What Kind of Mixers Do Bakeries Use?

Bakeries use a variety of different equipment to keep up with their orders. One of the most important pieces of machinery is a mixer. So what kind of mixers do bakeries use? Learn more below.

Types of Mixers

There’s a wide variety of stand and countertop mixers available to choose from, so how do you know which is right for your business? Check out the different types of commercial mixers bakeries use below:

• Dough Mixer - Dough mixers, or spiral mixers, are common in bakeries. These have a stationary spiral agitator that the bowl rotates around. This allows the dough to be folded more efficiently. It’s also great for whipping and kneading.
• Vertical Cutter Mixer - This option sports a covered mixing bowl because of the high horsepower motor. Using this mixer, you can knead tougher dough for pastries and more.
• Planetary Mixer - Opposite the dough mixer, the planetary options rotate an offset shaft inside of the stationary bowl to whip and mix ingredients properly. This smaller, countertop machine is best for frosting, cookies and dough.

Standard vs. Heavy-Duty Mixer

What you need in a mixer will depend on what you’re baking. Take into consideration your recipes as well as your business needs to see which of these options will be most helpful.

Standard Mixer - A standard mixer is best for making dough in-house, whipping cream and mixing batters thoroughly. If you’re making smaller batches of light and airy desserts, then a standard option will be just enough.

Heavy-Duty Mixer - For a more high-volume cafe or bakery, a heavy-duty mixer will come in handy. This type of mixer is great for pastry dough, pie dough and thicker batters.

Commercial Mixer Attachments

To get the most out of your new mixer, you’ll need the right attachments. So how can you choose? Here’s a variety of options available and what they can do:

• Wire Whip - This is the most common attachment and it’s used for whipping cream, frosting and egg whites by incorporating air into the mixture.
• Flat Beater - Flat beaters are best for batter, cookie dough and frosting.
• Dough Hook - If you’re baking something heavier like a bread dough then a dough hook is what you need. This hook mimics a kneading motion to beat the air out of the thicker dough.
• Pastry Knife - Using this attachment will better blend flour with fats. This means a smoother pastry or pie dough.

Check out our blog to learn more about how to start an online bakery about unique dessert recipes and much more after you decide which mixer is right for you.