Table of Contents

• Commercial Mixers
• Planetary Mixers
• Spiral Dough Mixers
• Countertop Mixers

FAQ
Commercial Mixers

Commercial mixers are designed to mix, knead, whip and blend various ingredients rapidly all while maintaining quality and consistency. Due to their versatile nature, commercial mixers can be a staple for bakeries, restaurants, pizzerias, cafeterias, and catering businesses. There are various types of mixers that will be covered in this article- such as planetary mixers, spiral mixers and countertop mixers. Each different type of mixer is tailored to assist with specific tasks and kitchen needs. It’s important to understand your kitchen’s unique needs, so that you can choose the best mixer to compliment your kitchen’s daily tasks.

Planetary Mixers

Planetary mixers are highly versatile, multi-purpose units suitable for mixing dough, batter, whipped cream, meringue, sauces, and more. Named for their planetary mixing motion—where attachments rotate around the bowl—these mixers ensure even, thorough mixing.

Example Planetary Mixer
The Hobart Legacy HL200 Planetary Mixer is renowned for its powerful ½ HP motor, variable-speed transmission, programmable digital timer, and robust stainless steel construction. Its versatility and reliability are unmatched in commercial kitchens.

Common Planetary Mixer
The KitchenAid Commercial KSM8990DP 8-Quart Mixer is widely popular for its balance of affordability, power, compact design, and reliability. Ideal for smaller restaurants, cafés, and bakeries, it delivers consistent results across diverse mixing tasks.

Example Planetary Mixers by Restaurant Types

• Bakery/Pastry Shop: Hobart HL300 series, ideal for dough, batters, and creams.
• Pizza Restaurant: Globe SP20 planetary mixer, robust enough for regular dough production.
• Café/Coffee Shop: KitchenAid Commercial KSM8990DP, compact yet powerful for smaller batches.
• Catering Operations: Vollrath 40760 planetary mixer, versatile and reliable for various preparations.

Budget-Based Recommendations for Ghost Kitchens

• High Budget ($7,000–$10,000)1: Hobart Legacy HL200, premium build, high-volume and precise mixing.
• Medium Budget ($3,000–$5,500)1: Globe SP20, reliable mid-range planetary mixer.
• Low Budget ($600–$1,500)1: KitchenAid Commercial KSM8990DP, affordable and efficient for smaller batches.

Buying Considerations:

• Evaluate bowl capacity and motor horsepower based on typical batch sizes and ingredient density.
• Look for mixers with multiple speed settings and interchangeable attachments for versatile usage.
• Consider models with safety guards and bowl lifts for user safety and ease of operation.

Spiral Dough Mixers

Spiral mixers specialize in kneading dough for breads, pizzas, bagels, and other yeast-raised products. These mixers feature a stationary bowl and a spiral hook rotating within it, gently kneading dough without overheating or overworking it, creating consistent results ideal for commercial bakeries and pizzerias.

Example Spiral Mixer
The Doyon AEF035 Spiral Mixer is well known for its sturdy construction, efficient spiral hook kneading action, powerful motor, and reliable dough consistency. Ideal for artisan bakeries and pizzerias requiring high-quality dough output.

Common Spiral Mixer
The Eurodib LM40T Spiral Dough Mixer is popular for its affordability, reliable kneading action, straightforward controls, and robust build, making it a favorite among medium-sized bakeries and pizza shops.

Example Spiral Mixers by Restaurant Types

• Artisan Bakery: Doyon AEF035, gentle kneading perfect for artisan breads.
• Pizza Restaurant: Globe GSM130 spiral mixer, ideal for high-volume pizza dough production.
• Bagel Shop: Univex SL50 spiral mixer, powerful motor handles dense dough easily.

Budget-Based Recommendations for Ghost Kitchens

• High Budget ($10,000–$27,888)1: Doyon AEF050, large capacity and premium performance.
• Medium Budget ($5,000–$8,500)2: Eurodib LM40T, excellent price-performance balance.
• Low Budget ($2,500–$4,000)1: Omcan MX-CN-0020 spiral mixer, affordable and reliable dough kneading.

Maintenance Tip:
Regularly lubricate moving components, clean dough bowls thoroughly, and inspect drive belts to maintain optimal performance and extend mixer life.

Countertop Mixers

Countertop mixers are compact, smaller-capacity mixers ideal for kitchens with limited space or lower-volume mixing requirements. These powerful, efficient mixers offer flexibility and convenience in cafés, small bakeries, food trucks, and catering operations.

Example Countertop Mixer
The Waring WSM7Q 7-Quart Countertop Mixer receives outstanding reviews for its compact size, powerful motor, sturdy stainless steel bowl, and intuitive controls. Ideal for small-batch mixing in cafés and bakeries.

Common Countertop Mixer
The KitchenAid Commercial KSMC895DP 8-Quart Mixer is common for its affordability, compact footprint, reliability, and versatility, making it perfect for small operations and catering businesses.

Example Countertop Mixers by Restaurant Types

• Coffee Shop/Café: KitchenAid Commercial KSMC895DP, compact, easy to use, and reliable.
• Food Truck/Concession Stand: Vollrath 40755 countertop mixer, simple operation and compact design.
• Small Bakery: Waring WSM7Q, ideal for pastries, dough, and creams.

Budget-Based Recommendations for Ghost Kitchens

• High Budget ($10,000–$14,500)3: Vollrath 40760 countertop planetary mixer, robust and precise.
• Medium Budget ($1,000–$1,500)1: KitchenAid Commercial KSMC895DP, reliable and versatile for moderate use.
• Low Budget ($500–$1,000)1: Waring WSM7Q, affordable, compact, and ideal for entry-level kitchens.

Operational Tip:
Choose countertop mixers with multiple attachments (whisk, dough hook, paddle) to maximize versatility and menu flexibility.

FAQs About Commercial Mixers

What size commercial mixer do I need?

• Match mixer size to your largest typical batch. Smaller establishments often use mixers between 5–20 quarts, while larger bakeries and pizzerias require mixers ranging from 30–100+ quarts.

How do I maintain my commercial mixer?

• Regularly clean bowls and attachments, inspect and lubricate moving parts, check belts and motors for wear, and schedule routine professional maintenance.
• If your mixer feels like it is straining, this is not a good sign. Deconstruct the parts and search for any crevices or corners where leftover foods can get stuck. Make sure to grease the appropriate parts. 

[1]KaTom Restaurant Equipment

[2] Webstaurant Store

[3] Eleven36

DISCLAIMER: This information is provided for general informational purposes only and the content does not constitute an endorsement. CloudKitchens does not warrant the accuracy or completeness of any information, text, images/graphics, links, or other content contained within the content. We recommend that you consult with financial, legal, and business professionals for advice specific to your situation.