Cuisinart SM-55BK 5-1/2-Quart 12-Speed Stand Mixer

Cuisinart SM-55BC Stand Mixer – Full Review

The Cuisinart SM-55BC Stand Mixer is an efficient mixer that comes with an extra large mixing bowl and powerful motor. It has the capacity to handle myriads of culinary tasks and to make food prep easier and stress free.

From the heaviest dough mix to the fluffiest meringue; this stand mixer is equal to the task.  The Cuisinart SM-55BC Stand Mixer is manufactured with the busy homemaker or chef in mind. With this innovative appliance, you are able to whip up mouthwatering delicacies in no time.

Table of Contents

Why Buy A Stand Mixer? 

You may be thinking “I have a hand mixer, why do I need to invest in this stand mixer?  If so, you may have to take a detour.  Click here to read our article on the advantages of a stand mixer before continuing with this review.

You would get adequate information on the functions of a hand mixer versus that of a stand mixer. You’ll also appreciate the importance of having both if you can afford it.

This review of the Cuisinart SM-55BC Stand Mixer would not be complete if we don’t give you a sneak peek into the brand that’s behind the product.Cuisinart SM-55BC 5-1/2-Quart 12-Speed Stand Mixer, Brushed Chrome

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Brand Profile

Cuisinart  was founded by the late Carl Sontheimer in 1973. Its mission is to help all who use its products to savor the good life. The first product Cuisinart introduced to America was the food processor which was promoted by Julia Child and James Beard. These two couldn’t speak enough of how this food processor made a huge difference in food preparation.

Since then, Cuisinart has come up with a wide range of kitchen appliances that have revolutionized the culinary world.  It also prides itself in its innovative designs and commitment to culinary education.

Cuisinart has awareness that most customers are amateurs who need tips and resources to make their purchase worthwhile. For this reason, its products are accompanied by resources that turn these products into culinary powerhouses.

Included in these appliances are stand mixers, one of which is the Cuisinart SM-55BK Stand Mixer.

Let’s get back to the features of this innovative appliance…

Features of the Cuisinart SM-55BC Stand Mixer

Cuisinart SM-55BC 5-1/2-Quart 12-Speed Stand Mixer, Brushed Chrome

 

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Large Mixing Bowl with Handles

The Cuisinart SM-55BC Stand Mixer  comes with a large mixing bowl with a capacity of 5.5 quarts. The bowl is made of polished stainless steel and has the capacity for double or triple recipes.

Although this mixing bowl is over sized, the handles on both sides makes holding, scrapping and removing the bowl easier.

Cuisinart SM-55BK 5-1/2-Quart 12-Speed Stand Mixer, Black

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Powerful Motor

The motor of the Cuisinart SM-55BC Stand Mixer is strong and efficient 800 watt motor. This gives the unit the capacity to handle heavy tasks such as kneading heavy dough recipes.

12 Speed Options

The 12 speed settings range from the slow start to the fastest speed. The slow start function helps to prevent your ingredients from splattering all over when you start mixing.  For those delicate recipes that need extra care, there’s an ultra gentle fold feature in the speed options.

Tilt Back Head Design

This design allows user to easily reach the mixing bowl and the attachment hubs. There’s no complication to attaching the beaters that you want to use. All you have to do is tilt back the head of the mixer and attach the accessory or the mixing bowl. Same process goes for detaching the accessories.

Strong Long Lasting Material

The unit is made of strong die cast metal that lasts for a long time. The construction material is of top quality and gives the appliance the right weight that keeps it firmly weighted on the countertop when in use.

Attachments

There are three accessories that come with purchase of the Cuisinart SM-55BK Stand Mixer. They are one flat beater, one chef’s whisk and one dough hook.  Other attachments are available for the stand mixer but they are sold separately.

3 Power Outlets

This versatile stand mixer has three power outlets which work with the additional attachments that can be bought separately.

The High speed power outlet is meant for the food processor and blender attachments and it connects to the power outlet on top of the unit.

There is the mid speed power outlet that connects to the power outlet in front on top of the unit. This outlet is for the citrus juicer.

Finally the slow speed outlet connects to the power outlet at the back of the cover in front of the mixer head. This outlet is for the pasta maker and meat grinder attachments.

15- Minute Countdown Timer

This is a thoughtful feature that ensures that your ingredients would never be over mixed. What this means is that you can add your ingredients, set the timer and go about other chores. The timer would switch off the unit at the 15 minutes mark.Cuisinart SM-55BC 5-1/2-Quart 12-Speed Stand Mixer, Brushed Chrome

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Dishwasher Safe Attachments and Bowl

The attachments and mixing bowl of the Cuisinart SM-55BK Stand Mixer are dish washer safe. You are however advised to stack them on the top rack of the dishwasher.

