Hand mixers are a valuable and versatile kitchen tool for any home cook. These portable and lightweight appliances take up minimal space and maximize your kitchen space. Hand mixer features vary, including the ergonomic handle and weight, which can please or worry you about the appliance’s stability, making them important considerations for serious home cooks. Before purchasing a hand mixer for yourself or someone just starting out, it’s helpful to examine the features and accessories offered by the best hand mixers.
Hamilton Beach 6-Speed Electric Hand Mixer with Whisk
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- No more lost beaters. The storage case easily snaps onto the hand mixer. The case holds the included attachments to prevent lost beaters and reduce kitchen clutter.
- 6 speeds with QuickBurst button. This versatile hand mixer has 6 different speed options, plus a QuickBurst button for an extra burst of power when you need it. It easily handles a variety of ingredient, from nuts to dry flour and creamy butter. Rest stabilizer Six speeds with Quick
What To Consider When Choosing A Hand Mixer?
When choosing a hand mixer, there are several factors to consider:
Hand Mixer Motor
- Power
The power of the motor will determine the mixer’s ability to handle thick and heavy ingredients.
Hand mixer motors are typically measured in watts, with higher wattage indicating a more powerful motor. Most hand mixers have motors that range from 100-300 watts, with more powerful motors being able to handle thicker and more challenging ingredients, such as bread dough or heavy cream.
- Speed Settings
In addition to wattage, the speed of the motor is also an important consideration. Most hand mixers come with multiple speed settings, allowing you to adjust the speed to match the ingredients you are working with. Look for a hand mixer with a motor that has a range of speeds, so you can easily adjust the mixer to suit your needs.
Most hand mixers come with at least three-speed settings, with some models offering up to nine different speeds. Look for a hand mixer with a wide range of speed settings, as this will allow you to mix a variety of ingredients, from light whipped cream to heavy bread dough.
Some hand mixers also come with a turbo or power boost button, which provides an additional burst of power for particularly tough or thick ingredients. This can be useful when working with dense cookie dough or heavy cream.
Another important consideration is how easy it is to adjust the speed settings. Look for a hand mixer with speed control that is easy to access and adjust, so you can quickly and easily change the speed as needed.
- Noise
Finally, consider the noise level of the motor. Some hand mixers can be quite loud, which can be a nuisance if you are mixing ingredients early in the morning or late at night. Look for a hand mixer with a motor that runs quietly, so you can enjoy the convenience of a hand mixer without the noise.
Hand Mixer Attachments
Hand mixers typically come with several different types of attachments that can be used for different tasks. Here are some common hand mixer attachments:
- Beaters: Beaters are the most common type of attachment that comes with a hand mixer. They are typically made of metal and come in pairs. Beaters are used for general mixings, such as for cake batters or cookie dough.
- Dough hooks: Dough hooks are another common attachment that comes with some hand mixers. They are typically made of metal and are designed to knead and mix the dough, such as for bread or pizza crust.
- Whisks: Whisks are attachments that have a wire loop design and are used for whipping ingredients such as cream or egg whites. They are typically made of metal and come in different sizes depending on the hand mixer model.
- Blending rod: Some hand mixers come with a blending rod attachment, which is essentially a long metal stick that is used for blending or pureeing ingredients directly in a mixing bowl. This can be particularly useful for making smoothies or soups.
- Spatula attachment: Some hand mixers come with a spatula attachment that has flexible edges made of rubber or silicone. This attachment can help scrape the sides of the bowl and ensure all ingredients are evenly mixed.
It’s important to choose a hand mixer with attachments that meet your specific needs in the kitchen. Some hand mixers may come with all of these attachments, while others may only come with one or two. You may also be able to purchase additional attachments separately depending on the brand and model of your hand mixer.
Hand Mixer Materials
Hand mixers are typically made of a combination of plastic, metal, and sometimes rubber or silicone. Here’s a breakdown of the materials commonly used in hand mixers:
- Plastic: Most of the body of a hand mixer is typically made of plastic, which helps keep the mixer lightweight and easy to handle. The plastic is often reinforced with glass fibres to make it more durable.
