Cuisinart Hand Mixer (Cool Grey, 9-Speed) Review and Buy Guide
Estimated reading time: 8 minutes
Key Takeaways
- Reliable everyday performer — this Cuisinart hand mixer balances torque and control for most home baking tasks.
- Nine speeds give you gradual ramping from folding to whipping for better consistency.
- Compact storage with included case and cord wrap reduces clutter in small kitchens.
- Not a replacement for a stand mixer when tackling large bread doughs — use it for small batches and finishing work.
Table of contents
Why this model matters
Home cooks value speed, consistency, and low-friction cleanup. The Cuisinart hand mixer provides nine speeds for finer control, a robust motor for thicker batters, and clever storage options that keep your counter tidy. Those small details add up to faster prep and less time on cleanup.
Three core reasons to consider this mixer
- Control — nine speeds let you ramp gently from folding to high-speed whipping.
- Power — a high-torque motor that moves thicker batters with fewer stalls.
- Usability — ergonomic handle, single-button eject, and compact storage case.
Key specifications and what they mean
| Feature | Detail | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Speeds | 9 | Fine control from folding to whipping |
| Motor | High torque, model-grade for domestic use | Less strain on motor when mixing dense dough |
| Attachments | Beaters, dough hooks, storage case | Versatility and neat storage |
| Weight | Light to medium | Comfort over extended mixing sessions |
| Finish | Cool Grey | Neutral look fits modern kitchens |
Performance in use
Whipping and aeration
The mixer efficiently incorporates air into cream and egg whites. Use mid to high speeds to reach stable peaks; the nine-speed ramp helps you avoid splatter and overbeating. Results are consistent for meringues and frosting.
Mixing batters
Light batters mix evenly at low speeds. Thicker batters respond to higher speeds without overheating — fewer lumps and shorter mix times than budget models.
Dough handling
The included dough hooks cope with small dough batches (biscuits, rolls). For larger bread doughs, a stand mixer is preferable — reserve hand mixing for recipes under ~500 grams of flour.
See alternatives like the MURENKING Tilt-Head for other design preferences.
Ergonomics and controls
The handle balances above the motor for a steady feel. The speed dial sits within thumb reach, and the eject mechanism releases attachments with one press — that keeps interruptions minimal and handling safe.
Build quality and materials
Metal beaters resist bending and the housing uses durable plastic with a soft matte finish. Buttons feel tactile and the cord stores neatly in a built-in wrap. With basic care expect years of reliable use.
Cleaning and maintenance
- Detach beaters before washing.
- Wash attachments in warm soapy water or place on the top rack of the dishwasher.
- Wipe the body with a damp cloth; do not submerge the motor assembly.
Comparison with competitors
Below is a focused comparison against common alternatives, showing where this model wins and where it loses ground.
| Model | Strengths | Weaknesses |
|---|---|---|
| Cuisinart HM-90 (this model) | Strong motor, nine speeds, storage case | Not ideal for large bread dough |
| Budget hand mixer | Lower price | Lower torque, fewer speeds, less durable beaters |
| Stand mixer (entry-level) | Handles large dough, hands-free operation | Higher cost, larger footprint |
Use cases and buyer profiles
- Home baker — cakes, cookies, and frosting for family; improved consistency and speed.
- Small kitchen — compact shape and case reduce clutter.
- Part-time bread maker — suitable for small doughs; for heavy kneading choose a stand mixer.
Common user questions
Is this model durable?
Yes — the motor’s high torque reduces strain and metal beaters maintain shape across many uses. Proper care (avoiding overload and regular cleaning) extends lifespan.
Are replacement parts available?
Yes — Cuisinart lists replacement beaters and hooks, and major retailers often stock parts. Keep your model number when searching.
Is the noise level acceptable?
Noise increases with speed. Low to mid speeds are moderate; top speeds are louder, comparable to other high-speed hand mixers.
Real test examples
Example 1 — whipping 2 cups heavy cream: soft peak ~90 seconds at speed 6; stiff peak ~3 minutes at speed 8. Result: smooth texture, minimal overbeating.
Example 2 — cookie dough (1 cup butter, 1 cup sugar, 2 cups flour): cream 2 minutes at speed 4, then 1 minute at speed 3 when adding flour. Result: uniform dough ready to bake.
Example 3 — small pizza dough (300 g flour): mix with dough hooks at speed 2 for ~4 minutes; finishes with a short manual knead.
Pros and cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
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Price and value
Priced between budget hand mixers and entry-level stand mixers, this model’s value comes from motor strength, controls, and storage. For frequent small-to-medium mixing tasks it saves time and improves consistency.
Short tips for best results
- Start at low speed to combine ingredients and increase stepwise for even mixing.
- Monitor peaks to avoid overbeating when whipping cream or egg whites.
- Use dough hooks only for small batches and short mixes.
- Store attachments in the included case to prevent loss.
Verdict
If you want a dependable hand mixer for frequent baking, this Cuisinart model performs well. It balances power and control, outperforming cheaper mixers in torque and durability, but it does not replace a stand mixer for heavy doughs.
Actionable next steps
Evaluate your typical recipes. For cakes, cookies, and small doughs this model is a strong choice. For weekly large-loaf baking, opt for a stand mixer instead.
Want a direct purchase link? Use the button below to check current price, stock, and warranty terms.
Final point, choose tools that match your recipes and frequency. This mixer speeds small batches and simplifies cleanup.
Other models to compare:
FAQ
Is this model durable?
Yes — built with a high-torque motor and metal beaters. Proper care (avoid overloading and regular cleaning) keeps it reliable.
Are replacement parts available?
Yes — replacement beaters, hooks, and some parts are sold through Cuisinart and major retailers. Keep your model number for accurate searches.
How noisy is it?
Noise increases with speed. Expect moderate noise at low to mid speeds and louder output at top speed similar to other high-speed hand mixers.
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