KitchenAid's Enduring Legacy

For decades, KitchenAid stand mixers have been a cornerstone in kitchens worldwide, celebrated for their classic design and lasting quality. The brand has become synonymous with tradition, often featured on wedding registries and passed down through generations.

“KitchenAid has always been about reliability and inspiration,” shares chef and author Danielle Sepsy. “I still remember getting my first stand mixer from my Grandma Rosemarie when I was 8. It opened up a whole world of experimentation and truly shaped who I am today.”

Introducing the KitchenAid Artisan Plus Stand Mixer

KitchenAid describes the Artisan Plus as the most significant upgrade to its stand mixer since 1955. It retains the beloved qualities of the original – durability, aesthetics, and ease of use – while introducing several key improvements.

Key Features of the Artisan Plus

  • Built-in Bowl Light: Illuminates the mixing bowl for perfect consistency, even in low light.
  • Precision Speed Control: Allows for sliding between preset speeds for more precise control.
  • Half-Fold Speed: Ideal for delicate recipes requiring a gentle touch.

Testers appreciated the bowl light and precision speed control, noting the mixer’s ease of use. The new double flex edge beater seamlessly scrapes the bowl, eliminating the need for manual stopping and scraping.

Expert Picks: Best KitchenAid Products

Stand Mixer Sizes

Danielle Sepsy suggests the seven-quart version for frequent bakers and those experimenting with recipes. For casual bakers or smaller kitchens, a five-quart version may be more suitable.

“The stand mixer is iconic because it can do so much,” Sepsy adds. “From mixing batter to kneading dough, whipping cream, or making pasta, it’s like having multiple tools in one.”

Tilt-Head vs. Bowl-Lift

Chef Michael Handal recommends the bowl-lift mixer for frequent dough kneading, citing its increased power and stability. He personally uses a Bowl-Lift Stand Mixer in his own kitchen.

Essential Attachments

Experts recommend several attachments:

  • Wire Whip: For fluffy whipped cream, egg whites, and light frostings.
  • Flexible Beater: For scraping every bit of batter from the bowl.
  • Ice Cream Maker: For homemade, freshly churned ice cream.
  • Pasta Attachments: For easily preparing fresh pasta dough.

Beyond the Mixer: Other Popular KitchenAid Products

Editors also praise KitchenAid’s hand mixer for its slim design, easy cleaning, and lightweight maneuverability. The immersion blender is lauded for its convenience in pulsing soups and sauces directly in the pot.

Why KitchenAid Remains a Favorite

“KitchenAid is definitely an iconic brand with many devoted followers,” says Handal, attributing its popularity to excellent value for the cost. Chad Ries, global head of product at KitchenAid, emphasizes the brand’s commitment to “Quality and durability…that is the underpinning of everything that we do.”

Ries highlights the emotional connection people have with KitchenAid products, linking them to cherished memories and family traditions. “KitchenAid isn’t just about making durable products that look great…it’s also about the memories that you have associated with it.”

Is a KitchenAid Stand Mixer Worth the Investment?

Despite the higher price point, experts agree that a KitchenAid stand mixer is a worthwhile investment. Sepsy notes it’s “an investment in both quality and inspiration,” while Handal points to their proven performance in professional kitchens. Many owners, like Sepsy, continue to use their KitchenAid mixers for decades.