Splash Shield With Pour Spout

This is a useful attachment that prevents your ingredients from splattering all over when mixing. The pour spout makes adding and pouring your ingredients mess free.

Auto Shut Off

The auto shut off is a safety measure that ensures that your appliance is not easily damaged by overheating.  This feature shuts down the unit if it becomes too heated.

Warranty

Included in the purchase of the Cuisinart SM-55BK Stand Mixer is a limited product warranty for 3 years and a full motor warranty for 5 years.

Recipe Book

In keeping with the Cuisnart tradition of culinary education, this product comes with a recipe book.

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Benefits of the Cuisinart SM-55BC Stand Mixer

With all the great features enumerated above, you can rest assured that users would get a lot of benefits from the Cuisinart SM-55BC Stand Mixer.

We would explore some of these benefits and they include the following: –

Ease of Use and Convenience

The Cuisinart SM-55BC Stand Mixer is easy to use because of some of these features

Tilt head design 

Makes access to mixing bowl easy. Attaching and detaching attachments is uncomplicated. All you have to do is tilt back the head of the mixer and attach or detach the accessory.

Dishwasher Safe Attachments and Bowls

Cleanup is a breeze when you have accessories that are dishwasher safe

15- Minutes Countdown Timer

There is no risk of over mixing your ingredients. The unit goes off once it goes for 15 minutes. This frees user from having to stand over whatever they are mixing. It also gives room for multitasking and getting other things done while prepping.

Handles on the Mixing Bowl

The handles on the mixing bowl makes it easy to lift, add ingredients, scrap the bowl and pour out ingredients.

Functionality and Versatility

The Cuisinart SM-55BK Mixer is not only functional but versatile. With this stand mixer you can make a wide range of recipes and bake almost any kind of goody.

The additional attachments mean you have a versatile tool that can be a juicer, a meat grinder, a paste maker, blender or more. When you buy this mixer, you are getting a culinary powerhouse. What’s more is it also  comes with a recipe booklet to help you enlarge your repertoire of dishes.

Mess Free Operation

The splash guard ensures that you can prepare your recipes with minimal mess. Just add your ingredients, cover the mixing bowl with the splash guard and start mixing.

Cuisinart SM-55BC 5-1/2-Quart 12-Speed Stand Mixer, Brushed Chrome

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Demerits of the Cuisinart SM-55BC Stand Mixer

The Motor is Too Loud

Due to the power of the motor, the unit tends to be loud. This makes it almost impossible to use at night because of its tendency to wake up the household.

Poor Quality Whisk Attachment

The whisk attachment is poorly made; the wires on the whisk do not last long before pulling off.

Replacement Parts are Not Readily Available

For a product of its caliber, it is disappointing that the Cuisinart SM-55BK Mixer does not have readily available replacement parts. What this means is that one has to hope dearly that no part is damaged or malfunctions. If this happens, it might render the appliance redundant.

On the other hand many buyers have had to pay exorbitant prices to get replacement parts. What with the initial cost of the mixer, this is not a welcome additional expense.

Customer’s Opinion of the Cuisinart SM-55BC Stand Mixer

Looking at various reviews of the Cuisinart SM-55BK Stand Mixer, a considerable percentage of customers have great things to say about it. However there are some customers who have not had pleasant experiences with their purchase.

Below are the positive and negative reviews of the Cuisinart SM-55BK Stand Mixer. We’ll also give you the reasons for these opinions.

Positive Reviews

Countdown Timer 

The 15- minute countdown timer is one feature that makes the Cuisinart SM-55BK Stand Mixer a great product. In the words of the customer “it is a life saver!

Durability 

This is a powerful and long lasting mixer. It has been in use for over 6 years and in those years has been used daily. The mixer has also been used for making multiple batches of candy over 6 times daily.
Another customer also testifies to having used the mixer for seven years.

Designed for Adaptability 

The clearance between the attachments and the mixing bowl is very adequate for adaptability. It allows user to make adjustments are required when using any of the attachments.

Great Mixing Bowl

The handles on the bowl is a big plus as it makes handling the mixing bowl a lot easier. Furthermore, the height and depth of the mixing bowl is great for making recipes that require whipping high volume ingredients.

Ease of Use 

This is “it” for anyone who makes bread frequently. The Cuisinart SM-55BK Stand Mixer makes baking bread a breeze.

Easy Cleanup 

The attachments are well designed and easy to clean. They do not require scrubbing because of the non stick coating on them; all you have to do is wash in warm soapy water after each use.

