Tilt-Head model. Featuring a robust stainless steel bowl boasting a generous five-quart capacity, it provides ample space for crafting a single batch of cookies or indulgent treats for a sizable gathering. The mixer’s sturdy metal base ensures the bowl stays securely in place during your preparations while facilitating convenient bowl insertion and removal.
The Artisan offers an array of captivating color options that effortlessly complement any kitchen aesthetic. You can opt for vibrant shades such as Tangerine and Empire Red, or opt for a more subdued palette with choices like Lavender and Aqua Sky, all enhanced by sleek silver accents. What truly sets this model apart is its Planetary Mixing Action, ensuring that the beater or attachment you use engages with the bowl at 59 distinct points. This meticulous coverage prevents the formation of unincorporated ingredient clumps, resulting in a consistently smoother mixture. Furthermore, the tilting head action allows the mixer’s head to pivot away from the bowl, affording you an unobstructed view of your mixture—a feature you’re sure to find valuable.
KitchenAid KSM150PSER Artisan Tilt-Head Stand Mixer with Pouring Shield, 5-Quart, Empire Red
- Built to take it all on with the durable and built-to-last metal construction, and 59 touchpoints around the mixer bowl for great mixing results.
- 5 Quart Stainless Steel Bowl with comfortable handle for small or large batches, to mix up 9 dozen cookies* in a single batch. Dishwasher safe. *Using the flat beater; 28g dough each.
- Built to take it all on with the durable and built-to-last metal construction, and 59 touchpoints around the mixer bowl for great mixing results.
- 5 Quart Stainless Steel Bowl with comfortable handle for small or large batches, to mix up 9 dozen cookies* in a single batch. Dishwasher safe. *Using the flat beater; 28g dough each.
- Easily add ingredients with the tilt-head design, because you'll have better access to the bowl - lock the head in place while mixing.
- 10 speeds for nearly any task or recipe, from mixing ingredients together on the stir speed, to whipping cream at speed 8, you'll get thorough ingredient incorporation every time.
- Match your style with over 20 colors available. Choose from a full palette of color options to best match your style and personality.
- Choose from all the color options to find the one that best matches your style and personality.
- The power hub turns your stand mixer into a culinary center with more than 15 optional attachments available.
- 5-Qt. stainless steel bowl with comfortable handle offers enough capacity to mix dough for 9 dozen cookies or 4 loaves of bread in a single batch.
- 59-Point Planetary Mixing Action means 59 touchpoints per rotation around the bowl for thorough ingredient incorporation.
- The tilt-head design allows clear access to the bowl and attached beater or accessory so you can easily add ingredients for a recipe.
- Powerful enough for nearly any task or recipe, whether you’re stirring wet and dry ingredients together, kneading bread dough or whipping cream.
- Includes coated flat beater, coated dough hook, 6-wire whip and 1-piece pouring shield. The flat beater and dough hook are dishwasher-safe.
Ideal for Large Batches
If you find yourself in need of a KitchenAid stand mixer for those substantial culinary undertakings, look no further than the KitchenAid® 7 Quart Bowl-Lift Stand Mixer. This robust model mirrors those employed in commercial kitchens and boasts a capacious stainless steel bowl, capable of accommodating a generous six quarts of ingredients. With such ample capacity at your disposal, you can effortlessly whip up eight loaves of bread, numerous cakes, or dozens of cookies in a single batch.
What makes the KitchenAid® 7 Quart Bowl-Lift Stand Mixer particularly user-friendly for handling more extensive batches is the presence of a side-mounted speed knob. This feature empowers you to finely adjust the mixing speed as your culinary masterpiece takes shape. Moreover, the soft start feature ensures a gradual start, preventing flour and other ingredients from spilling over the bowl’s rim.
In your toolkit with the KitchenAid® 7 Quart Bowl-Lift Stand Mixer, you’ll find a valuable pouring shield, designed to facilitate the addition of wet ingredients to your dry mix without any messy mishaps. This versatile model also includes a whip and a dough hook, with the latter expertly amalgamating all ingredients without a trace of lumps or clumps. The whip, on the other hand, lets you conjure a light and fluffy meringue for your next pie or transform plain cream into delectable whipped cream for adorning your favorite desserts. What’s more, you’ll be pleased to know that this machine is compatible with various other KitchenAid accessories, adding to its versatility.
