Best Overall
Chefman Immersion Blender
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To get you started, we’ve handpicked and reviewed the best immersion blenders of 2024 to help make your cooking effortless and energizing. Our favorite is currently the Chefman Immersion Blender, but our other recommendations are just as good!
When you’re working hard in the kitchen, multifunctional accessories like immersion blenders can make your life much easier. While I love my smoothie blender, sometimes lugging it around the kitchen and cleaning its large frame afterward is just too much effort. However, an immersion blender can do just that in half the effort. From pureeing ingredients for hot soups to transforming frozen fruits into a healthy, nutritious smoothie, the most powerful handheld blenders can help you prepare all kinds of delicious dishes and drinks.
Finding Your Next Immersion Blender: A Buyer's Guide
Selecting the most suitable immersion blender for your kitchen is not easy when there are so many models and features to sort through. I know I get easily overwhelmed by all the options. To help you find the best blender, our team has curated a comprehensive buying guide for simplifying your shopping process.
Why You Should Choose an Immersion Blender Over a Traditional Food Processor
Kitchen accessories have greatly evolved in recent years. Now, there are many different reasons why you should opt for a sleek immersion blender instead of a countertop food processor or blender. Read on to learn more!
Space-saving, compact design
Unlike traditional food processors, immersion blenders take up less space. With detachable attachments and compact corded units, immersion blenders can free up extra countertop space. If you're like me, the more counter space, the better. The elongated design of these blenders also ensures convenient storage in small cabinets and drawers.
Ease of use
Traditional food processors have containers with a limited capacity of up to 2 liters. Thankfully, good immersion blenders are not bound by containers or beakers. The powerful appliance doesn't require you to haul and pour the ingredients into a special jar to blend thoroughly. Instead, you can stick your immersion blender right into the pot or container to whip up its contents without the unnecessary extra steps. Now, you can save energy and avoid strain on your muscles. Immersion blenders also save time and resources since you won't get as many dishes dirty while cooking.
Time-saving efficient performance
Handheld blenders are portable and convenient to use thanks to their compact design. You can blend directly in any container! That means you don't have to spend extra time setting up the unit or pouring out the mixture you've just blended. So, not only do the immersion blenders deliver swift and powerful performance, but they also save you the hassle of unnecessary utensil washing.
Resistant to temperature fluctuations
Countertop blenders can malfunction or even lead to dangerous situations if you dump hot contents directly into them. This is because the action takes place in a closed, lidded environment where steam and pressure build up as hot liquid is released. However, handheld immersion blenders with stainless steel attachments can sustain both hot and cold temperatures. Their unique design also doesn't build up pressure as the steam from hot ingredients dissipates normally. When I'm making soup, I hate waiting around for the ingredients to cool off before putting them in the blender. But now, you can pop the blending shaft directly into the pot and create a steaming hot yet smooth consistency right on the stovetop.
Factors That You Shouldn't Overlook While Shopping for an Immersion Blender
There are other factors that you should consider when you are narrowing down your options for immersion blenders. Here are some more things to consider:
Power wattage: The most fundamental factor
The first thing you see on the immersion blender packaging is its power wattage (W) range. From 200 watts to 1000 watts, hand blenders are available in a range of various power wattages. Higher wattage ensures higher blending performance without burnt wiring. A more powerful motor on an immersion blender means that the blender operates for a longer duration without heating up. Any immersion blender that falls in the category of 250 to 500 watts will deliver the smoothest performance to churn out batters, purees, sauces, and any culinary masterpieces you have in mind.
Speed variability: For control & precision
Blending requires variable speeds, so you will find that in the leading immersion blenders. A high-quality model should come with multiple speed levels so that you can adjust it according to your requirements. For instance, you need slow-speed blending to emulsify sauces, while the turbo speed blitzes ingredients for a rough or chunky texture, such as guacamole. The knobs and buttons ensure that you can easily switch between speed levels. Many immersion blenders also feature a pulse function for breaking up particularly tough ingredients.
