Kneading bread dough by hand can be a workout. A stand mixer does the heavy lifting, giving you smooth, elastic dough in minutes. I tested mixers for power, bowl size, and dough-hook performance to see which ones rise to the occasion. Here are the 5 best stand mixers for bread of 2025—all available on Amazon U.S.
KitchenAid Artisan Series 5-Quart Stand Mixer
- Power: 325 watts
- Bowl: 5-quart stainless steel
- Speeds: 10 variable
Why I like it: A classic that handles most bread recipes with ease. Compact enough for everyday use but strong enough for consistent doughs.
KitchenAid Professional 600 Series Bowl-Lift Mixer
- Power: 575 watts
- Bowl: 6-quart stainless steel
- Design: Bowl-lift for stability
Why I like it: Heavy-duty, made for serious bread bakers. Handles multiple loaves or dense doughs without strain.
Ankarsrum Original Stand Mixer
- Power: 600 watts
- Bowl: 7.4-quart stainless steel
- Origin: Made in Sweden
Why I like it: A bread-baking beast. Unique roller and scraper design kneads dough gently and efficiently. Top pick for artisan bakers.
Cuisinart Precision Master 5.5-Quart Stand Mixer
- Power: 500 watts
- Bowl: 5.5-quart stainless steel
- Speeds: 12 settings
Why I like it: Affordable alternative to KitchenAid with surprising power. Good for everyday bread bakers.
Hamilton Beach Electric Stand Mixer
- Power: 300 watts
- Bowl: 4-quart stainless steel
- Speeds: 7 variable
Why I like it: Budget-friendly and compact. Great starter mixer if you bake bread occasionally.
Buying Guide – How to Choose the Right Stand Mixer for Bread
- Power: At least 300 watts for basic bread, 500+ for heavy doughs.
- Bowl capacity: 5-quart bowls handle one loaf; 6–7 quarts fit multiple batches.
- Design: Tilt-head mixers are easier to use; bowl-lift mixers are more stable for heavy doughs.
- Budget: Entry-level models are under $200; pro-grade mixers can cost $600+.
Quick Comparison
| Mixer | Best For |
|---|---|
| KitchenAid Artisan | Best all-rounder for home bakers |
| KitchenAid Pro 600 | Best for heavy doughs |
| Ankarsrum Original | Best for artisan bakers |
| Cuisinart Precision Master | Best budget-friendly power |
| Hamilton Beach Stand Mixer | Best entry-level option |
FAQs
How many watts should a stand mixer have for bread?
At least 300 watts works for light bread, but 500+ watts is recommended for regular, heavy kneading.
Is a tilt-head or bowl-lift mixer better for bread?
Tilt-head mixers are easier to use and clean, but bowl-lift models offer more stability and strength for dense bread doughs.
Do all stand mixers come with a dough hook?
Most modern mixers include a dough hook along with a flat beater and whisk. Always check the product listing before buying.
The Bottom Line
If you want a reliable everyday mixer, the KitchenAid Artisan is the sweet spot. Serious bread bakers should upgrade to the KitchenAid Pro 600 or Ankarsrum Original. On a budget? The Hamilton Beach and Cuisinart Precision Master deliver surprising value.