Negative Reviews

The Whisk Did Not Last For Long 

The whisk attachment keeps pulling apart and have had to be replaced more than twice. It is sad to have to spend $40 to $70 in replacing whisks for such an expensive stand mixer. The manufacturer should look into making whisks of a higher quality.

The Mixer is A Bit Wobbly 

The mixer jumps around a bit when used for mixing heavy dough recipes. This makes it dicey for one to leave unattended when in use.

One Power Switch For All Functions

When you switch on the unit, all the power outlets come on and start rotating; this contributes to the noise level of the unit. It would have been a perfect product if this unit was less noisy and only the power outlet in use rotates.

Tiny Numeral on Setting  Dial 

The numerals on the setting dial are too tiny. This makes it difficult for the user to see which speed the unit is being set to.

So…

Now that you have seen the benefits of the Cuisinart SM-55BK Mixer and read customer reviews are you sold on it? if yes click here to buy on Amazon now.

For those who would rather check out other options before making a decision, let’s consider the following alternatives:-

Alternatives to The Cuisinart SM-55BC Stand Mixer

 

Cheaper Option By The Same Brand

Cuisinart SM-50R Stand Mixer 

cheaper option for Cuisinart SM-55BK 5-1/2-Quart 12-Speed Stand Mixer, Black

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The Cuisinart SM-50R Stand Mixer is powered by a 500 watt motor and made with durable die cast metal.  It is a great alternative for those who love the efficiency of the Cuisinart brand but do not want to spend so much for the featured product.

This stand mixer is built with durability in mind and is capable of heavy duty tasks. The mixing bowl is 5.5 quarts and can be used to make batter for 60 cookies or mix six cups of dry ingredients. It is made of polished stainless steel and has handles that are easy to grip.

These handles make adding ingredients, scrapping the bowl and pouring out mixture a lot easier. Furthermore the splash shield with pouring spout makes for a mess-free operation.

Its tilt head design makes access to the mixing bowl and attaching and detaching the accessories easier.

The Cuisinart SM-50R Stand Mixer has almost all the features of the product in review but on a lower scale and at a cheaper rate. Howbeit, this doesn’t detract from its efficiency.

 

Cuisinart SM-50R 5.5-Quart Stand Mixer, Ruby Red

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Cheaper Option From Another Brand

Costway 5.3Qt Stand Mixer

COSTWAY Tilt-head Stand Mixer 5.3Qt 6-Speed 120V/800W Electric Food Mixer with Mixer Blade, Dough Hook, Whisk, Splash Guard, Stainless Steel Bowl(Black)

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Not sold on the Cuisinart brand? The Costway 5.3Qt Stand Mixer is another great alternative to consider.

This stylish and ergonomically designed stand mixer is a high performance appliance with an 800 watt motor. It has 6- speed setting that gives you the freedom to mix all types of recipes. You also get to prepare your meals in not time with minimal stress and mess.

The Costway 5.3Qt Stand Mixer comes with three attachments that ensure smooth and perfectly mixed ingredients at all times.  The transparent splash guard allows you to see how well your ingredients are mixing while preventing splatters from the mixing bowl.

The unit is designed with a tilt head and this makes for easy attachment and detachment of the beaters and mixing bowl. It also has non slip suction cups that hold the mixer firmly on the countertop when in use.

COSTWAY Tilt-head Stand Mixer 5.3Qt 6-Speed 120V/800W Electric Food Mixer with Mixer Blade, Dough Hook, Whisk, Splash Guard, Stainless Steel Bowl(Black)

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Professional Grade Stand Mixer

KitchenAid KP26M1XOB 6 Qt. Professional 600 Series Bowl-Lift Stand Mixer

KitchenAid KP26M1XOB 6 Qt. Professional 600 Series Bowl-Lift Stand Mixer - Onyx Black

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The Professional 600 Series 6-Quart Bowl-Lift stand mixer from KitchenAid is just right for mixture that’s thick and heavy. It is a versatile and functional mixer that performs at a professional standard but is still easy to use.

This KitchenAid KP26M1XOB Bowl Lift Stand Mixer comes with three attachments and a splash guard with pouring spout.  In addition to this it has a multipurpose power hub for over 12 optional attachments.

The ease of use of this mixer is enhanced by the handle on the 6-Qt. Stainless Steel mixing bowl and the 67-point planetary mixing action.  You do not need to keep scraping the bowl as the planetary mixing ensures that the ingredients are properly incorporated.

With the bowl lift design of the KitchenAid KP26M1XOB Stand Mixer, you are assured of staying power. This means that your mixer can handle heavy duty mixing without jumping around on the work surface.

