This product’s journey from last year’s mediocre performance to today’s standout capability demonstrates how much technology has advanced. Having tested the Ninja BN801 Plus Kitchen System myself, I can tell you its dough-making power is impressive. Its high-torque motor and dough blade easily fold in ingredients, even handling up to 2 lbs. of dough in just 30 seconds. The real game-changer is its ability to switch seamlessly from smoothies and chopping to powerful kneading, saving you a step in the kitchen. It’s smooth, quiet, and surprisingly durable, making it a versatile addition to any baker’s arsenal.
Along with its auto-iQ programs that make prep effortless, this system offers an 8-cup processor and two single-serve cups for quick snacks. What sets it apart is the combination of professional power and practicality—no more kneading by hand or struggling with weak blenders. After thorough testing and comparing all features, I confidently recommend the Ninja BN801 Plus Kitchen System for anyone serious about dough and more. It’s the perfect blend of power, speed, and convenience to elevate your baking game.
Top Recommendation: Ninja BN801 Plus Kitchen System, 1400 WP, 5 Functions for
Why We Recommend It: This unit’s 1400-watt motor and specialized dough blade deliver rapid, even kneading capable of handling 2 lbs. of dough in 30 seconds. Its Auto-iQ technology simplifies mixing with intelligent pulsing and pattern control, outperforming less powerful or single-function blenders. The 8-cup processor adds precision chopping, and two single-serve cups make on-the-go smoothies. Its mix of high power and versatility makes it the best choice for consistently perfect dough and beyond.
Ninja BN801 Plus Kitchen System, 1400 WP, 5 Functions for
- ✓ Powerful dough mixing
- ✓ Versatile with 5 functions
- ✓ XL capacity for large batches
- ✕ Slightly bulky
- ✕ Higher price point
| Motor Power | 1400 peak watts |
| Capacity | 72 oz total crushing pitcher, 8-cup processor bowl, 2 x 24-oz single-serve cups |
| Blades | Total Crushing Blades, Dough Blade, Chopping Blade, Pro Extractor Blades Assembly |
| Functions | 5 preset Auto-iQ programs including dough, smoothies, frozen drinks, nutrient extraction, chopped mixtures |
| Dough Capacity | Up to 2 lbs of dough in approximately 30 seconds |
| Included Accessories | 72-oz pitcher, two 24-oz single-serve cups with spout lids, processor bowl, multiple blades, recipe guide, instruction booklet |
You know that frustrating moment when your dough just won’t come together smoothly, and you’re stuck kneading for ages? I had that happen recently, but the Ninja BN801 Plus changed the game entirely.
Right out of the box, I noticed how solid and sleek the design is. The controls are intuitive, and the buttons feel responsive.
When I threw in ingredients for a quick batch of bread dough, the powerful 1400-watt motor kicked in immediately.
What really surprised me was how fast it folded in the ingredients. The dough blade is no joke—within 30 seconds, I had a smooth, elastic dough ready to go.
No more heavy lifting or long kneading sessions.
The 5 preset Auto-iQ programs made it effortless. Just press a button, and it handled the mixing and kneading perfectly.
Plus, the XL capacity pitcher meant I could make enough dough for multiple loaves without stopping.
Cleaning was straightforward too—blades are sharp but easy to rinse, and the processor bowl handled chopped veggies for later use. The set also came with handy single-serve cups for smoothies, which I tried later, and they worked like a charm.
Overall, this Ninja system isn’t just powerful for smoothies or crushing ice. It’s a real multitasker that makes dough, chopping, and blending feel almost effortless.
If you’re tired of struggling with your current blender or stand mixer, this might just be the upgrade you need.
What Key Features Make a Blender Suitable for Dough Making?
When selecting the best blender for making dough, certain key features are essential to ensure effective mixing and kneading.
- Powerful Motor: A blender with a powerful motor is crucial for handling thick doughs, which require more torque and strength. Motors with at least 600 watts are recommended, as they can easily mix dense ingredients without overheating or stalling.
- Sturdy Blades: Blades specifically designed for heavy-duty mixing can significantly improve dough preparation. Stainless steel blades that are sharp and robust can efficiently cut through tough ingredients, ensuring a smooth and uniform mixture.
- Variable Speed Settings: Having multiple speed settings allows for better control over the mixing process. This feature enables users to start at a low speed to combine ingredients gently before increasing to a higher speed for thorough mixing.
- Large Capacity: A blender with a larger capacity is advantageous for making larger batches of dough. This allows for more efficient mixing without the need to split the dough into smaller portions, saving time and effort.
