I have baked for the past 15 years, and at one point, I was making a new cake every weekend without fail, so I understand just how game-changing a new stand mixer can be.
That is why I am so excited about SMEG's newest launch, specifically their new Forte Stand Mixer, available at Williams Sonoma. With a new, powerful motor designed to make kneading even the toughest doughs as easy as whipping meringue, and reimagined accessories to ensure not an inch of the bowl is left unmixed, it is rising to the occasion as a candidate for one of the best stand mixers.
Here’s why I can’t wait to try it in my own kitchen, and why it’s an appliance every home baker should consider, whether it’s your first stand mixer or a long-overdue upgrade.
The SMEG Stand Mixer Every Baker's Kitchen Needs
Available in Pastel Green (pictured), Cream, Pastel Blue, Red, Pink, White, and Black, the Forte stand mixer is designed for power and precision, tackling more intensive mixing more easily, working both everyday recipes and heavier doughs smoothly.
When choosing kitchen appliances, finding the right stand mixer can be surprisingly difficult. These workhorse machines are the sous chef of your kitchen. Beyond mixing and kneading, with the right accessories, they can grind meat, churn ice cream, slice and grate vegetables, roll fresh pasta, and more. Selecting the right model can make cooking and baking a breeze, saving your time and effort daily.
The newest SMEG Forte stand mixer keeps this essential role in mind and provides a direct-drive motor that can tackle even the toughest of tasks, such as kneading dense doughs with ease. What's more, the head movement is designed to mimic the natural motion of hand kneading for more consistent results.
No longer will I have to constantly stop other tasks to hold the stand mixer still while it struggles against gluten development, either, with enhanced 'Steady-Mix' stability, integrated to reduce vibrations so the machine doesn't shift during use.
The accessories are really where you get the most out of your stand mixer, and SMEG has considered these, too.
The new Forte mixer is compatible with all the existing add-ons, such as the Multi-Grinder Attachment, SMEG Pasta Roller, and Ice Cream Maker, all available at Amazon.
What's more, they have also redesigned the classic dough hook, with a C-shape hook that actively pushes dough off the sides of the stainless steel bowl for a more even mix. Similarly, the redesigned flat-edge beater prevents stuck ingredients at the edges of the bowl.
The mixer comes with a wire whisk, flat beater, dough hook, flex edge beater, and a Tritan™ Renew pouring shield as standard, so you can get baking straight out of the box. I cannot wait to try it out myself.
What to Shop
I’ve accumulated quite a collection of baking essentials over the years, with two full cabinets dedicated entirely to the hobby, so I have an in-depth understanding of what makes for a well-functioning baking space.
I’ve curated six considered picks to help you outfit your kitchen with both practicality and style in mind.
All prices were correct at the time of publication.
SMEG has launched the Classico stand mixer alongside the Forte. This model, with its lower price point, still comes with the 10-speed settings and smooth start function, but without as much power for tough doughs. It is better suited to the casual home baker than the baking aficionado.
For the more occasional baker who works with smaller batches less frequently, a hand mixer more than suffices. The SMEG hand mixer still has that retro-style, with an ergonomic handle for easy use and control.
Baking is a precision art, so you will need precision tools for the best results. These retro weigh scales have a digital display for accurate readings.
The Signature Oval Bread Oven is designed with a low-profile base with raised ridges for even browning, while the domed lid is specially designed to trap and circulate steam to create a crisp artisanal crust, excellent flavor, and maximum rise. It's available in a range of shades, including 'Nectar' yellow, 'Peche' pink, and 'Olive' green.
Food-grade silicone makes for some of the best hand tools for baking. Batters do not stick as easily, and you can use the soft edges for scraping the sides of bowls and pans without damage. I wouldn't bake without this non-toxic essential.
The original bakeware set from Caraway includes a large handled baking sheet, a medium baking sheet, a rectangular pan, a 12-hole muffin pan, a square pan, a loaf pan, a circular pan, a large cooling rack, and two storage organizers.
Not sure which baking appliance will suit your routine best? We have compared hand mixers vs stand mixers so you can make the right decision for your kitchen.
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