KitchenAid® 7 Quart Bowl-Lift Stand Mixer, Contour Silver
- Knead & shred at the next level with 2x the power in the bowl than Tilt-head stand mixer*; 3-point locking bowl for stability. *Compared to KSM150 when measuring peak HP in the bowl; above speed 2
- 11 distinct speeds for power and control - from our powerful speed 10 to our most delicate 1/2 speed, this mixer has power and control from high to low, and everything in between.
- Knead & shred at the next level with 2x the power in the bowl than Tilt-head stand mixer*; 3-point locking bowl for stability. *Compared to KSM150 when measuring peak HP in the bowl; above speed 2
- 11 distinct speeds for power and control - from our powerful speed 10 to our most delicate 1/2 speed, this mixer has power and control from high to low, and everything in between.
- Designed for folding, 1/2 speed gently adds delicate ingredients, like blueberries and egg whites, into recipes without overbeating.
- With 7 quart capacity, you can easily mix 13 dozen cookies per batch*, knead over 8.5 lbs of bread, or mash over 7.5 lbs of potatoes. *Using the flat beater; 28g dough each.
- Double flex edge beater designed with a twist and two flexible edges to scrape the bowl, giving you thorough ingredient incorporation and better results.* *Compared to our flat beater.
- Model KSM70SKXX includes (1) 7-Qt stainless steel bowl, (1) Double flex edge beater, (1) Coated flat beater, (1) Coated dough hook, (1) 11-wire whip, (1) Pouring shield
Perfect for Occasional Bakers and Compact Kitchens
For those who don’t require the heft of a larger mixer and have limited kitchen space, KitchenAid offers a splendid solution in the form of the Artisan Mini. It retains all the qualities you admire in full-size models while significantly reducing its footprint. This compact marvel not only occupies a mere 20% of the space compared to the Classic model but is also 25% lighter than its bulkier counterpart.
However, do not be misled into thinking that the Artisan Mini is solely fit for whipping up basic cookie dough. Equipped with a 3.5-quart stainless steel bowl, it boasts the capacity to accommodate at least two loaves of bread and multiple batches of cookies in a single mix. The model’s timeless design further enhances its appeal for those with smaller kitchens, featuring a unifying solid color on the body with sleek silver accents along the sides. You have the freedom to select from a range of colors, allowing you to seamlessly match the Artisan Mini with your other kitchen appliances or decor.
But the versatility of this mixer doesn’t stop at its size. With various attachments that easily snap into place on the power hub, it can potentially replace some of the other appliances in your kitchen. These attachments enable you to craft homemade pasta, succulent sausages, and an array of other culinary delights. And for added convenience, it’s compatible with the optional pouring shield, ensuring that your mixing experience remains mess-free and enjoyable.
KitchenAid KSM3311XAQ Artisan Mini Series Tilt-Head Stand Mixer, 3.5 quart, Aqua Sky...
- 25% lighter, 20% smaller footprint (compared with KitchenAid Classic Stand Mixer)
- Compatible with all attachments. Excludes bowls and beaters.
- The tilt-head design allows clear access to the bowl and attached beater or accessory so you can easily add ingredients for a recipe. Locking the head into place during operation keeps the beater-to-bowl contact close and efficient.
- 25% lighter, 20% smaller footprint (compared with KitchenAid Classic Stand Mixer)
- Compatible with all attachments. Excludes bowls and beaters.
- The tilt-head design allows clear access to the bowl and attached beater or accessory so you can easily add ingredients for a recipe. Locking the head into place during operation keeps the beater-to-bowl contact close and efficient.
- With colors from bold to understated, there's a Mini to match both your kitchen and your style
- Powerful enough for nearly any task or recipe, whether you’re stirring wet and dry ingredients together, kneading bread dough or whipping cream.
Varieties of Sizes and Models of KitchenAid Mixers
When embarking on your quest for a new mixer, a pivotal consideration is the size of the included bowl, as it significantly influences your culinary capabilities. Let’s delve into the diverse options:
- Artisan Mini: Sporting the most compact bowl in the lineup, the Artisan Mini still boasts an admirable 3.5-quart capacity. This provides sufficient room for mixing dough for two loaves of bread or producing up to five dozen cookies.
