Mixing Tips
Converting Your Recipe for the Mixer
The mixing instructions for recipes in this book can guide you in converting your own favorite recipes for preparation with your KitchenAid® stand mixer. Look for recipes similar to yours and then adapt your recipes to use the procedures in the similar KitchenAid recipes.
For example, the “quick mix” method (sometimes referred to as the “dump” method) is ideal for simple cakes, such as the Quick Yellow Cake and Easy White Cake included in this book. This method calls for combining dry ingredients with most or all liquid ingredients in one step.
More elaborate cakes, such as Caramel Walnut Banana Torte, should be prepared using the traditional cake mixing method. With this method, sugar and the shortening, butter or margarine are thoroughly mixed (creamed) before other ingredients are added.
For all cakes, mixing times may change because your KitchenAid® stand mixer works more quickly than other mixers. In general, mixing a cake with the KitchenAid® stand mixer will take about half the time called for in most cake recipes.
To help determine the ideal mixing time, observe the batter or dough and mix only until it has the desired appearance described in your recipe, such as “smooth and creamy.”
To select the best mixing speeds, use the Speed Control Guide.
Adding Ingredients
Always add ingredients as close to side of bowl as possible, not directly into moving beater. The Pouring Shield can be used to simplify adding ingredients.
NOTE: If ingredients in very bottom of bowl are not thoroughly mixed, then the beater is not far enough into the bowl. See “Beater to Bowl Clearance“ section.
Cake Mixes
When preparing packaged cake mixes, use Speed 2 for low speed, Speed 4 for medium speed, and Speed 6 for high speed. For best results, mix for the time stated on the package directions.
Adding Nuts, Raisins or
Candied Fruits
Follow individual recipes for guidelines on including these ingredients. In general, solid materials should be folded in the last few seconds of mixing on Stir Speed. The batter should be thick enough to keep the fruit or nuts from sinking to the bottom of the pan during baking. Sticky fruits should be dusted with flour for better distribution in the batter.
Liquid Mixtures
Mixtures containing large amounts of liquid ingredients should be mixed at lower speeds to avoid splashing. Increase speed only after mixture has thickened.
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