Getting to Know Your Ankarsrum Stand Mixer
The Ankarsrum Assistent Original is not a typical stand mixer. Its design, technique, and capabilities set it apart, and understanding how it works will help you get far more from it. Whether you are new to Ankarsrum or have owned one for a while, this guide will walk you through what makes it special and how to use it with confidence.
A Mixer With a Long History
Ankarsrum mixers have been made in Sweden since 1940. For many years, the machine was sold under the Electrolux name before becoming the Ankarsrum Assistent Original in 2008. The name comes from the village of Ankarsrum in Småland, where the machine was originally manufactured.
Today, every Ankarsrum mixer is still assembled by hand in Sweden. This heritage shows in the build quality, durability, and thoughtful engineering that have made the machine popular with home bakers and professionals alike.
Understanding the Unique Mixing Technique
One of the first things you will notice about your Ankarsrum is that it works differently from most stand mixers. Instead of the tool rotating inside a fixed bowl, the bowl itself rotates.
The rotating bowl works together with either a dough roller or a dough hook to knead and mix ingredients. This method gently develops gluten, improves dough structure, and allows the mixer to handle both small and very large batches with ease.
When to Use the Dough Roller
The dough roller is ideal for most dough types, including:
- Bun and roll doughs
- Cookie dough
- Firmer and lower hydration doughs
- Doughs that contain butter
It provides excellent control and is often the best starting point for everyday baking.
When to Use the Dough Hook
The dough hook is best suited to:
- Higher hydration doughs
- Very large batches
- Loose bread doughs
It is particularly useful when working close to the mixer’s maximum capacity.
Power Where It Matters
The Ankarsrum Assistent is fitted with a powerful 1500-watt motor. Rather than relying on brute force alone, the mixer uses smart speed regulation to automatically adjust power so it runs evenly even under heavy load.
This allows it to mix up to 5 kg of dough smoothly and consistently, without struggling or overheating. It is equally comfortable mixing small batches, which makes it a versatile choice for everyday use.
Designed for Stability and Quiet Operation
Unlike many stand mixers, the Ankarsrum’s motor and gearbox are positioned at the bottom of the machine. This gives it a low centre of gravity, making it extremely stable on the worktop, even when mixing at full capacity.
This construction also contributes to quieter operation. Compared with many similar mixers, Ankarsrum runs more quietly, making it suitable for early morning or evening baking without disturbing others.
Making the Most of the Bowl Capacity
Your Ankarsrum comes with two main bowls, each designed for different tasks.
The stainless steel bowl has a 7 litre capacity and can hold up to 5 kg of dough. This is ideal for bread baking, batch cooking, and entertaining, but it also handles smaller quantities just as well.
The beater bowl has a 3.5 litre capacity and is designed for whisking and lighter mixtures. It allows you to whisk anything from two egg whites up to around twenty egg whites for meringues, making it just as useful for cakes and desserts as it is for baking.
Simple Controls and Easy Handling
Using an Ankarsrum is straightforward once you understand the layout. The open bowl design makes it easy to add ingredients while mixing and allows you to see and feel the dough as it develops.
Controls include:
- On and off operation with a timer
- Stepless speed control for precise adjustment
- An adjustable arm to fine-tune how the tool works against the bowl
This simplicity gives you more control over the mixing process and helps build confidence, especially for beginners.
More Than Just a Mixer
One of the biggest advantages of owning an Ankarsrum is its multifunctional design. With the right accessories, it can do far more than mix dough.
Depending on the attachment, the machine can bake, whisk, blend, mince, grate, press, rasp, roll pasta, and more. The mixer can be used standing upright or lying on its side, depending on the accessory, and includes a dedicated drive output specifically for the blender.
This flexibility means your Ankarsrum can grow with you over time as your cooking interests expand.
Built to Last and Designed to Last Longer
Every Ankarsrum mixer is individually tested before leaving the factory, and the drive system is covered by a 7-year warranty.
Accessories sold today remain compatible with older Ankarsrum and even Electrolux machines. This commitment to compatibility gives the product an exceptionally long lifespan and supports a more sustainable approach to kitchen appliances.
A Mixer That Fits Your Kitchen
Ankarsrum mixers are available in a wide range of colours and finishes, including glossy, matte, and metallic options. This makes it easy to choose a machine that suits both your cooking style and your kitchen design.
Final Thoughts
The Ankarsrum Assistent Original is a powerful, thoughtfully engineered kitchen machine that rewards understanding and use. By learning how its unique technique works and taking advantage of its capacity, stability, and accessories, you can get consistently better results and enjoy the process along the way.
It is not just a stand mixer, but a long-term kitchen companion designed to support everything from everyday baking to ambitious projects.