Commercial Mixers Which One is Right for Your Bakery?

As a professional baker, having the right equipment can make all the difference in your production process. One of the most essential tools in a bakery is a commercial mixer. But with so many options available on the market, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about commercial mixers to help you make an informed decision.

Who Uses Commercial Mixers and Why?

A commercial mixer is an essential piece of equipment for any bakery, pastry shop, or restaurant that produces baked goods in large quantities. These mixers are designed to handle heavy-duty tasks such as mixing dough, batter, and other ingredients quickly and efficiently. They save time and effort compared to manual mixing, allowing bakers to produce more finished products in less time.

Benefits:

• Saves time and labor
• Increases productivity
• Consistent mixing results
• Can handle large quantities of ingredients

Commercial mixers are powerful machines that are specifically designed for use in commercial kitchens. They are typically larger, heavier, and more durable than home mixers and come in various sizes and styles. There are three main types of commercial mixers: planetary mixers, spiral mixers, and vertical cutter mixers.

Planetary Mixers

Planetary mixers are the most commonly used type of commercial mixer. They have a stationary bowl and a beater that rotates around the bowl while also spinning on its own axis. This dual motion ensures that ingredients are mixed thoroughly and evenly. Planetary mixers are versatile and can handle a wide range of tasks, including mixing dough, batter, and whipped cream.

Spiral Mixers

Spiral mixers are designed specifically for mixing dough. They have a spiral-shaped agitator that kneads the dough by rolling it against the bowl. This method of mixing is gentler on the dough than other types of mixers, resulting in a better texture and rise. Spiral mixers are often used in bakeries that specialize in bread and other yeast-based products.

Vertical Cutter Mixers

Vertical cutter mixers are heavy-duty machines that can handle a variety of tasks, including mixing dough, pureeing fruits and vegetables, and grinding meat. They have a bowl that rotates while a cutting blade or paddle spins vertically to chop and mix ingredients. Vertical cutter mixers are ideal for large-scale food production and are commonly used in commercial kitchens and food processing plants.

When Should You Use a Commercial Mixer?

Commercial mixers are designed to handle heavy-duty tasks quickly and efficiently. They are ideal for use in any bakery or restaurant that produces baked goods in large quantities. Here are some situations where a commercial mixer would be useful:

• Mixing large batches of dough or batter
• Consistently producing high-quality baked goods
• Saving time and labor in the production process
• Handling specialty ingredients such as nuts, dried fruits, and chocolate chips

How to Choose the Right Commercial Mixer

Choosing the right commercial mixer for your bakery requires careful consideration of several factors, including the size of your operation, the types of products you produce, and your budget. Here are some key factors to consider when selecting a commercial mixer:

1. Capacity: Consider the amount of dough or batter you need to mix at one time and choose a mixer with a bowl capacity that meets your needs.

2. Power: Look for a mixer with a powerful motor that can handle heavy-duty mixing tasks.

3. Speeds: Choose a mixer with multiple speed settings to accommodate different types of ingredients and mixing tasks.

4. Accessories: Consider the types of attachments that come with the mixer and whether they can be easily swapped out.

5. Durability: Look for a mixer that is made of high-quality materials and built to withstand heavy use.

Pros and Cons of Commercial Mixers

As with any piece of equipment, commercial mixers have their advantages and disadvantages. Here are some pros and cons to consider:

Pros

• Saves time and labor
• Increases productivity
• Consistent mixing results
• Can handle large quantities of ingredients
• Versatile and can handle a wide range of tasks

Cons

• Expensive upfront cost
• Heavy and bulky, takes up space in the kitchen
• Requires regular maintenance and cleaning
• Can be noisy during operation

Alternatives to Commercial Mixers

While commercial mixers are the ideal choice for many bakeries, there are alternatives that may be suitable for smaller operations or those on a tighter budget. Here are some alternatives to consider:

1. Stand mixers: These mixers are smaller than commercial mixers but can still handle heavy-duty tasks. They are often used in home kitchens and small bakeries.

2. Food processors: While not specifically designed for mixing dough, food processors can be used to knead dough and mix other ingredients. They are versatile and can handle a variety of tasks, including slicing, shredding, and pureeing.

