The Ankarsrum Assistent Original is unlike most stand mixers. Its construction, method of mixing, and overall performance make it a distinctive machine, and understanding how it operates will help you make the most of it. Whether you are discovering Ankarsrum for the first time or have been using one for years, this guide explains what sets it apart and how to use it with confidence.
A Mixer with a Rich Heritage
Ankarsrum mixers have been manufactured in Sweden since 1940. For many decades they were sold under the Electrolux name, before becoming the Ankarsrum Assistent Original in 2008. The brand takes its name from the village of Ankarsrum in Småland, where the original machines were produced.
Today, every Ankarsrum mixer is still hand assembled in Sweden. This long tradition is reflected in the solid build quality, reliability, and careful engineering that have earned the mixer a loyal following among both home bakers and professionals.
Understanding the Distinctive Mixing Method
One of the first differences you will notice is how the Ankarsrum mixes. Instead of the attachment spinning inside a stationary bowl, the bowl itself rotates during use.
The rotating bowl works in combination with either a dough roller or a dough hook. This approach kneads dough gently and efficiently, helping to develop gluten evenly and improve dough structure. It also allows the mixer to handle anything from small everyday batches to very large quantities with ease.
When to Use the Dough Roller
The dough roller is well suited to a wide range of doughs, including:
- Bun and roll doughs
- Cookie dough
- Firmer or lower hydration doughs
- Doughs containing butter
It offers excellent control and is often the best choice for most routine baking tasks.
When to Use the Dough Hook
The dough hook is particularly useful for:
- Higher hydration doughs
- Very large batches
- Softer and looser bread doughs
It performs especially well when working close to the mixer’s maximum capacity.
Power Where It Counts
The Ankarsrum Assistent is equipped with a powerful 1500 watt motor. Rather than relying solely on raw power, it uses intelligent speed regulation to automatically adjust output and maintain consistent performance under load.
This enables the mixer to handle up to 5 kg of dough smoothly without strain or overheating. It is just as capable with small quantities, making it a practical choice for daily baking as well as larger projects.
Built for Stability and Quiet Performance
Unlike many stand mixers, the motor and gearbox in the Ankarsrum are located at the base of the machine. This gives it a low centre of gravity, ensuring excellent stability on the worktop even when mixing heavy doughs.
This design also contributes to quieter operation. Compared with many similar mixers, the Ankarsrum runs more quietly, making it well suited to early morning or evening baking.
Making the Most of the Bowl Capacity
Each Ankarsrum comes with two primary bowls, designed for different types of mixing.
The stainless steel bowl has a 7 litre capacity and can handle up to 5 kg of dough. It is ideal for bread baking, batch cooking, and entertaining, while still performing well with smaller amounts.
The beater bowl has a 3.5 litre capacity and is intended for lighter mixtures and whisking. It can whisk as few as two egg whites or up to around twenty for meringues, making it equally useful for cakes, desserts, and everyday baking.
Simple Controls and Easy Operation
Once you are familiar with the layout, the Ankarsrum is easy to use. The open bowl design allows you to add ingredients during mixing and makes it easy to observe and feel how the dough is developing.
The controls include:
- On and off operation with an integrated timer
- Stepless speed control for precise adjustment
- An adjustable arm to fine-tune how the attachment works against the bowl
This straightforward design gives you greater control over the mixing process and helps build confidence, particularly for new users.
More Than a Stand Mixer
One of the key advantages of the Ankarsrum is its versatility. With the appropriate accessories, it can perform far more tasks than mixing dough.
Depending on the attachment used, it can whisk, blend, mince, grate, press, rasp, roll pasta, and more. The machine can be used upright or on its side, depending on the accessory, and includes a dedicated drive outlet specifically for the blender.
This flexibility allows the mixer to adapt as your cooking and baking interests develop.
Built to Last and Designed for Longevity
Every Ankarsrum mixer is individually tested before leaving the factory, and the drive system is covered by a 7-year warranty.
Accessories available today remain compatible with older Ankarsrum models and even earlier Electrolux machines. This long-term compatibility extends the life of the product and supports a more sustainable approach to kitchen appliances.
A Mixer That Complements 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 model that fits both your cooking needs and your kitchen style.
Final Thoughts
The Ankarsrum Assistent Original is a powerful and carefully engineered kitchen machine that rewards understanding and regular use. By learning how its unique mixing system works and taking advantage of its capacity, stability, and accessories, you can achieve consistently better results while enjoying the process.
It is not simply a stand mixer, but a long-term kitchen companion designed to support everything from everyday baking to more ambitious culinary projects.