- Metal: The beaters and other attachments on a hand mixer are typically made of metal, such as stainless steel, aluminium, or chrome. Metal is strong and durable, and can withstand the friction and heat generated during mixing.
- Rubber or silicone: Some hand mixers come with rubber or silicone grips on the handle, which can make it more comfortable to hold and help prevent slipping. Some mixer attachments also feature flexible edges made of rubber or silicone, which can help scrape the sides of the bowl and ensure all ingredients are evenly mixed.
Overall, the combination of plastic and metal makes hand mixers lightweight and durable, while the addition of rubber or silicone can help make them more comfortable to use and efficient at mixing ingredients. It’s important to choose a hand mixer made of high-quality materials to ensure it can withstand regular use over time.
Ergonomics and Weight
The handle is the point of contact between the user and the mixer. The design and ergonomics of the handle can impact your comfort and control while using the mixer.
Look for a hand mixer with a handle that is comfortable to grip and fits well in your hand. The handle should be well-balanced and not feel too heavy or too light. Some hand mixers have handles that are contoured to fit the shape of your hand, which can provide additional comfort and control.
Another important consideration is the material of the handle. Look for a hand mixer with a handle that is made from a durable, heat-resistant material, such as plastic or rubber. This will ensure that the handle remains cool to the touch even when mixing hot ingredients.
Finally, consider the size of the handle. If you have smaller hands, you may prefer a hand mixer with a smaller handle, as this can make it easier to grip and control the mixer. Conversely, if you have larger hands, a hand mixer with a larger handle may be more comfortable to use.
By considering the design and ergonomics of the handle when choosing a hand mixer, you can find a model that is comfortable and easy to use, even for extended periods.
Hand Mixer Controls
A hand mixer typically has a few basic controls that allow you to adjust its speed and power. Here are the most common controls you might find on a hand mixer:
- Power button: This button turns the mixer on and off.
- Speed control: This control allows you to adjust the speed of the mixer. Most hand mixers have several speed settings, usually labelled from 1 to 5 or 6. Lower speeds are best for mixing dry ingredients, while higher speeds are best for whipping cream or egg whites.
- Turbo button: Some hand mixers have a turbo button that provides an extra burst of power for tough mixing tasks.
- Eject button: This button allows you to easily remove the beaters or attachments from the mixer.
- Beater release button: Some hand mixers have a separate button to release the beaters or attachments, rather than using the eject button. This button is usually located near the base of the mixer.
It’s important to consult the manual that comes with your specific hand mixer to understand how to use the controls properly and safely.
Pulse/Boost Feature
Some hand mixers have a pulse or boost feature, which allows for an extra burst of power for tough mixing tasks.
The pulse/boost feature is a button on the hand mixer that, when pressed, provides an extra burst of power. This can be helpful for mixing thicker or heavier ingredients, such as dough or nut butter.
As the mixer will briefly increase to a higher speed, this can help break up clumps or mix ingredients more thoroughly.
The pulse/boost feature should be used sparingly and only when necessary. It’s not recommended to use it for extended periods of time, as it can cause the mixer to overheat or the ingredients to splash out of the bowl. The pulse/boost feature is typically only available when using the beater attachments, not the whisk or dough hooks.
When using the pulse/boost feature, be sure to hold the mixer firmly and keep it at a slight angle to prevent ingredients from splattering out of the bowl. It’s also important to avoid overworking the mixer and to let it rest periodically to prevent overheating.
Plastic Casing on Controls
Many hand mixers, especially high-end models, come with control buttons that are protected by a plastic casing. This is a useful feature because it helps prevent ingredients from getting inside the buttons and causing them to malfunction.
When you’re mixing ingredients with a hand mixer, it’s common for ingredients like batter, egg whites, or cream to splatter onto the mixer and its controls. Over time, this can cause the controls to become clogged with ingredients and make them difficult to use.
By having a plastic casing over the control buttons, you can prevent this from happening. The plastic casing acts as a barrier between the controls and the ingredients, keeping the controls clean and free from obstruction.