- Classic and Classic Plus: Both of these models feature a 4.5-quart bowl capacity and come equipped with a stainless steel bowl that ensures easy cleanup. This size enables you to whip up approximately six to seven dozen cookies, depending on the cookie size. It’s also ample for producing nearly two full loaves of bread dough.
- Artisan Tilt-Head: Stepping up the capacity game, this model offers a five-quart bowl, allowing you to work with more substantial batches. KitchenAid suggests it can accommodate dough for up to nine dozen cookies or enough bread dough for four loaves.
- KitchenAid® 7 Quart Bowl-Lift Stand Mixer: If you’re eyeing the grandest bowl size available for home use, look no further than the KitchenAid® 7 Quart Bowl-Lift Stand Mixer. With an expansive six-quart capacity, this model empowers you to create dough for more than 10 dozen cookies in a single batch.
Select the mixer that aligns with your culinary ambitions and the quantities you intend to prepare, ensuring it suits your specific baking and cooking requirements.
KitchenAid Classic Series 4.5 Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer K45SS, White
- #1 MIXER BRAND IN THE WORLD* *Source: Euromonitor International Ltd. for retail sales revenue, USD, all retail channels. More information, including date ranges available at: mixerclaim.kitchenaid.com
- Built to take it all on with the durable and built-to-last metal construction, and 59 touchpoints around the mixer bowl for great mixing results.
- #1 MIXER BRAND IN THE WORLD* *Source: Euromonitor International Ltd. for retail sales revenue, USD, all retail channels. More information, including date ranges available at: mixerclaim.kitchenaid.com
- Built to take it all on with the durable and built-to-last metal construction, and 59 touchpoints around the mixer bowl for great mixing results.
- 4.5 Quart Stainless Steel Bowl to mix up to 8 dozen cookies* in a single batch. Dishwasher safe. *Using the flat beater; 28g dough each
- Easily add ingredients with the tilt-head design, because you'll have better access to the bowl - lock the head in place while mixing
- 10 speeds for nearly any task or recipe, from mixing ingredients together on the stir speed, to whipping cream at speed 8, you'll get thorough ingredient incorporation every time
- 10+ attachments* to make more with your mixer to make everything from fresh pasta to burgers, veggie noodles, ice cream and more, *sold separately
- Model K455 includes (1) 4.5 Quart Stainless Steel Bowl, (1) Coated Flat Beater, (1) Coated Dough Hook, (1) 6-Wire Whip
Comparing Dough Mixers, Hand Mixers, and Stand Mixers
Evaluating the differences between a dough mixer, a hand mixer, and a stand mixer (or even a food processor) is a straightforward method for determining which appliance aligns with your specific needs. Here’s a breakdown of their characteristics and purposes:
Dough Mixers
- Resemble commercial mixers and are equipped with a specialized dough hook.
- The dough hook swiftly moves from the top to the bottom of the bowl, facilitating better aeration of the dough.
- As the hook scrapes along the bottom of the bowl, it brings up any trapped ingredients, resulting in a more uniformly mixed dough.
- Some KitchenAid mixers offer compatible dough hooks, allowing you to convert your stand mixer into a dedicated dough mixer.
Hand Mixers
- Lightweight and portable, hand mixers offer flexibility to work wherever you have an accessible outlet.
- Typically come with two sets of beaters for various mixing tasks, including blending wet and dry ingredients, and whipping eggs, cream, and other liquids.
- Hand mixers are designed for convenience, making them an ideal choice for those seeking a more mobile way to mix ingredients.
- However, hand mixers are generally not as powerful as stand mixers and may struggle with thicker dough, potentially risking motor burnout.
Stand Mixers
- Sturdy and stationary appliances designed for hands-free mixing, freeing up the cook’s hands for other tasks.
- Equipped with various attachments, including a beater, whisk, and dough hook, for versatile mixing options.
- Offer consistent and powerful mixing, making them suitable for a wide range of tasks, from kneading dough to whipping cream.
- Typically come with a larger mixing bowl, accommodating sizable batches of ingredients.
