The KitchenAid Design Series Evergreen Stand Mixer has redefined kitchen aesthetics with its unique design that blends traditional style with modern functionality. This mixer’s standout feature is its wooden bowl, offering a natural, rustic look that complements any kitchen decor. However, while it shines in design, there are some functional nuances to be aware of, especially for avid bakers. Here’s an in-depth look at what makes this mixer a hit, and where it may need a bit more polish.

KitchenAid Evergreen Stand Mixer Features:

Elegant Design with a Wooden Twist

The KitchenAid Evergreen mixer boasts a beautiful green finish and a walnut wood bowl that immediately catches the eye. The mixer has been designed for those who want to add a touch of elegance to their countertop, without compromising on the sturdy build and functionality that KitchenAid is known for. The wooden bowl adds a unique, warm touch, standing out in a world dominated by metal and plastic kitchen appliances.

Performance & Usability

From kneading dough to whipping cream, the mixer is versatile and handles a range of tasks with ease. The 7-quart wooden bowl offers ample space for larger batches of dough, making it a great companion for bakers who love experimenting with different recipes. However, one of the significant points to note is that the bowl requires careful maintenance. The wood must be treated regularly with food-safe mineral oil or wood polish to prevent drying and cracking. This means bakers must be cautious about soaking or washing the bowl extensively, as prolonged exposure to moisture may damage it.

Another aspect to consider is the lack of a handle on the wooden bowl, which can make removing and transferring mixtures slightly cumbersome. Despite this, the mixer itself provides robust performance, from beating thick bread dough to delicate tasks like whipping meringue.

Baking Experience

For everyday recipes, the mixer performs excellently. It can handle standard cookie dough, cake batters, and bread mixes with ease. However, those attempting whipped egg creations or soufflés should be aware of potential issues with oil residue on the bowl affecting the stiff peaks needed for such recipes. KitchenAid recommends using the mixer’s traditional stainless-steel bowl for these specific tasks to avoid any hindrance during the baking process.

Key Pros:

• Elegant design with a warm, natural aesthetic
• Versatile performance for various baking tasks
• Large 7-quart capacity suitable for bigger batches

Key Cons:

• Requires regular maintenance to preserve the wood
• Not ideal for recipes needing oil-free mixing environments
• Wooden bowl does not have a handle, limiting ease of use

Maintenance & Care Tips

The wooden bowl, while stunning, requires a bit more attention than the traditional steel versions. Here are some care tips to maintain its beauty:

1. Regularly Oil the Bowl: Use food-safe mineral oil, walnut oil, or wood polish to maintain the wooden surface.
2. Avoid Prolonged Exposure to Water: After each use, wash and dry the bowl immediately to prevent cracking or swelling.
3. Store Properly: Keep the bowl in a dry environment, away from areas with excessive moisture.

Verdict

The KitchenAid Design Series Evergreen Stand Mixer is an excellent choice for those who want more than just a kitchen appliance. It adds style and warmth to your kitchen, making it an attractive and functional addition. While it may not be perfect for all types of recipes, its design and performance make it a worthy investment for regular bakers who can appreciate and maintain its aesthetic features.