A dough mixer is a tool that mixes, combines or whips ingredients together using an electric motor with several adjustable speeds. It is widely used for making desserts, bakery items, cakes and cookies, and comes with interchangeable attachments for different mixtures.
The two common types of dough mixer are the hand mixer and the stand mixer.
When buying a dough mixer, consider the following to match it to your needs.
1) Machine Size and Price
- Hand mixer: Small, with no bowl and a comfortable grip. Used to whip egg whites or cream or for light mixing that doesn't need much power. Some models have interchangeable attachments.
- Stand mixer, 3 to 5 litres: Not too large; suitable for home use or beginners learning to bake.
- Stand mixer, 7 to 10 litres: A larger machine, suitable for people starting to bake for sale as a side business.
- Stand mixer, over 10 litres: Has a large motor, suitable for bakery businesses or commercial food mixing.
2) Power
Power varies by type and is measured in watts (W). Hand mixers are around 200 to 400 watts, while stand mixers are 300 watts and up. The higher the wattage, the more powerfully and the longer the machine can mix.
3) Speed Settings
Dough mixers usually offer 3 to 5 speed settings, and some models have as many as 10.
4) Three Standard Attachments
- Dough hook: C-shaped or spiral, used to knead bread and pizza dough.
- Whisk: Used at high speed to whip eggs, meringue or mixtures until stiff.
- Flat beater (paddle): A versatile attachment that breaks up ingredients and helps them become light and fluffy, often used to cream butter and sugar or beat liquids until airy.
5) Noise Level
Because dough mixers run on electric motors, some models can be rather noisy. Choose a quality model with a high-standard motor that is certified to run quietly.
6) Care and Cleaning
Hand mixers are easier to clean, as you only need to wash the beaters, and they save storage space. Stand mixers must be taken apart and washed with a mild, non-corrosive dishwashing liquid, without harsh scouring pads. Let all parts dry completely before reassembling.
With these points in mind, you can choose the right dough mixer for your needs.