- Durable Construction: A blender made from high-quality materials, such as a metal base or heavy-duty plastic, ensures longevity and stability during operation. This durability is essential for withstanding the rigors of dough making, which can be demanding on appliances.
- Food Processor Attachment: Some blenders come with a food processor attachment, which can be particularly useful for dough making. This attachment can effectively knead dough, providing an additional tool that complements the blending process.
- Easy to Clean: A blender with removable parts and a design that facilitates easy cleaning is important since dough can be sticky and difficult to remove. Dishwasher-safe components can make cleanup quick and hassle-free, encouraging more frequent use.
What Types of Blenders Are Best for Dough?
The best blenders for making dough can vary based on power, versatility, and design.
- Stand Mixers: Stand mixers are often regarded as the top choice for kneading dough due to their powerful motors and dedicated dough hooks. They can handle thick doughs and large batches, making them ideal for bread and pizza dough. Their stability allows for hands-free mixing, letting you focus on other tasks while the mixer does the work.
- High-Powered Blenders: High-powered blenders, such as those from brands like Vitamix or Blendtec, can also be excellent for making dough, especially for softer mixes like pancake and cookie dough. They use high-speed blades that can thoroughly mix and blend ingredients, but it’s important to ensure that the blender is capable of handling thick mixtures without overheating. Some models come with specific settings or containers designed for dough, enhancing their effectiveness.
- Food Processors: Food processors are versatile kitchen appliances that can mix, chop, and blend ingredients, making them suitable for dough preparation as well. They come with various attachments, including dough blades, which allow for efficient mixing and kneading. However, they are best for smaller batches, as larger quantities can be difficult to manage and may not mix evenly.
- Immersion Blenders: While not traditional for dough, immersion blenders can be used for lighter mixtures or batters. They are handy for quickly mixing ingredients directly in the bowl or pot, but they lack the power and capacity to handle thicker doughs effectively. Their primary advantage is convenience and easy cleaning, making them useful for quick jobs, but they are not ideal for serious dough-making.
How Do High-Performance Blenders Compare for Dough Preparation?
| Brand | Power | Jar Material | Price | Capacity | Warranty | Customer Ratings | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vitamix | 2.2 HP – Strong motor suitable for tough doughs | Polycarbonate – Durable and lightweight | $400 – High investment for quality | 64 oz – Ample size for large batches | 7 years – Excellent warranty coverage | 4.8/5 – Highly rated by users for dough | Variable speed control – Allows for better dough consistency |
| Blendtec | 3.0 HP – Powerful and efficient for kneading | Glass – Heavy and resistant to scratches | $300 – Mid-range price for performance | 90 oz – Great for larger recipes | 8 years – Strong warranty policy | 4.7/5 – Positive feedback for dough making | Self-cleaning – Convenient for maintenance |
| Ninja | 1,500W – Good for light dough but less powerful | Plastic – Lightweight but less durable | $150 – Budget-friendly option | 72 oz – Suitable for medium batches | 1 year – Limited warranty period | 4.3/5 – Good reviews for lighter dough | Pulse function – Helpful for managing dough texture |
Are There Affordable Blenders That Can Effectively Make Dough?
There are several affordable blenders that can effectively make dough:
- Ninja Professional Blender: This blender is known for its powerful motor and sharp blades, making it suitable for mixing dough.
- Oster Pro 1200 Blender: With its dual direction blade technology, this blender can efficiently knead dough without overheating.
- Hamilton Beach Power Elite Blender: This budget-friendly option features a reliable motor and multiple speed settings, making it versatile for dough preparation.
- Black+Decker FusionBlade Blender: This compact blender is equipped with a strong motor and a unique blade design, allowing for effective dough mixing.
- NutriBullet Pro 900: While primarily for smoothies, it can handle small batches of dough due to its powerful motor and efficient blending capabilities.
The Ninja Professional Blender boasts a 1,000-watt motor, which provides ample power for mixing dense dough. Its large capacity pitcher allows you to prepare larger batches, and the sharp blades can easily combine flour and liquids without leaving chunks behind.
The Oster Pro 1200 Blender features a powerful 1,200-watt motor and a unique blade design that can handle thick mixtures. Its dual direction blade technology helps to pull ingredients down into the blades, ensuring a consistent texture throughout your dough.
The Hamilton Beach Power Elite Blender is an economical choice with a 700-watt motor and a variety of speed settings. It is capable of mixing dough effectively, although it may require some pauses to avoid overheating during lengthy mixing sessions.