Material choice: Ensures longevity & durability
Immersion blenders are mostly manufactured with stainless steel, titanium-plated components, and plastic. Stainless steel blending shafts and attachments allow you to blend hot ingredients, which isn’t usually possible with plastic-manufactured blenders. Additionally, stainless steel immersion blenders are comparatively durable and resistant to usual wear and tear. Because of this, stainless steel immersion blenders are a more popular choice.
Cord length: For user ease
The cord length of a handheld blender can directly affect how often you are able to use your immersion blender. Available in various lengths ranging from 2.5 to 6 feet, longer cord lengths make the unit easy to maneuver, especially if you're blending in different areas of the kitchen. Shorter cords, on the other hand, can be easier and more comfortable to use since they aren't as bulky or as likely to get in the way. They may require switching power cords more often around the kitchen though. Some immersion blenders even feature cordless designs and opt for a rechargeable motor. These may be the most convenient but also more expensive. The optimal cord length mostly depends on personal preference and how your kitchen’s power outlets are designed.
Essential Tips for Selecting a Handheld Blender
When you are on the hunt for the ideal immersion blender, certain parameters can take your blending experience to the next level. We’ve broken down the secret things to watch out for in this section.
Opt for a lightweight blending unit
If you're willing to invest in a high-quality immersion blender, go for a lightweight unit to save yourself from hand cramps and muscle fatigue while cooking. I know I hate it when I have to take a time-out from cooking due to hand cramps. When you are continuously whisking and blending things during big festivities and meal prep sessions, a bulky handheld blender can cause discomfort for your wrists.
Look for attachments and accessories
Immersion blenders that come with various attachments and container components can help you accomplish a range of cooking tasks. In addition to different blending shafts, the whisk attachment is a handy tool to create fluffy cake batters, frothy lattes, and omelet blends. Who doesn't love a fluffy mocha? A chopper cup is also a handy accessory that often comes with an immersion blender. This particular accessory can help you whip up the creamiest hummus and smoothest purees in large batches. Handheld blenders also usually come with a beaker featuring readable measurements. This is great for following proper recipe measurements.
It’s all about the proper grip
In order to use an immersion blender, you have to hold the detachable motor unit in your hands continuously while blending. That's why it's important to look for an ergonomic design that fits well in your hand. Contoured and slim handles on immersion blenders are generally easier to grip and cause less fatigue, while bulky handles offer poor grip and can cause stress on your muscles. You can also opt for blenders that come with non-slip silicone padding to avoid possible accidents.
Tips for Using Your New Immersion Blender
If you’ve decided to invest in an immersion blender, you might be wondering how to use it effectively. Below, we share some helpful tips for getting the most out of your new immersion blender.
Keep the blade fully submerged in an appropriate-size container
To avoid splattering food everywhere and making a huge mess in your kitchen (something I do way too often), it’s important to make sure that you only blend inside a deep container that has sufficient ingredients. These high sides can help keep any accidental splatters from covering your counters or walls. Having enough mixture inside the container is also key as you should always keep the blender submerged at least an inch under the surface.
Always start slow
It’s a good idea to start blending your ingredients at a slow speed or with the pulse mode. Marly McMillen vegan recipe creator and founder of Namely Marly, says, "Always begin blending on the lowest speed and gradually increase the speed. This helps break up larger chunks first, creating a creamier end product!"
Move the tool when necessary
Depending on your cooking or baking experience, you may know that for making certain foods, adding air to the mixture is an important part of achieving the optimal texture. For fluffy condiments like whipped cream or mayonnaise, move your immersion blender around from left to right as well as up and down. This motion will help you achieve a better whip and froth for lighter foods. For regular mixtures that should be thicker, keep your immersion blender mostly still.
Run it for the optimal amount of time
In general, you should aim to only operate your immersion blender’s motor for up to one minute in a span of four minutes, especially for thick ingredients. If your mixture still requires blending, let the blender rest for a few minutes before resuming. Taking your time in these situations will help prevent your handheld blender’s motor from burning out.
