For passionate bakers, the quest for the perfect kitchen tools is never-ending. A stand mixer is arguably one of the most important investments, and the Ankarsrum Assistent Original has become a name synonymous with quality and durability. But does its reputation hold up when it comes to baking cakes? Let’s delve into the specifics of the Ankarsrum and examine its capabilities for creating delicious cakes.
Understanding the Ankarsrum Assistent Original
The Ankarsrum is more than just a stand mixer; it’s a versatile kitchen machine that can handle a wide array of tasks, from kneading bread dough to grinding meat. Its unique design sets it apart from traditional stand mixers like KitchenAid. Instead of a tilting head and stationary bowl, the Ankarsrum features a rotating bowl and a stationary arm with attachments.
This design has several implications for its performance, especially when baking cakes. The open bowl design allows for easy addition of ingredients, and the scraper attachment ensures that everything is evenly incorporated.
Key Features of the Ankarsrum Mixer
The Ankarsrum boasts a powerful motor, typically around 600 watts, which allows it to handle heavy doughs with ease. Its stepless speed control gives bakers precise control over the mixing process. The large stainless steel bowl, with a capacity of around 7 liters, is more than adequate for most cake recipes.
The machine comes with a variety of attachments, including a dough hook, roller, scraper, whisk, and a double beater, each designed for specific tasks. For cake baking, the whisk and double beater are the most relevant.
How the Ankarsrum Differs from Traditional Stand Mixers
The rotating bowl design is the most significant difference. In a KitchenAid, the bowl is stationary, and the beater rotates around the bowl. In the Ankarsrum, the bowl rotates, and the attachment stays in one place. This difference affects how ingredients are mixed and how the machine handles different types of batters.
The Ankarsrum’s motor is located underneath the bowl, contributing to its stability. The open bowl design also makes it easier to monitor the mixing process and add ingredients gradually.
Ankarsrum’s Performance with Cake Batters
Now, let’s address the central question: how well does the Ankarsrum perform when making cakes? The answer is nuanced and depends on the specific type of cake and the techniques used.
Mixing Light and Airy Cake Batters
For cakes that require a light and airy texture, such as angel food cake or sponge cake, the Ankarsrum can be a suitable choice, but it requires careful attention. The whisk attachment is designed to incorporate air into the batter, which is crucial for these types of cakes.
However, some users find that the Ankarsrum’s whisk doesn’t aerate the batter as efficiently as a KitchenAid’s whisk, particularly for smaller batches. It’s important to avoid overmixing, as this can lead to a tough cake.
Mixing Creamed Cakes
Creamed cakes, like butter cakes and pound cakes, rely on creaming together butter and sugar to create a light and fluffy base. The Ankarsrum can perform well with these types of cakes, but it’s important to use the correct attachment and technique.
The double beater attachment is ideal for creaming butter and sugar. The scraper attachment ensures that the mixture is thoroughly combined and that no ingredients are left stuck to the sides of the bowl.
Handling Dense Cake Batters
For dense cake batters, such as those used for fruitcakes or some chocolate cakes, the Ankarsrum excels. Its powerful motor can handle heavy batters without straining.
The double beater can effectively mix the ingredients without bogging down. The Ankarsrum’s stability is also a benefit when dealing with dense batters, as it prevents the machine from wobbling or shaking.
Challenges and Considerations
Despite its strengths, the Ankarsrum does present some challenges for cake baking. One common complaint is that it can be difficult to mix small batches of batter effectively. The large bowl and stationary attachment may not reach all the ingredients, resulting in uneven mixing.
Another consideration is the learning curve. The Ankarsrum’s unique design requires some adjustment for bakers accustomed to traditional stand mixers. It may take some experimentation to find the right speeds and techniques for different cake recipes.
Tips for Baking Cakes with the Ankarsrum
If you’re planning to use your Ankarsrum for cake baking, here are some tips to help you achieve the best results:
- Use the Correct Attachment: For creaming butter and sugar, use the double beater. For aerating batters, use the whisk. The scraper should be used in conjunction to ensure even mixing.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can lead to tough cakes. Mix until the ingredients are just combined.
- Adjust the Speed: Use the stepless speed control to adjust the speed as needed. Start on low and gradually increase the speed as the ingredients come together.
- Scrape the Bowl: The scraper attachment helps, but it’s still a good idea to occasionally stop the mixer and scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula to ensure that all ingredients are incorporated.
- Consider Batch Size: If you’re making a small batch of batter, consider using a smaller bowl or adjusting the recipe to increase the quantity.
- Experiment and Learn: Every mixer is different, so don’t be afraid to experiment and learn what works best for your Ankarsrum.
Comparing Ankarsrum to Other Stand Mixers for Cake Baking
How does the Ankarsrum stack up against other popular stand mixers, such as KitchenAid? KitchenAid mixers are known for their versatility and wide range of attachments. They are also generally easier to use for small batches of batter.
However, the Ankarsrum offers several advantages. Its powerful motor and large bowl make it well-suited for heavy doughs and large batches. Its stability is also a plus when dealing with dense batters.
Here’s a comparison of the two mixers:
| Feature | Ankarsrum Assistent Original | KitchenAid Stand Mixer |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Rotating bowl, stationary attachment | Stationary bowl, rotating attachment |
| Motor Power | 600 watts (approx.) | Varies (250-575 watts) |
| Bowl Capacity | 7 liters (approx.) | 4.5-7 liters (approx.) |
| Best For | Heavy doughs, large batches | Versatile, small to medium batches |
| Cake Baking | Good, requires technique adjustment | Excellent, generally easier to use |
Ultimately, the best stand mixer for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you frequently bake large batches of cakes or work with heavy doughs, the Ankarsrum may be a good choice. If you primarily bake smaller batches and value versatility, a KitchenAid mixer may be a better fit.