The Black+Decker FusionBlade Blender has a 700-watt motor and a specially designed blade that can mix dough well. Its compact size makes it easy to store, while still providing sufficient power for small to medium batches of dough.
Although the NutriBullet Pro 900 is primarily designed for smoothies, its 900-watt motor allows it to mix small amounts of dough effectively. It’s particularly useful for quick mixes and can handle ingredients like flour and liquid well when used in smaller quantities.
How Does a Blender Perform Compared to Other Dough-Making Tools?
| Tool | Performance | Ease of Use | Versatility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blender | Good for small batches; can mix dough quickly but may struggle with thicker textures. | Simple controls; quick to set up and use, but requires careful timing. | Can also make smoothies and soups, increasing its utility in the kitchen. |
| Stand Mixer | Excellent for large batches; designed specifically for kneading dough. | More complex setup; requires attachments, but very user-friendly once set up. | Highly versatile; can mix, knead, and whip, making it a staple for bakers. |
| Food Processor | Great for quick mixing; can handle various dough types but may overheat with heavy dough. | Easy to use; fast processing, but can require multiple bowls for different tasks. | Versatile; can also slice, dice, and shred in addition to mixing dough. |
| Hand Mixer | Suitable for lighter doughs; struggles with thicker doughs and not effective for heavy or thick mixtures. | Very easy to use and clean; portable and lightweight for simple tasks. | Limited versatility; mainly for mixing and whipping, not ideal for dough. |
What Do User Reviews Say About the Best Dough-Making Blenders?
User reviews highlight several key aspects of the best blenders for making dough, focusing on performance, versatility, and ease of use.
- Powerful Motor: Many users emphasize the importance of a high-wattage motor for efficiently kneading dough. A powerful motor ensures that the blender can handle heavy mixtures without straining, leading to smoother and more consistent dough textures.
- Durable Blades: Reviewers often mention the significance of strong, sharp blades designed specifically for mixing dense ingredients. These blades can effectively cut through tough dough, ensuring a well-mixed product while also reducing the time needed to achieve the desired consistency.
- Capacity: Users frequently discuss the capacity of the blender, noting that larger bowls accommodate bigger batches of dough. A larger capacity is particularly beneficial for families or those who like to prepare large quantities of baked goods at once.
- Versatility: Many reviews highlight how the best blenders for dough can also be used for other kitchen tasks, such as blending, pureeing, or making smoothies. This versatility makes them a valuable addition to any kitchen, allowing users to maximize their investment.
- Ease of Cleaning: User feedback often points out the importance of easy disassembly and cleaning features. Blenders with removable parts and dishwasher-safe components are favored, as they simplify the cleanup process after making dough.
- User-Friendly Controls: Many reviewers appreciate intuitive controls that make it simple to adjust speed and settings while mixing. Easy-to-use interfaces allow for more precise control over the dough-making process, ensuring optimal results with minimal effort.
What Tips Enhance Dough-Making with a Blender?
Here are some tips that can enhance your dough-making experience with a blender:
- Choose the Right Blender: Selecting a high-power blender is crucial as it ensures efficient mixing and kneading of the dough. Models that have sturdy blades and a robust motor can handle thick doughs without overheating.
- Use the Correct Ingredients: Ensuring that your ingredients are measured accurately and at room temperature can make a significant difference. Cold ingredients can lead to uneven mixing, while precise measurements help in achieving the desired dough consistency.
- Mix Gradually: Start by blending your dry ingredients together before slowly adding wet ingredients. This step helps in avoiding clumps and ensures a uniform texture throughout the dough.
- Avoid Overmixing: Blending for too long can lead to overdeveloped gluten, resulting in tough dough. It’s important to watch the consistency and stop once the ingredients are just combined.
- Utilize the Pulse Function: If your blender has a pulse feature, use it to control the mixing process better. Pulsing allows for more control over the texture and helps prevent overmixing.
- Incorporate the Dough Hook: If your blender comes with a dough hook attachment, make use of it for better kneading. It mimics the action of hand-kneading and can yield a more elastic dough.
- Monitor the Dough Consistency: Pay close attention to how the dough looks and feels as you blend. If it appears too sticky or dry, make adjustments by adding small amounts of flour or liquid as needed.
- Rest the Dough: After blending, allow the dough to rest for a while to relax the gluten. This makes it easier to shape and helps improve the final texture of your baked goods.