In this article, you will discover a comprehensive review of stand mixers specifically designed for artisan bread making. If you love baking and have always dreamt of mastering the art of creating delicious, crusty loaves of bread at home, then you’re in for a treat. We will explore the top stand mixers available in the market, detailing their features, performance, and durability to help you make an informed decision. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, this review will guide you in selecting the perfect stand mixer to elevate your bread-making game. Get ready to unleash your inner artisan bread maker!
Choosing the Right Stand Mixer
When it comes to making artisan bread, having the right stand mixer can make all the difference. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to know which one to choose. That’s why we’re here to help! In this comprehensive review, we will walk you through the key factors to consider when selecting a stand mixer for artisan bread making. From power and capacity to stability and durability, speed settings, and attachments and accessories, we’ve got you covered.
Power and Capacity
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a stand mixer for artisan bread making is the power and capacity it offers. Artisan bread dough can be quite demanding on a mixer, so having a powerful motor is crucial. Look for a stand mixer with at least 325 watts of power, although higher wattage is even better for tackling dense doughs.
In addition to power, the capacity of the mixer’s bowl is another key consideration. You’ll want to ensure that the bowl is large enough to accommodate the size of the bread you plan to make. A bowl capacity of 5-6 quarts is generally sufficient for most home bakers, but if you frequently bake large loaves or multiple loaves at once, you may want to opt for a larger capacity.
Lastly, don’t forget to consider overload protection. Some stand mixers are equipped with sensors that automatically shut off the motor if it becomes overloaded, preventing damage to the machine.
Stability and Durability
When you’re dealing with heavy doughs, stability and durability are paramount. Look for a stand mixer that is solidly built and made from high-quality materials. Stainless steel is a great option for both the body and the attachments, as it is strong and easy to clean.
Weight is also an important factor to consider when it comes to stability. A heavier stand mixer will be less likely to move or wobble while kneading dough. Aim for a weight of at least 20 pounds to ensure a stable and secure mixing experience.
An anti-slip base is another feature to look out for. This will help keep the mixer in place during use, preventing any accidents or mishaps.
Speed Settings
Having the right speed settings on your stand mixer is essential for achieving the perfect texture and consistency in your artisan bread. Look for a mixer with a wide range of speed options, allowing you to start slow and gradually increase the speed as needed. This will give you greater control over the mixing process and prevent overmixing.
A pulse function is also useful for quickly incorporating ingredients or giving the dough a final mix before shaping. This brief burst of power can be just what’s needed to bring everything together without overworking the dough.
Additionally, consider a stand mixer with a slow start feature. This gently ramps up the speed to prevent ingredients from splattering out of the bowl when the mixer is first turned on.
Attachments and Accessories
The attachments and accessories that come with a stand mixer can greatly enhance its versatility and functionality. When it comes to artisan bread making, there are several key attachments to look for.
A dough hook is a must-have attachment for kneading bread dough. It mimics the action of hand kneading, ensuring even distribution of ingredients and proper gluten development.
A flat beater is another essential attachment that can be used for various tasks, such as mixing batters, mashing potatoes, or making cookie dough.
A wire whip is perfect for whipping egg whites or cream to incorporate air into your recipes. It’s great for making fluffy meringues or whipped cream toppings.
A flex edge beater is a versatile attachment that scrapes the sides of the bowl as it mixes, ensuring all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated. This can be especially useful for stickier doughs that tend to cling to the sides.
A pouring shield is a handy accessory that prevents splatters and spills when adding ingredients to the mixing bowl. It can save you from a messy cleanup and keep your kitchen countertop spotless.
Lastly, consider the availability of additional attachments that can expand the functionality of your stand mixer. Some brands offer a wide range of attachments, such as pasta rollers, meat grinders, or spiralizers, which can turn your stand mixer into a multifunctional kitchen tool.
With these factors in mind, let’s dive into our comprehensive review of the top stand mixers for artisan bread making.
Top Stand Mixers for Artisan Bread Making
In our search for the best stand mixers for artisan bread making, we’ve carefully evaluated numerous models based on their power and capacity, stability and durability, speed settings, and the attachments and accessories they offer. After thorough testing and consideration, we’ve narrowed down our top picks to the following stand mixers:
KitchenAid Artisan Series
The KitchenAid Artisan Series stand mixer is a beloved classic that has stood the test of time. With a 325-watt motor and a 5-quart bowl capacity, it offers ample power and space for most artisan bread baking needs. The iconic design and wide range of available colors make it a stylish addition to any kitchen.
The performance of the KitchenAid Artisan Series mixer shines in dough mixing. The dough hook attachment kneads bread dough to perfection, resulting in well-developed gluten and a beautifully textured bread. The mixer comes with a flat beater and a wire whip as well, providing versatility for various recipes.
