Consumer Corner

The holiday season is upon us. Thanksgiving is this week and Christmas is only 4 weeks away. For many of our readers it’s time for baking – the baking of cookies, cake and pie fillings. To get that smooth consistency is a useful tool.

Here are some ideas for that new hand mixer:

• Sunbeam Heritage Series 2551: this mixer had unmatched versatility. Why? The mixer comes with more than just a beater. There are whisks and dough hooks plus a stainless steel bowl and cover. The mixer also has a “burst of power” button that can cut through dough. Cost: $35.00

• Hamilton Beach 6 Speed Hand-mixer 62695V: this is an easy-to-store mixer. It has a case that snaps into the mixer and holds the cord and attachments. Now you never have to search the drawers looking for the beaters. They are neatly stored.

• Kitchen Aid 7 Speed, KHM7200B: a stylish, professional mixer with power. Although stylish, its power is more than its beauty. This mixer can be used for mashing potatoes to egg whites. The LCD controls are clear and easy to read. Cost $80.00

• Cusinart Power Advantage 7 speed HM-70: this mixer is a comfort for all. With its swivel cord a rightie or leftie can feel comfortable in using the mixer. Also the beaters are easy to clean. Cost $50.00

• Kitchen Aid 5 Speed Ultra Power-KHM5A POB: this is a great mixer for the home baker. It is quiet, speedy and efficient. It can mix dough or whip up cream in no time. The mixer has a powerful motor and yet is designed to operate quietly. Nice to “hear” that. Cost $50.00

Ideas for you to think about when using your new mixer:

-For your mashed potatoes try using sour cream and garlic. Very tasty.

-Cookies make great gifts and you and your children can have a fun day baking the cookies. Teach your children the fine art of baking at an early age.

-Add whipped cream to your pumpkin pie.

-Mixers are great for making cake mixes from the grocery shelves or try one of your family’s great, traditional recipes.

The ideas are endless. Enjoy your new mixer and mix up new recipes.