Looks like we’re going to be picking up a Kitchenaid Mixer this year. Until recently I didn’t realize that they’d created some new models so now there’s the Professional (probably not for us), the Classic, the Artisan, and the Artisan Mini. We don’t bake that often but I think we would do so more with the mixer. We’re always borrowing one from a neighbor when we need one now.
Our kitchen is pretty short on counter space so it would probably have to live above the cabinets which is a bit of a pain. The Mini seems a nice fit but I’m concerned that the bowl is just too small to be practical when we need it. I think the Artisan or Classic would be the best fit but aside from vastly more color choices is there any reason to go with the Artisan?
Any must have attachments? My wife said she’s interested in making pasta - is that worth the effort?
Do you think you’re going to use it to grind meat or any of the other heavy workload attachments? Are you using it to make multiple batches of stiff bread dough? If you’re just mixing up cakes and cookies go with a lower wattage model but my theory is to buy one step up from what you think you’ll use it for.
The Classic has a 250 watt motor; the Mini and Artisan have a 325 watt motor. No plans to grind meat but I’ve been told that the mixers are excellent for pulling pork/chicken after cooking in the slow cooker.
I think you can’t go wrong with any of them. If you can find a “bundle”, some of the attachments are absolutely amazing and they fit all models (although possibly not the mini- I don’t know anything about that one) Mine’s still going strong, and was bought back when white was the only offered color.
By some weird quirk in ordering/processing/shipping sequence, I ended up with the Professional for a very reasonable price and I love it!!
You say it will have to live above the cupboards? You probably already know this, but the Kitchenaids are very heavy.
Since I only have one three-prong outlet in my kitchen, I bought a kitchen cart with wheels to put it on and just roll it up to the counter when I need to use it.
If they still offer the options of either a hinged/tilt head or a fixed head, I always liked the fixed head (the kind where you lift the bowl to the beater). One reason is the above mentioned weight of the damned things. Having the fixed head makes them easier to move around (if you’re like me and might forget to lock it).
Just a quick nod for any model that is KitchenAid or Hobart.
I still use my grandmothers K45 introduced in 1962. It is a workhorse and has only required new brushes for the motor and the greats to be repacked with grease.
The third party option (the one with the little blue fin things) does a better job than the KA version.
The above advice to buy one step up from what you think you need is good advice. Look through the recipes that you want to make with the mixer and see what you’ll need. Buy one size bigger. If you are going to make bread at all, don’t get the mini.
Just putting in a word for my Bosch. It’s lighter than a KitchenAid, will mix and knead 8 loaves of bread without complaint. There are two different bowl styles - one with a center shaft, which is smaller, but still big enough for almost anything you do, and the stainless steel bowl without the shaft drive. It’s much lighter and easier to move. I love my Bosches.
BTW, we bought the 5 quart Artisan in Red, looks great on the counter. We’re making whoopie pies tonight, more cookies and bread this weekend. So far so good.
