The Ultimate Guide To Immersion Blenders: Cook’s Illustrated’s Indepth Review

Immersion blenders have become indispensable tools in any home kitchen, offering convenience, versatility, and space-saving benefits. With their ability to puree, blend, and emulsify ingredients right in the pot or container, they eliminate the need for messy transfers and bulky countertop appliances.

To help you find the best immersion blender for your culinary adventures, we’ve scoured the market and consulted the experts at Cook’s Illustrated, a renowned culinary publication known for its rigorous testing and unbiased reviews. In this comprehensive immersion blender review, we’ll share their top picks and provide an in-depth analysis of their performance and features.

Best Overall: Breville Control Grip Immersion Blender

Cook’s Illustrated’s top choice for the best overall immersion blender is the Breville Control Grip Immersion Blender. This powerful and versatile appliance boasts a 280-watt motor, 12 variable speeds, and a large capacity 2-cup blending jar. Its ergonomic handle provides a comfortable grip, while the bell-shaped base ensures thorough blending without splashing.

Best Value: Braun MultiQuick 5 Vario Immersion Blender

For those seeking an affordable and high-performing immersion blender, the Braun MultiQuick 5 Vario Immersion Blender is an excellent choice. With its 750-watt motor and variable speed control, this blender can handle a wide range of blending tasks with ease. It comes with a 20-ounce beaker, a whisk attachment, and a masher attachment, providing added versatility.

Most Powerful: Cuisinart Smart Stick 2-Speed Immersion Blender

If power is your priority, the Cuisinart Smart Stick 2-Speed Immersion Blender is the one for you. Its robust 300-watt motor delivers exceptional blending performance, making it ideal for heavy-duty tasks such as crushing ice or pureeing tough ingredients. The two-speed control allows you to adjust the speed for different blending needs.

Best for Soups and Sauces: KitchenAid KHB2351CU 5-Speed Immersion Blender

For smooth and creamy soups and sauces, look no further than the KitchenAid KHB2351CU 5-Speed Immersion Blender. Its 5-speed control provides precise blending, while the bell-shaped base with anti-splash guard prevents splatters. The included whisk attachment is perfect for whipping up dressings and sauces.

Best for Smoothies: Ninja Professional Immersion Blender

Smoothie enthusiasts will appreciate the Ninja Professional Immersion Blender. Its 700-watt motor and innovative blade design create perfectly blended smoothies with minimal effort. The included 16-ounce cup is ideal for single-serving smoothies, and the easy-to-use controls make blending a breeze.

Best for Versatility: Hamilton Beach Power Elite Immersion Blender

The Hamilton Beach Power Elite Immersion Blender is a versatile tool that can handle a variety of tasks, from blending soups to chopping vegetables. Its 600-watt motor and 12 speeds provide ample power and control for different blending needs. The included accessories, such as a whisk attachment and a chopper bowl, expand its functionality.

Best for Ease of Use: KitchenAid KHB1231CU 2-Speed Immersion Blender

For those who prioritize ease of use, the KitchenAid KHB1231CU 2-Speed Immersion Blender is a great choice. Its simple two-speed control and comfortable handle make it easy to operate. The compact design and lightweight construction make it easy to store and handle.

In a nutshell: The Perfect Immersion Blender for Your Kitchen

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a culinary novice, an immersion blender can revolutionize your cooking experience. By carefully considering your needs and preferences, you can choose the perfect immersion blender from Cook’s Illustrated’s top picks. From the powerful Breville Control Grip to the budget-friendly Braun MultiQuick, there’s an immersion blender out there to meet every culinary need.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the advantages of using an immersion blender?

Immersion blenders offer several advantages over traditional countertop blenders, including:

• Convenience: Blending directly in the pot or container eliminates messy transfers.
• Compactness: Immersion blenders are much smaller and more space-saving than countertop blenders.
• Versatility: They can be used for a wide range of blending tasks, from pureeing soups to whipping cream.

2. What should I look for when choosing an immersion blender?

Consider the following factors when choosing an immersion blender:

• Power: Measured in watts, power affects the blender’s ability to handle different ingredients.
• Speed control: Variable speed control allows you to adjust the blending speed for different tasks.
• Attachments: Some immersion blenders come with additional attachments, such as whisk or chopper attachments, for added versatility.
• Ergonomics: A comfortable handle and lightweight construction are important for ease of use.

3. How do I maintain my immersion blender?

To keep your immersion blender in good condition:

• Clean it promptly: Rinse the blender head and attachments immediately after use.
• Wipe it dry: Dry the blender thoroughly to prevent rust.
• Store it properly: Store the blender in a dry place away from heat sources.