This feature is particularly useful if you’re using the hand mixer frequently or for heavy-duty tasks like making bread dough or whipped cream. It can save you time and effort in cleaning and maintaining the mixer.
If you’re in the market for a hand mixer and want this feature, look for models that advertise control buttons with plastic protection or covers. Some models may also have removable covers that can be easily cleaned, making maintenance even more convenient.
Scraper Beaters
Scraper beaters are hand mixer attachments that feature flexible rubber or silicone edges that scrape the sides and bottom of the mixing bowl as they rotate. This helps to ensure that all ingredients are evenly mixed together, while also reducing the amount of batter or dough that sticks to the sides of the bowl.
Using scraper beaters can help you achieve better mixing results with less effort. They can also help to reduce the amount of batter or dough that sticks to the sides of the bowl, which can save you time and reduce the amount of waste.
Scraper beaters are typically compatible with most standard hand mixers, but it’s always a good idea to check the compatibility of the attachment with your specific mixer before purchasing.
Scraper beaters are typically dishwasher safe or can be easily cleaned by hand. Just be sure to remove the attachment from the mixer before cleaning it.
Stability
Hand mixer stability is an important factor to consider when using this type of kitchen appliance. Here are some tips for ensuring stability while using a hand mixer:
Use a large, stable bowl: When using a hand mixer, make sure to use a large bowl that is stable and won’t move around easily. A heavy mixing bowl with a wide base is ideal.
Keep the mixer at an angle: Hold the mixer at a slight angle, rather than perpendicular to the bowl. This will help prevent the beaters from bouncing around and spraying ingredients outside the bowl.
Start on low speed: Always start on a low-speed setting to prevent splattering and allow the ingredients to incorporate evenly.
Gradually increase the speed: Slowly increase the speed as the ingredients mix together, but be careful not to go too fast too quickly.
Don’t lift the mixer out of the bowl: Keep the beaters in the bowl at all times while the mixer is on. Lifting the mixer out of the bowl while it’s still running can cause the beaters to splatter and make a mess.
Use the mixer in short bursts: Mix for short periods of time, about 30 seconds at a time, to avoid overheating the motor.
Turn off the mixer before lifting it out of the bowl: Make sure to turn off the mixer before lifting it out of the bowl to prevent splattering.
By following these tips, you can ensure stability when using a hand mixer and avoid making a mess in your kitchen.
Corded vs. Cordless
Hand mixers can come in two different types: corded and cordless. Here are some differences between the two:
Corded Hand Mixers:
- Require a power outlet to operate
- Provide consistent and reliable power
- Often have more powerful motors than cordless hand mixers
- Can be used for longer periods of time without needing to recharge
- Generally less expensive than cordless models
- Limit the range of motion due to the length of the cord
Cordless Hand Mixers:
- Operate on rechargeable batteries
- Provide a greater range of motion due to the lack of a cord
- Can be used anywhere, even when an outlet is not available
- Offer more convenience and portability
- May have less powerful motors than corded hand mixers
- Need to be recharged after each use and may have a limited battery life
When deciding between a corded or cordless hand mixer, consider your specific needs and preferences. If you need a hand mixer with a lot of power, a corded model may be the best option. If you value portability and the ability to use the mixer anywhere, a cordless model may be more suitable. Ultimately, both corded and cordless hand mixers can be effective for different purposes and it’s up to you to determine which one fits your needs.
Brand Reputation
Brand reputation can be an important consideration when choosing a hand mixer, particularly in terms of quality guarantee, warranty, and overall customer support. Higher-end brands with a strong reputation for quality, such as KitchenAid, may offer longer warranties or better customer support than lower-end brands with a less established reputation.
Additionally, brand reputation can be a good indicator of the overall quality of the product. Brands that have a reputation for producing high-quality kitchen appliances are likely to apply the same level of attention to detail and quality control to their hand mixers.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that a higher price tag doesn’t always guarantee higher quality. It’s possible to find well-made and reliable hand mixers from budget-friendly brands, as well as poorly-made and unreliable hand mixers from more expensive brands. It’s always a good idea to read reviews and do your research before making a purchase to ensure you’re getting a quality product that meets your needs and budget.