Attachments and accessories for the KitchenAid Artisan Series are plentiful. From pasta makers to meat grinders, there is a wide range of options to expand the functionality of this stand mixer. Additional attachments can be purchased separately to suit your specific needs.
Overall, the KitchenAid Artisan Series receives rave reviews from customers. Its durability, ease of use, and excellent performance in bread making make it a top choice for many home bakers.
Cuisinart SM-50BC
The Cuisinart SM-50BC stand mixer is another standout option for artisan bread making. With a powerful 500-watt motor and a 5.5-quart bowl capacity, it offers even more power and space than the KitchenAid Artisan Series. This makes it ideal for handling large batches of dough or heavy mixtures.
In terms of performance, the Cuisinart SM-50BC delivers excellent results in dough mixing. The dough hook attachment tackles even the most challenging doughs with ease, resulting in perfectly kneaded bread dough. The stand mixer comes with a flat beater and a wire whip as well, providing versatility for a wide range of recipes.
Attachments and accessories for the Cuisinart SM-50BC are also available, although the range may not be as extensive as some other brands. However, the stand mixer’s excellent performance and durability compensate for this limitation.
Customer reviews for the Cuisinart SM-50BC are overwhelmingly positive, praising its power, stability, and ability to handle large batches of dough. Many customers appreciate the value for money this stand mixer offers compared to higher-end models.
Bosch Universal Plus
The Bosch Universal Plus stand mixer is a heavy-duty workhorse that excels in artisan bread making. With an impressive 800-watt motor and a 6.5-quart bowl capacity, it is the most powerful and spacious option on our list. This makes it the ideal choice for serious bread enthusiasts or those who frequently bake large quantities of bread.
When it comes to dough mixing, the Bosch Universal Plus stands out from the competition. Its unique dual-hook dough kneading system ensures thorough and consistent mixing, resulting in superior gluten development and perfectly textured bread. The mixer comes with a flat beater and a wire whip as well, providing versatility for various recipes.
Attachments and accessories for the Bosch Universal Plus are available, allowing you to further expand its functionality. From pasta rollers to blender attachments, there is a range of options to suit different culinary needs.
Customer reviews for the Bosch Universal Plus are overwhelmingly positive, with users praising its power, stability, and ability to handle heavy doughs with ease. While it may be a more significant investment than other stand mixers, many customers feel that its performance justifies the price.
Kenwood Chef Titanium
The Kenwood Chef Titanium stand mixer is a high-quality option that offers impressive power and durability. With a robust 1400-watt motor and a 5-quart bowl capacity, it is a force to be reckoned with in the kitchen. The Titanium stand mixer is designed to handle heavy-duty tasks, making it an excellent choice for artisan bread making.
In terms of dough mixing, the Kenwood Chef Titanium delivers exceptional results. Its unique planetary mixing action ensures thorough and even mixing, producing well-developed gluten and perfectly textured bread. The stand mixer comes with a dough hook, a flat beater, and a wire whip, providing versatility for various recipes.
Attachments and accessories for the Kenwood Chef Titanium are available, allowing you to expand its functionality. From pasta rollers to meat grinders, there is a range of options to suit different culinary needs.
Customer reviews for the Kenwood Chef Titanium are highly positive, with users praising its power, stability, and durability. Many customers appreciate its ability to handle heavy doughs without straining the motor, making it a reliable choice for artisan bread making.
Ankarsrum Original
The Ankarsrum Original stand mixer is a unique and innovative option that stands out from the competition. With an impressive 600-watt motor and an 8-quart bowl capacity, it offers ample power and space for even the most demanding artisan bread recipes. The Ankarsrum Original is known for its exceptional build quality and durability.
Dough mixing is a breeze with the Ankarsrum Original. Its unique design, featuring a rotating bowl and a stationary roller, provides thorough and efficient mixing, resulting in perfectly developed gluten and airy bread. The mixer comes with a dough hook, a flat beater, and a wire whip, ensuring versatility for various recipes.
Attachments and accessories for the Ankarsrum Original are available, allowing you to enhance its functionality. From pasta makers to berry presses, there is a range of options to suit different culinary needs.
Customer reviews for the Ankarsrum Original are excellent, with users praising its power, stability, and ability to handle large batches of dough. Many customers appreciate its unique design and exceptional durability, making it a standout option for artisan bread making.
Vollrath Countertop Commercial Mixer
The Vollrath Countertop Commercial Mixer is a professional-grade option that offers impressive power and durability. With a powerful 1000-watt motor and an 8-quart bowl capacity, it is designed for commercial use but can also be a fantastic choice for serious home bakers. The Vollrath mixer’s reliable motor ensures consistent performance even under heavy loads.
The Vollrath mixer excels in dough mixing, thanks to its robust design and powerful motor. It comes with a dough hook, a flat beater, and a wire whip, providing versatility for a wide range of recipes. The mixer is known for its exceptional reliability and durability, making it suitable for frequent and demanding bread baking.
