While I often turn to my giant stand mixer or blender when cooking in the kitchen, it’s the hand blender I find the most invaluable. Blending simple batters for pancakes or waffles, making aioli, beating egg whites, and puréeing soups are all done in place and without much effort. Here are our 10 favorite hand mixers from immersion blenders to the classic double beater mixer.
![with midcentury appeal, the smeg hand mixer includes 9 speed control and comes 17](https://media.remodelista.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/smeg-hand-mixer-white-733x489.jpg)
![the all clad cordless rechargeable immersion blender is convenient without the 18](https://media.remodelista.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/all-clad-cordless-rechargeable-immersion-blender-733x489.jpg)
![the cuisinart power advantage 9 speed hand mixer is designed to be compact and 19](https://media.remodelista.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/cuisinart-9-speed-hand-mixer-733x489.jpg)
![the kitchenaid white variable speed immersion blender is simple and gets the jo 20](https://media.remodelista.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/kitchenaid-white-variable-speed-corded-immersion-blender-733x489.jpg)
![the heavy duty dualit classic professional hand mixer features four speed selec 21](https://media.remodelista.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/dualit-classic-professional-hand-mixer-733x489.jpg)
![the vitamix immersion blender features five variable speeds and a scratch resis 22](https://media.remodelista.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/vitamix-immersion-blender-733x489.jpg)
![the kitchenaid 6 speed hand mixer has 6 speeds and what they call \2\20; 23](https://media.remodelista.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/kitchenaid-6-speed-hand-mixer-733x489.jpg)
![the cuisinart smart stick two speed hand blender is a reliable standby (i&# 24](https://media.remodelista.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/cuisinart-smart-stick-two-speed-hand-blender.jpg)
![the smeg hand blender features variable speeds and a turbo function, along with 25](https://media.remodelista.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/smeg-hand-blender-black-733x489.jpg)
![the breville handy mix scraper 9 speed hand mixer comes in 5 colors and has an 26](https://media.remodelista.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/breville-handy-mix-scraper-9-speed-hand-mixer-733x489.jpg)
![the all clad immersion blender is a more simplified version of the cordless opt 27](https://media.remodelista.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/all-clad-immersion-blender-733x489.jpg)
As for other kitchen appliances, see our picks:
- 10 Easy Pieces: The Best Blenders
- 10 Easy Pieces: Compact Countertop Appliances
- 10 Easy Pieces: Juicers
- 10 Easy Pieces: Kitchen Stand Mixers
Frequently asked questions
What are hand mixers and immersion blenders used for?
Hand mixers and immersion blenders are used for various baking and cooking tasks. Hand mixers are commonly used for beating and mixing ingredients together, while immersion blenders are used for pureeing soups, sauces, and other liquids.
Can hand mixers be used for kneading dough?
Most hand mixers are not designed for kneading dough. They are better suited for lighter tasks like blending cake batter or whipping cream. For kneading dough, it is recommended to use a stand mixer or do it by hand.
Are hand mixers and immersion blenders dishwasher safe?
It depends on the specific model. Some hand mixers and immersion blenders come with detachable parts that are dishwasher safe, while others may require hand washing. Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions for proper cleaning guidelines.
What are the advantages of using an immersion blender over a traditional blender?
Immersion blenders offer several advantages over traditional blenders. They are more compact and easier to handle, allowing for greater control and maneuverability when blending. Additionally, immersion blenders can be used directly in the cooking pot or container, eliminating the need for transferring hot liquids.
Can immersion blenders be used for crushing ice?
While immersion blenders are excellent for blending and pureeing, they are not specifically designed for crushing ice. Attempting to crush ice with an immersion blender may damage the motor or blades. It is recommended to use a countertop blender or a dedicated ice crusher for this purpose.
Are hand mixers and immersion blenders expensive?
Hand mixers and immersion blenders are available in a wide range of prices. Basic models can be quite affordable, while more advanced or professional-grade options may be more expensive. It is advisable to research and compare different models to find one that suits your budget and needs.
What safety precautions should be followed when using hand mixers or immersion blenders?
When using hand mixers or immersion blenders, it is important to ensure that they are unplugged before attaching or detaching any parts. When cleaning, always make sure the device is turned off and unplugged. Keep fingers, utensils, and other objects away from moving blades to avoid injury.
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