- Feature adjustable speed settings for precise control over mixing intensity.
- Suitable for heavy-duty mixing tasks, such as bread and pizza dough, that may strain hand mixers.
- Stand mixers are often more expensive and occupy more counter space, but they are invaluable for serious bakers and cooks.
In essence, the choice between these mixing appliances hinges on your specific needs, the type of cooking or baking you engage in, and your preferences for convenience and power. Each type of mixer serves its own unique purpose, and understanding their strengths and limitations is key to selecting the most suitable option for your culinary adventures.
Features of KitchenAid Mixers
While specific features may vary depending on the model, KitchenAid stand mixers share several common attributes, ensuring versatility and convenience in your culinary endeavors:
- Power Hub: A built-in power hub supplies the motor with power and allows you to use a range of compatible attachments with the mixer, expanding its functionality.
- Hub Cover: Most models are equipped with a hub cover, serving as a protective shield for the power hub. It easily lifts off to facilitate the attachment of various accessories.
- Planetary Mixing Action: The Artisan Tilt-Head model, in particular, features Planetary Mixing Action. This innovative mechanism ensures that beaters and other attachments make contact with the bowl in 59 distinct locations, resulting in thorough and consistent ingredient mixing.
- Tilting Head or Bowl Lift: Different models offer varying mechanisms for accessing the mixing bowl. Some feature a tilting head, allowing you to pivot the head away from the bowl for easy access. Others utilize a bowl lift system to raise and lower the bowl for mixing.
- Stainless Steel Bowl with Handle: Included with many models, the stainless steel mixing bowl incorporates a handle on the side. This handle simplifies the process of moving the bowl from the mixer to your baking dish or tray, minimizing the risk of spilling dough. It’s also handy for repositioning the bowl onto the mixer after cleaning.
- Attachments: KitchenAid mixers frequently come with essential attachments, including a beater and a whip, which are ideal for various mixing tasks. Depending on the model, you may also receive additional attachments such as a pouring shield and a dough hook, enhancing the mixer’s versatility.
These features collectively contribute to the overall functionality, user-friendliness, and adaptability of KitchenAid mixers, making them an excellent choice for home cooks and bakers.
Compatible KitchenAid Accessories
When investing in a KitchenAid mixer, it’s ideal to have an appliance that can do more than just mix. KitchenAid offers an array of compatible accessories for various models, although compatibility can vary, so it’s important to check which accessories are suitable for your specific mixer. Here are some noteworthy options:
- Ice Cream Maker Attachment: Create up to two quarts of homemade ice cream with this attachment. It includes a paddle for churning the ice cream and a freezer-safe bowl.
- Pasta Roller and Cutter Set: This popular attachment allows you to effortlessly roll and cut your own fresh pasta. It conveniently attaches to your mixer and can be used to mix the pasta dough as well.
- Food Processor Attachment: Transform your stand mixer into a food processor with this attachment. It features various settings for cutting ingredients into smaller or larger pieces, adding versatility to your food preparation.
- Vegetable Sheet Cutter Attachment: Utilize your mixer’s motor to cut thin sheets from fresh vegetables, adding a unique and creative touch to your dishes.
- Juicer Attachment: For those looking to prepare fresh juices, KitchenAid offers a juicer attachment that easily connects to your mixer, making juicing a breeze.
- Food Grinder Attachment: This attachment enables you to grind a variety of ingredients, enhancing your culinary capabilities.
- Ravioli Maker Attachment: Create homemade ravioli effortlessly with the dedicated ravioli maker attachment.
These accessories expand the functionality of your KitchenAid mixer, allowing you to explore a wide range of culinary possibilities, from making your own pasta to preparing fresh, homemade ice cream. Remember to verify compatibility with your specific KitchenAid mixer model before making a purchase.
Cleaning and Maintaining Your KitchenAid Mixers
Properly cleaning and maintaining your mixer ensures its longevity and optimal performance. Here’s how to do it:
- Hand Washing: While some parts of your mixer may be dishwasher safe, the unit itself should be hand washed. Use a cloth or towel dipped in warm, soapy water to wipe down the outside of the machine, removing any stuck-on food residue. For stubborn debris, consider using a nonabrasive sponge or cloth.