Attachments and accessories for the Vollrath mixer may be limited compared to some other brands. However, its impressive performance and longevity make it a top choice for those who prioritize power and durability.
Customer reviews for the Vollrath Countertop Commercial Mixer are highly positive, with users praising its power, stability, and build quality. Many customers appreciate its ability to handle large batches of dough without straining the motor, making it a reliable option for artisan bread making.
Hamilton Beach Eclectrics Stand Mixer
The Hamilton Beach Eclectrics stand mixer is a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on performance or quality. With a powerful 400-watt motor and a 4.5-quart bowl capacity, it offers sufficient power and space for most home baking needs. The Hamilton Beach mixer’s retro design and attractive colors make it a stylish addition to any kitchen.
When it comes to dough mixing, the Hamilton Beach Eclectrics performs admirably. It comes with a dough hook, a flat beater, and a wire whip, providing versatility for various recipes. The mixer’s tilt-head design allows for easy access to the bowl and attachments, making it convenient to use.
Attachments and accessories for the Hamilton Beach Eclectrics may be more limited compared to higher-end models. However, its affordable price, reliability, and solid performance make it an excellent choice for beginner bakers or those on a budget.
Customer reviews for the Hamilton Beach Eclectrics stand mixer are largely positive, with users praising its affordability, reliability, and performance in basic baking tasks. Many customers appreciate its compact size and ease of use, making it a great option for those with limited countertop space.
Sunbeam Mixmaster
The Sunbeam Mixmaster stand mixer is a reliable and affordable option for home bakers. With a 350-watt motor and a 4-quart bowl capacity, it offers sufficient power and space for most basic baking needs. The Sunbeam mixer’s retro design and classic colors add a touch of nostalgia to any kitchen.
In terms of dough mixing, the Sunbeam Mixmaster performs well. It comes with a dough hook, a flat beater, and a wire whip, providing versatility for various recipes. The mixer’s dual-motor system ensures thorough and even mixing, resulting in well-developed gluten and evenly textured bread.
Attachments and accessories for the Sunbeam Mixmaster are available, allowing you to expand its functionality. However, the range may be more limited compared to some other brands. Nevertheless, the Sunbeam’s affordable price, reliability, and solid performance make it a popular choice for beginner bakers or those on a budget.
Customer reviews for the Sunbeam Mixmaster are largely positive, with users praising its affordability, reliability, and performance in basic baking tasks. Many customers appreciate its compact size and ease of use, making it a great option for those with limited countertop space.
Breville Scraper Mixer Pro
The Breville Scraper Mixer Pro is a high-end option that offers excellent performance and innovative features. With a powerful 550-watt motor and a 5-quart bowl capacity, it provides ample power and space for most baking needs. The Breville mixer’s sleek design and advanced features make it a top choice for those who value both form and function.
When it comes to dough mixing, the Breville Scraper Mixer Pro delivers outstanding results. Its unique Scraper Beater attachment ensures that the sides of the bowl are constantly scraped, providing thorough and even mixing. The mixer comes with a dough hook, a flat beater, and a wire whip as well, offering versatility for various recipes.
Attachments and accessories for the Breville Scraper Mixer Pro are available, allowing you to expand its functionality. From pasta rollers to slicers, there is a range of options to suit different culinary needs.
Customer reviews for the Breville Scraper Mixer Pro are highly positive, with users praising its performance, innovative features, and ease of use. Many customers appreciate its ability to handle various tasks with precision and efficiency, making it a top choice for serious home bakers.
Smeg Stand Mixer
The Smeg Stand Mixer is a stylish and retro-inspired option that combines aesthetics with performance. With a powerful 800-watt motor and a 5-quart bowl capacity, it offers ample power and space for most baking needs. The Smeg mixer’s iconic design and vibrant colors make it a statement piece in any kitchen.
In terms of performance, the Smeg Stand Mixer excels in dough mixing. Its planetary mixing action ensures thorough and consistent mixing, resulting in well-developed gluten and perfectly textured bread. The mixer comes with a dough hook, a flat beater, and a wire whip, providing versatility for various recipes.
Attachments and accessories for the Smeg Stand Mixer are available, allowing you to enhance its functionality. From pasta rollers to slicers, there is a range of options to suit different culinary needs.
Customer reviews for the Smeg Stand Mixer are generally positive, with users praising its performance, beautiful design, and ease of use. Many customers appreciate its ability to handle various tasks while adding a touch of retro charm to their kitchens.
In conclusion, choosing the right stand mixer for artisan bread making is a personal decision based on individual needs and preferences. All of the stand mixers reviewed in this article offer excellent performance and features that can elevate your bread baking experience. Whether you prioritize power, durability, versatility, or affordability, there is a stand mixer for every baker. Take the time to consider your specific requirements and use this comprehensive review as a guide to find the perfect stand mixer for your artisan bread making journey. Happy baking!
