Artisan breads have exploded in popularity over the last decade or so. They are cherished for their unique textures, flavors, and crusts, which result from traditional baking methods and high-quality ingredients. You are starting to see more and more bakeries making and offering artisan-style breads to their customers. For bakeries to offer these artisan creations, they need the right equipment. At the heart of the needed equipment is a mixer that can efficiently mix the dough needed to produce artisan loaves. The mixer we speak of is the spiral dough mixer. In this blog, we’ll delve into why a spiral dough mixer is indispensable for making artisan bread and how it can elevate your baking process.

What is a Spiral Dough Mixer?

So what exactly is a spiral mixer and what's so special about it? A spiral dough mixer is a mixer designed to replicate the manual hand-kneading motion of mixing dough. A spiral hook is used and rotates in a motion that consistently and efficiently kneads the dough while properly mixing the ingredients. This unique mixing action makes it the most effective mixer for creating a well-developed artisan dough. The spiral dough mixers also feature a rotating bowl that maximizes ingredient blending and ensures proper dough development.

Empire IRIS Spiral Dough Mixer

Benefits of Using a Spiral Dough Mixer

1. Consistent Mixing and Kneading

Artisan doughs need to be mixed and kneaded properly to allow the gluten structure to develop. No other mixer kneads a dough like a spiral mixer does. The spiral hook and rotating bowl work together to ensure that all ingredients are thoroughly mixed, resulting in a homogeneous dough. This consistency is crucial for achieving the perfect crumb structure and texture in artisan breads.

2. Efficient Dough Development

We have mentioned this a lot already but the truth is, an artisan bread is only as good as its dough development. When you cut open an artisan baguette and you see those large holes in the crumb structure, that is only possible with a properly developed dough. Spiral dough mixers allow the gluten structure to create that characteristic chewiness and structure that customers know and love. Spiral dough mixers are also designed to mix dough gently, so as to not overwork the dough and ruin the structure. The gentle kneading action of a spiral mixer also helps to create a strong gluten network, essential for the dough’s elasticity and strength.

3. Temperature Control

Speaking of overworking the dough. Some mixers have a tendency to heat up the dough due to friction and that is something that no baker wants. Maintaining the right dough temperature is vital for artisan bread making. Overheating can damage the yeast and gluten structure, leading to inferior bread quality. Spiral dough mixers generate less frictional heat during mixing compared to other mixers thanks to their spiral and bowl rotation. These features help to keep the dough at an optimal temperature and preserve its integrity.

4. Versatility

Spiral dough mixers are versatile and can handle a wide range of dough types and hydration levels. Empire's IRIS Spiral Arm Mixer can be found in bakeries, pizzerias, bagel shops and restaurants all over the country. No matter what type of bread dough you are mixing, the spiral dough mixer will provide you with the best possible results.

5. Large Batch Capabilities

Whether you are a small to medium-sized retail baker or a large wholesale production, there is a spiral dough mixer capable of the capacity you need. The ability to mix large batches of dough efficiently is a significant advantage of the spiral mixer. Specific models of the spiral dough mixer feature those with removable bowls in order to feed multiple production lines, or tiltover spiral mixers that can be raised and dumbed at bench height for further processing.

How to Choose the Right Spiral Dough Mixer

When selecting a spiral dough mixer for your artisan bread making, it is important t consider the following factors:

  • Capacity: Choose a mixer that fits your production needs. Consider the batch size you typically work with and select a mixer with an appropriate bowl capacity.
  • Speed Settings: Look for a mixer with variable speed settings to accommodate different dough types and mixing stages. Empire's Spiral Arm Mixer features a 2-speed spiral and bowl drive.
  • Build Quality: The mixer needs to be able to withstand the rigors of daily use in a busy bakery or facility. Ensure the mixer is made from durable materials and has a robust construction to withstand frequent use.
  • Ease of Cleaning: Opt for a mixer that is easy to clean and maintain, as this will save you time and effort in the long run.

A spiral dough mixer is an essential tool for anyone serious about making artisan breads. Its ability to mix and replicate the dough-kneading process consistently, develop gluten efficiently, and maintain optimal dough temperature makes it a must-have mixer for artisan bread production. Investing in a high-quality spiral dough mixer can elevate your bread-making skills and help you produce loaves with superior texture, flavor, and structure.