There are  heavy recipes and mixtures that destroy lighter mixers, therefore reach for a professional grade stand mixer.

KitchenAid KP26M1XOB 6 Qt. Professional 600 Series Bowl-Lift Stand Mixer - Onyx Black

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Hand and Stand Mixer

Hamilton Beach Classic Hand and Stand Mixer 

Stand Mixer

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The main focus of the Hamilton Beach Classic Hand and Stand Mixer is ergonomics and versatility. It is designed is such a way that it’s easy to use both as a hand mixer as well as a stand mixer. You can decide on which function best fits the culinary task at hand.

When working on thick mixtures, the stand mixer function comes in handy. For those delicate or light mixtures, it’s best to remove the mixer from the base for quick and smooth operation.

The Hamilton Beach Classic Hand and Stand Mixer has 6 speed settings with a quick burst button. These speed settings allow you to adjust the speed of the mixer to suit the recipe you are working with.

Not an ardent or frequent cook or baker? This mixer is ideal for those occasions that the culinary bug bites.

Hamilton Beach Classic Hand/Stand Mixer, Red

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Before we sign off, let’s do a quick recap of all the products that we have mentioned in this review with a table of comparison.

Comparison Table

Cuisinart SM-55BK  Stand Mixer 

 

 

Cuisinart SM-55BC 5-1/2-Quart 12-Speed Stand Mixer, Brushed Chrome (Renewed)

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Cuisinart SM-50R Stand Mixer 

 

Cuisinart SM-50R Stand Mixer, Red

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Costway 5.3Qt Stand Mixer 

 

COSTWAY Tilt-head Stand Mixer 5.3Qt 6-Speed 120V/800W Electric Food Mixer with Mixer Blade, Dough Hook, Whisk, Splash Guard, Stainless Steel Bowl(Black)

You can buy this product now by clicking here

KitchenAid KP26M1XOB Bowl-Lift Stand Mixer 

 

KitchenAid KP26M1XOB 6 Qt. Professional 600 Series Bowl-Lift Stand Mixer - Onyx Black

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Hamilton Beach Classic Hand and Stand Mixer 

Hamilton Beach Classic Hand/Stand Mixer, Red

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Category

Featured Product Cheaper Option From The Same Brand Second Cheaper Option From Another Brand Professional Grade Mixer  Hand and Stand Mixer

Bowl Capacity  in Quarts

5 1/2 Five and half quarts A little over 5 quarts 6 4

Mixer Head Design

Tilt Head Design Angled Tilt Head Bowl Lift design Detachable head

Motor  Watt and Speed

 800 watts and 12 speed options 500Watts   , 12  Speed Options 800Watts ,  6 Speed Settings 575 Watts , 10 Speed Options 290 , 6 Speed settings

Color

Available in 3  Colors – Black, silver and brushed chrome 6 Colors – Blue , Black, turquoise, red, white  and Brushed Chrome Available in two colors – black and white Comes in over 10 colors Available in Red and Black

Material

Die cast metal and stainless steel mixing bowl Die Cast Metal and Stainless Steel Mixing Bowl ABS Plastic unit and Stainless Steel bowl Steel and Iron Brushed  stainless steel

Extra Features

3 Power Hub for additional attachments , splash guard with pouring spout, auto shut off ,15-minute countdown timer and recipe booklet One power outlet for extra attachments , splash guard with pouring spout and recipe book Transparent splash shield, non slip suction silicone cups and user manual 67-Point Planetary Mixing Action, splash guard and extra power hub QuickBurst button and

Bowl rest mixer stabilizer

Product Dimensions

15.5 x 10 x 12.5 inches 16.5 x 11.2 x 15.9 in 15.6 x 9.1 x 14.9 in 9 x 7.25 x 17 in 5.9 x 9.7 x 10.5 inches

Manufacturer

Cuisinart Cuisinart Costway KitchenAid Hamilton Beach

 

Our Verdict

We took our time researching this product the Cuisinart SM-55BC Stand Mixer and have presented you with a summary of our findings.

Based on these findings, we can conclusively say that this stand mixer though pricey is a high end product.  A lot of people have testified to the great value they have gotten for the price paid. However as with everything in life, one man’s meat may be another’s poison. That is to say that the final verdict actually lays with you the end user.

Our candid advise is that you weigh all the variables and be convinced that they add up to your expectations before making a purchase.  When you do that, then you can  confidently say that you have gotten the right value for your money.

We believe that this review would help you make the right choice for you.

Cuisinart SM-55BC 5-1/2-Quart 12-Speed Stand Mixer, Brushed Chrome (Renewed)

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