Wash it by hand
While most immersion blenders have dishwasher-safe attachments and accessories, these will remain sharper and last longer if you wash them by hand. Similar to knives, avoiding the dishwasher will help prevent dulling or weakening of the materials. This can keep your new immersion blender in nice shape and working effectively for longer. McMillian shared her favorite way to wash her blender, "fill a glass up to about 3/4 full with warm water and a drop or two of dishwashing liquid. Dip the blender into the glass and blend for 10 to 20 seconds. Then rinse off the blender with cool water. If your blender is particularly clogged, you can repeat that process." How easy is that?
What You Can Make With an Immersion Blender
You can prepare all kinds of delicious food and drinks with a handheld blender. For breakfast, use it to make a light, frothy omelet or egg white mixture for a high-protein savory start to your day. You can also put an immersion blender to work whipping air into a latte to get that much-needed boost of energy (that's what I'd be making!) Short on time? Blend up a nutritious smoothie packed with fruits and veggies. If you’re not using frozen produce, add crushed ice instead of cubed ice.
For lunch, you can use your immersion blender to whip up delicious salad dressings or pasta sauces. For a healthy pre-dinner snack, blend your way into some creamy hummus to enjoy with veggies or pita chips. For your final meal of the day, puree some hearty ingredients and spices into a rich soup to feel full, warm, and cozy before bed.
McMillen, shares, "When you want to transform chunky soup into a smooth puree, there’s nothing like an immersion blender to get the job done." Besides these delicious items to get you through the day, you can also make a range of things for your little one. Immersion blenders are popular among parents as this tool comes in handy for making homemade baby food. This is perfect if you want to ensure your baby is getting healthy ingredients or to create batch-prepped meals stored in the fridge or freezer.
You can also use your immersion blenders for gatherings. Hosting a party for your friends and family or need to bring snacks to an event? Whip up a huge batch of pico de gallo or guacamole with a handheld blender that has variable speed settings. All you need to do is grab some chips and you’re ready to entertain!
Top Picks
- Best Overall: Chefman Immersion Blender
- Most Durable: Mueller Austria Ultra-Stick Immersion Blender
- Most User-Friendly: Braun Immersion Blender
- Best Attachments: Koios 4-In-1 Hand Immersion Blender
- Most Colors: Cuisinart Smart Stick Hand Blender
- Longest Reach: Bella 10-Speed Immersion Blender
- Most Affordable: Amazon Basics Multi-Speed Immersion Blender
Reviews
Most Durable
Mueller Austria Ultra-Stick Immersion Blender
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Most User-Friendly
Braun Immersion Blender
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Best Attachments
Koios 4-In-1 Hand Immersion Blender
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Most Colors
Cuisinart Smart Stick Hand Blender
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Longest Reach
Bella 10-Speed Immersion Blender
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Most Affordable
Amazon Basics Multi-Speed Immersion Blender
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FAQs
Is it safe to place handheld blenders in a dishwasher?
The handle base of immersion blenders is not safe for dishwashing as the moisture may cause the motor to malfunction. When manufacturers refer to an immersion blender as dishwasher-safe, they are usually referring to the attachments and accessories. Stainless steel ones almost always are safe to put in the dishwasher, but it's a good idea to confirm that plastic accessories are.
Which immersion blender works well with hot ingredients?
Every immersion blender with stainless steel assembly and blades is suitable for blending hot liquids and inside warmed pots or containers. Still, you should always check the manufacturer’s specifications and instructions to ensure that the unit is safe to use in and around heat.
What are some things you can do with an immersion blender?
Depending on its size, an immersion blender can blend, chop, whisk, and emulsify any form of food. Whether you want to whip up smooth batters for baking, emulsify savory sauces, or blend vegetable purees, this handheld kitchen appliance can serve as your ultimate companion in the kitchen.
Is it worth it to buy an immersion blender?
If you love to make pureed soups or homemade dips like salsa or guacamole, an immersion blender is definitely a worthwhile investment. While these compact appliances aren't always as powerful as regular blenders, they can still blend almost any ingredient and are great for all sorts of uses.
Do immersion blenders make a mess?
Generally, if you blend your ingredients in a high-sided container or pot, you won't make a mess while using your immersion blender. Another good rule of thumb to avoid food splatters is to keep the blades of the blender completely covered, usually about an inch or so underneath the surface of your mixture.