- Rinsing: After cleaning the exterior, rinse the cloth under cool water and run it over the machine to remove any soap residue, leaving it clean and free from streaks.
- Cleaning the Power Hub: Lift the cover off the power hub and remove the nut inside to clean the hub. Food particles can accumulate inside the hub, especially when using dry ingredients. Regularly checking and cleaning this area helps maintain the mixer’s efficiency.
- Underneath the Mixer: Each time you use your mixer, consider moving it to a different location to clean underneath. Debris can accumulate on the bottom, and shifting the mixer helps ensure no hidden residue remains.
By following these simple cleaning and maintenance practices, you can keep your KitchenAid mixer in excellent condition, ensuring that it continues to serve you well in your culinary endeavors.
Prevent Bowl Movement and Wobbling
At times, when operating your KitchenAid mixer at higher speeds, you might encounter unwanted wobbling or even find the mixer shifting across the countertop. This can happen due to countertop imperfections or the presence of liquids. A simple solution to address this issue is to use a towel:
- Lift the Base: Gently lift the base of your KitchenAid mixer.
- Place a Towel: Lay a standard towel on the counter where you intend to position the mixer.
- Reposition the Mixer: Set the mixer back down onto the towel.
By introducing the towel beneath the mixer, you create additional grip and stability. This prevents wobbling and movement during high-speed mixing sessions, ensuring your mixer stays securely in place and continues to operate smoothly.
Glass vs. Stainless Steel Bowls for KitchenAid Stand Mixers
When it comes to choosing between glass and stainless steel bowls for your KitchenAid mixer, there are several factors to consider. Let’s explore the pros and cons of each material:
Glass Bowls
Pros:
- Measurement Markings: Glass bowls often come with embossed measurement markings, which can be handy for adding ingredients without the need for separate measuring tools.
- Pour Spout: Glass bowls typically feature a pour spout, making it easy to pour batter or mixtures with precision, especially useful for making pancakes, muffins, and similar treats.
- Heat Retention: Glass, particularly tempered glass, is known for better heat retention compared to metal, which can be advantageous for certain recipes.
Cons:
- Fragility: Glass bowls are more susceptible to shattering when dropped or struck, posing a risk of breakage.
Stainless Steel Bowls
Pros:
- Durability: Stainless steel bowls are highly durable and resistant to chipping, cracking, or shattering, ensuring a longer lifespan.
- Heat Dissipation: While hot ingredients can make the metal bowl feel warm, it won’t shatter or break when exposed to heat. The material can handle high-temperature conditions without any risk of damage.
- Measurement Markings and Handle: Many stainless steel bowls include measurement markings for added convenience and a handle for ease of handling.
Cons:
- Lack of Heat Retention: Stainless steel doesn’t retain heat as well as glass, which can be a drawback for recipes that benefit from sustained warmth.
In summary, the choice between glass and stainless steel bowls depends on your preferences and intended usage. Glass bowls offer convenience with their measurement markings and pour spouts, along with heat retention properties, but they are more fragile. Stainless steel bowls are exceptionally durable and safe in high-temperature conditions, though they may lack some of the temperature-related advantages of glass. Consider your specific needs and the level of care and handling you can provide to make the best choice for your KitchenAid mixer.
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Conclusion
Choosing the right bowl material for your KitchenAid stand mixer ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. Both glass and stainless steel bowls offer distinct advantages and drawbacks.
Glass bowls are favored for their measurement markings, convenient pour spouts, and excellent heat retention. However, they are more fragile and prone to shattering when dropped or struck, demanding careful handling.
On the other hand, stainless steel bowls excel in durability and heat resistance. They can endure high-temperature conditions without any risk of damage and often come equipped with measurement markings and handles for added convenience. While they may lack the same heat-retention properties as glass, their longevity and robustness make them an attractive choice.
In your decision, consider the types of recipes you frequently prepare and the level of care you can provide. If you value convenience and heat retention, a glass bowl might be your preferred option. If durability and resilience are your top priorities, a stainless steel bowl will likely suit your needs best.
Ultimately, whether you opt for glass or stainless steel, rest assured that your KitchenAid stand mixer will continue to be a versatile and reliable tool in your culinary adventures.