How Can I Clean A Hand Mixer Easily?
Cleaning your hand mixer is an important part of maintaining its performance and longevity. Here are some tips for easy cleaning:
- Unplug the mixer: Before cleaning your hand mixer, always unplug it to ensure your safety.
- Remove the attachments: Remove any attachments, such as beaters or whisks, from the mixer. This will make it easier to clean the mixer’s body and prevent any water from getting inside the motor.
- Wipe down the mixer body: Use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe down the mixer body, including the handle and buttons. Avoid getting any water or moisture near the motor or electrical components.
- Clean the attachments: Depending on the material of your attachments, you can wash them by hand or in the dishwasher. If there is any stuck-on batter or dough, soak them in warm soapy water before cleaning.
- Dry thoroughly: After cleaning, dry all parts of the mixer thoroughly before storing it. If water or moisture is left on the mixer, it can cause rust or damage to the motor.
- Store properly: Store your hand mixer in a dry and cool place. Make sure the attachments are dry and properly stored with the mixer, so they are easy to find next time you need them.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your hand mixer stays in good condition for many years. Regular cleaning not only helps to prevent any damage or rust, but it also helps to maintain the hygiene and safety of your kitchen equipment.
What Mixture Can Be Done In A Hand Mixer?
A hand mixer is a versatile kitchen tool that can be used for a variety of mixing tasks. Here are some common mixtures that can be done using a hand mixer:
- Cake batter: Hand mixers are perfect for mixing cake batter quickly and easily. You can use the standard beaters to mix the batter or use the whisk attachment to incorporate more air into the mixture for a lighter texture.
- Whipped cream: A hand mixer can make whipped cream in just a few minutes. Use the whisk attachment to whip heavy cream with sugar and vanilla until it reaches stiff peaks.
- Frostings: Hand mixers are great for making frosting cakes and cupcakes. You can use the standard beaters to mix butter and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Pancake or waffle batter: You can use a hand mixer to mix pancake or waffle batter quickly and easily. Mix the ingredients together using the standard beaters until smooth.
- Mashed potatoes: A hand mixer can be used to make mashed potatoes quickly and easily. Use the standard beaters to mix cooked potatoes with butter, milk, and seasonings until smooth.
- Bread dough: While a hand mixer is not ideal for heavy bread dough, it can be used for lighter doughs like pizza dough or focaccia dough. Use the dough hook attachment to mix the dough until smooth and elastic.
Overall, a hand mixer can be used for a wide range of mixing tasks in the kitchen, making it a versatile and valuable tool to have on hand.
What Is The Difference Between Hand Mixers And Stand Mixers?
Hand mixers and stand mixers are both kitchen appliances used for mixing and blending ingredients, but they have some key differences.
The most obvious difference between hand mixers and stand mixers is the way they are designed. Hand mixers are handheld and operated manually, while stand mixers are larger, stationary appliances with a motor that powers the mixing action.
Stand mixers are generally more powerful than hand mixers, and can handle larger quantities of ingredients more efficiently. They typically come with a range of attachments, such as dough hooks and paddle beaters, which allow you to perform a variety of tasks, from mixing cake batter to kneading bread dough.
Hand mixers, on the other hand, are more compact and easier to store, making them a good choice for smaller kitchens or those with limited storage space. They are also more affordable than stand mixers, which can be quite expensive.
Another difference between hand mixers and stand mixers is the level of control they provide. Hand mixers allow you to easily move the beaters around the bowl and adjust the speed as needed, giving you greater control over the mixing process. Stand mixers, while more powerful, are less manoeuvrable and may not provide the same level of precision.
Ultimately, the choice between a hand mixer and a stand mixer depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you frequently bake in large quantities or make bread dough, a stand mixer may be a better choice. If you have limited storage space or prefer more control over the mixing process, a hand mixer may be the way to go.