3. Hand mixers: Hand mixers are lightweight and portable, making them ideal for small-scale mixing tasks or occasional use.

4. Manual mixing: While not as efficient as using a mixer, manual mixing can still produce high-quality results for smaller batches of dough or batter.

Step-by-Step Guide to Using a Commercial Mixer

Using a commercial mixer requires proper setup and technique to ensure the best results. Here is a step-by-step guide to using a commercial mixer:

1. Choose the appropriate attachment for the task. For example, use the dough hook for kneading dough or the whisk for whipping cream.

2. Attach the bowl to the mixer and add the ingredients.

3. Turn the mixer on and select the appropriate speed setting.

4. Allow the mixer to run for the recommended amount of time or until the ingredients are fully mixed.

5. Turn off the mixer and remove the bowl from the stand.

6. Remove the attachment and clean it thoroughly before using it again.

Comparison of Commercial Mixers

To help you choose the right commercial mixer for your bakery, here is a comparison of three popular models:

1. Hobart N50 Commercial Mixer: This versatile mixer has a 5-quart capacity and comes with three attachments: a flat beater, wire whip, and dough hook. It has three speed settings and a powerful motor that can handle heavy-duty mixing tasks.

2. Globe SP8 Commercial Mixer: This spiral mixer is designed specifically for mixing dough and comes in two sizes: 8-quart and 30-quart. It has two speed settings and a reliable belt-driven transmission.

3. Robot Coupe R40 Vertical Cutter Mixer: This heavy-duty machine can handle a variety of tasks, including mixing dough, pureeing fruits and vegetables, and grinding meat. It has a 39-quart capacity and a powerful motor that can handle even the toughest ingredients.

Tips for Using a Commercial Mixer

Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your commercial mixer:

1. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for setup, operation, and cleaning.

2. Use the appropriate attachment for the task at hand.

3. Start the mixer on a low speed and gradually increase it as needed.

4. Scrape down the sides of the bowl periodically to ensure thorough mixing.

5. Clean the mixer and attachments thoroughly after each use to prevent cross-contamination.

The Best Commercial Mixers in 2023

Here are our top picks for the best commercial mixers in 2023:

1. Hobart Legacy HL662 Commercial Mixer: This large-capacity mixer has a 60-quart bowl and a powerful motor that can handle heavy-duty tasks. It comes with four attachments and has variable speed settings for precise control.

2. Globe SP62P Commercial Planetary Mixer: This versatile mixer has a 60-quart capacity and comes with three attachments: a flat beater, wire whip, and dough hook. It has variable speed settings and a reliable gear-driven transmission.

3. Thunderbird ARM-60/80 Commercial Planetary Mixer: This durable mixer has a 60 or 80-quart capacity and comes with a variety of attachments, including a spiral dough hook and a wire whip. It has variable speed settings and a powerful motor that can handle even the toughest ingredients.

FAQs

1. Can I use a home mixer for commercial purposes?

No, home mixers are not designed to handle heavy-duty tasks and can quickly wear out when used for commercial purposes. It is best to invest in a commercial mixer for your bakery or restaurant.

2. What are the main differences between planetary and spiral mixers?

Planetary mixers have a stationary bowl and a rotating beater while spiral mixers have a spiral-shaped agitator that kneads the dough by rolling it against the bowl. Spiral mixers are designed specifically for mixing dough and are gentler on the dough than planetary mixers.

3. How often should I clean my commercial mixer?

You should clean your mixer thoroughly after each use to prevent cross-contamination and ensure proper sanitation.

4. Can I use different attachments on my mixer?

Yes, most commercial mixers come with a variety of attachments that can be easily swapped out depending on the task at hand.

5. What is the warranty on a commercial mixer?

The warranty varies depending on the manufacturer and model of the mixer. Be sure to check the warranty information before making a purchase.

Conclusion

Choosing the right commercial mixer for your bakery or restaurant is an important decision. By considering factors such as capacity, power, and accessories, you can find a mixer that meets your specific needs. Whether you choose a planetary, spiral, or vertical cutter mixer, using a commercial mixer can save time and labor while producing consistent, high-quality results.