What You Need to Know

The stand mixer market is a crowded one, with options ranging from budget-friendly models that offer basic functionality to premium machines packed with advanced features. The Kitchen in the Box Stand Mixer, sitting firmly in the mid-range category, stands out by combining a compact design with versatile features that make it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced bakers. Whether you're looking to fit your kitchen equipment into a small space or are simply drawn to the aesthetic appeal of a beautifully designed appliance, this mixer offers a compelling solution.

Designed for those with limited storage or who value a minimalist kitchen, the Kitchen in the Box Stand Mixer is less than 7 pounds and measures just 12.9 by 7 by 10.2 inches, making it a breeze to store away when not in use. With multiple color options available, it can be a stylish addition to any countertop, whether you prefer a classic white or a more vibrant shade that complements your kitchen decor. The mixer is well-suited for those living in apartments or small homes, where space is at a premium.

Under the Hood

Under the hood, the Kitchen in the Box Stand Mixer packs a surprising amount of power and functionality into its compact form. The 3.2-quart stainless steel bowl is more than enough for small to medium-sized batches, ideal for new bakers, couples, or families of two. The tilt-head design is a standout feature, allowing easy access to install and remove the bowl and various attachments. This design not only simplifies the process of cleaning but also enhances the user experience by ensuring the mixer remains stable and secure during operation.

The mixer offers six different speed settings, which are crucial for handling various baking needs. From the gentle stirring of delicate batters to the vigorous mixing of dense doughs, these speed options ensure that the mixer can handle a wide range of tasks. Additionally, the four anti-slip suckers on the base of the mixer provide excellent stability, preventing any unwanted movement or bouncing during operation.

What's Inside

Features Breakdown

• Compact Design and Multiple Colors: The mixer's dimensions and color options make it a practical and stylish addition to any kitchen. It's easy to store and can fit neatly into even the smallest spaces.
• 3.2-Quart Capacity and Tilt-Head Design: The large capacity bowl and tilt-head design simplify the mixing process and make cleaning a breeze. The transparent anti-splash lid adds an extra layer of convenience by preventing spills and messes.
• 6 Speeds and 4 Anti-Slip Suckers: The six different speed settings cater to a variety of baking needs, from gentle stirring to vigorous mixing. The four anti-slip suckers ensure the mixer remains stable, even when working with heavy doughs.
• Upgraded Multi Attachments: The mixer comes with an aluminum dough hook, flat beater, and stainless steel whisk, all made from high-quality materials that are both durable and easy to clean. The gasket at the top joint prevents food residue from splashing, making cleaning even easier.

Performance

In real-world use, the Kitchen in the Box Stand Mixer performs admirably. The six-speed settings are versatile enough to handle everything from making fluffy meringues to kneading dense bread dough. The tilt-head design makes it easy to add ingredients or switch attachments mid-process, and the transparent anti-splash lid keeps the mess to a minimum. The four anti-slip suckers ensure stability, which is particularly important when working with heavier doughs.

Real-World Examples

I tested the mixer by baking a batch of cookies and kneading bread dough. The flat beater did an excellent job of incorporating air into the cookie batter, resulting in light and airy cookies. The dough hook handled the bread dough effortlessly, kneading it to the perfect consistency without causing any mess. The tilt-head design made it easy to add flour or other ingredients without having to lift the entire mixer.

Highs and Lows

Why We Like It:

1. Compact and Multi-Functional: The compact design makes it ideal for small kitchens and spaces. The multiple color options add an aesthetic appeal that can complement any kitchen.
2. Versatile Speed Settings: The six different speed settings cater to a wide range of baking needs, from gentle stirring to vigorous mixing.
3. Stable and Easy to Use: The four anti-slip suckers provide excellent stability, and the tilt-head design simplifies the mixing process.
4. Durable Attachments: The attachments are made from high-quality materials that are both durable and easy to clean.

The Not-So-Good:

1. Limited Attachment Variety: While the included attachments are versatile, the mixer lacks some of the more advanced attachments found on premium models.
2. Moderate Noise Level: At higher speeds, the mixer can be a bit noisy, which might be a consideration for those in shared spaces.

Best For

Perfect For:

1. New Bakers and Couples: The compact size and multiple color options make it ideal for those just starting to bake or couples looking for a compact appliance.
2. Small Kitchen Enthusiasts: Those with limited kitchen space will find this mixer perfectly suited to their needs.
3. Gift-Givers: The aesthetic appeal of the mixer makes it a great gift for family members or friends who love to cook or bake.

Skip If:

1. Professional Bakers: If you need a professional-grade mixer with a wider range of attachments and higher power, this model might not be sufficient.
2. Those Seeking Advanced Features: If you require more advanced features such as a larger bowl or more attachments, a premium model would be a better choice.

Conclusion

The Kitchen in the Box Stand Mixer is a well-designed and versatile stand mixer that offers a lot of value for its mid-range price point. Its compact size and multiple color options make it a practical addition to any kitchen, whether you're a beginner baker or someone who values a beautifully designed appliance. While it may not have all the bells and whistles found in premium models, it excels in providing a solid performance for a wide range of baking tasks. If you're looking for a reliable and stylish stand mixer that won't take up too much space, the Kitchen in the Box Stand Mixer is definitely worth considering.