Conclusion: Is the Ankarsrum Good for Cakes?
The Ankarsrum Assistent Original is a capable machine that can be used to bake a wide variety of cakes. While it may require some adjustments in technique compared to traditional stand mixers, its power and stability make it a worthwhile investment for serious bakers.
Its strengths lie in handling dense batters and large batches, while its weaknesses may be apparent when mixing small quantities of light and airy batters. By understanding its capabilities and limitations, and by using the correct attachments and techniques, you can successfully bake delicious cakes with your Ankarsrum.
Is the Ankarsrum Assistent Original suitable for making cake batter, especially delicate cakes?
The Ankarsrum excels at mixing cake batter due to its unique design. Its bowl-driven operation and powerful motor ensure that ingredients are thoroughly combined without overmixing, which is crucial for delicate cakes like chiffon or angel food. The large capacity of the bowl allows for making large batches, while the variable speed settings offer precision, allowing bakers to gently incorporate air for lightness or efficiently blend heavier batters.
For particularly delicate cakes, the included accessories such as the roller and scraper are invaluable. They gently fold ingredients together, preventing the gluten development that can lead to tough cakes. Moreover, the machine’s ability to handle large volumes of ingredients consistently delivers uniform results, minimizing the risk of inconsistencies in texture and rise, thereby ensuring successful and evenly baked cakes.
How does the Ankarsrum compare to other stand mixers, like KitchenAid, for baking cakes?
Compared to traditional stand mixers like KitchenAid, the Ankarsrum offers a different mixing experience. KitchenAid mixers typically have the motor in the head and the attachment spins within a stationary bowl. Conversely, the Ankarsrum has the motor in the base and the bowl rotates, moving the ingredients against a stationary attachment. This design is generally better for handling larger quantities of dough and preventing the motor from overheating.
However, for small batches of cake batter, the KitchenAid might be more convenient. The Ankarsrum’s bowl, while spacious, can sometimes make it challenging to mix small volumes of ingredients effectively, especially if they are not enough to reach the mixing attachment. Both mixers offer excellent results, but the Ankarsrum’s design is arguably better suited for large baking projects and heavier batters.
What are the best Ankarsrum attachments to use for different types of cake batter?
For most standard cake batters like vanilla or chocolate, the roller and scraper attachment is ideal. It efficiently combines wet and dry ingredients while minimizing gluten development, resulting in tender and moist cakes. The dough hook is not usually recommended for cake batters as it’s designed for heavier doughs and could easily overmix the batter, leading to a tough cake.
For lighter cake batters like angel food or chiffon, the balloon whisks (often called multi-wire whisks) are essential. These attachments incorporate a significant amount of air into the batter, creating the necessary volume and lightness. Regardless of the attachment used, it’s crucial to monitor the batter closely and avoid overmixing to achieve the desired texture and consistency.
Can the Ankarsrum handle stiff cake batters, such as those for fruitcakes or pound cakes?
Yes, the Ankarsrum excels at handling stiff cake batters, including those for fruitcakes and pound cakes. Its powerful motor and robust construction allow it to effortlessly mix dense ingredients like dried fruits, nuts, and butter without straining. The bowl’s large capacity is particularly beneficial when working with substantial quantities of ingredients required for these types of cakes.
The roller and scraper attachments work effectively to combine the heavy ingredients evenly. The adjustable speed settings allow for precise control, ensuring that the batter is mixed thoroughly but not overmixed. Its ability to handle these batters without overheating or struggling makes the Ankarsrum a reliable choice for baking dense and flavorful cakes.
Is it easy to clean the Ankarsrum Assistent Original after making cake batter?
Cleaning the Ankarsrum after making cake batter is generally straightforward. The stainless steel bowl is dishwasher safe, making it easy to remove batter residue. The attachments, such as the roller, scraper, and whisks, can also be washed in the dishwasher, although handwashing may be preferable for delicate parts to prolong their lifespan.
The machine’s design, with the motor located in the base, prevents batter from getting into hard-to-reach areas. A quick wipe down of the base with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove any splashes or spills. Overall, the ease of cleaning contributes to the convenience and usability of the Ankarsrum for cake baking.
Does the Ankarsrum offer any specific benefits for gluten-free cake baking?
The Ankarsrum can be particularly beneficial for gluten-free cake baking. Gluten-free flours often require different mixing techniques compared to wheat-based flours, and the Ankarsrum’s gentle mixing action helps prevent overmixing, which can lead to tough or gummy gluten-free cakes. The scraper attachment is especially useful for ensuring all ingredients are evenly incorporated without excessive handling.
Furthermore, the Ankarsrum’s ability to handle a variety of batter consistencies is advantageous for gluten-free baking, as recipes can vary significantly in terms of hydration and ingredients. The precision speed control allows bakers to tailor the mixing process to the specific needs of each gluten-free recipe, resulting in improved texture and overall baking success.
Are there any disadvantages to using the Ankarsrum for cake baking?
While the Ankarsrum is excellent for cake baking, there are a few potential disadvantages. Its bowl design, while beneficial for large batches, can be less effective for mixing very small quantities of batter, as the ingredients might not reach the attachment easily. This can be a limitation for bakers who frequently make single-layer cakes or smaller batches.
Another potential drawback is the price. The Ankarsrum is a premium appliance and represents a significant investment compared to other stand mixers. While its durability and versatility can justify the cost for serious bakers, it might not be the most practical option for those who only occasionally bake cakes. Its larger footprint could also be a disadvantage if you have limited counter space.