Whipped with no hassle

Immersion blenders, also known as hand or stick blenders, have definitely found their place in kitchens.  They are fantastic at puréeing, blending and whipping food.  Because they are portable, they go right to the food and do their work.  Cooks can whip a cup of heavy cream, purée a large pot of soup and whisk a couple of egg yokes until pale.  My daughters use them to froth the milk on their lattés. I use them to mix up salad dressings and marinades, purée cooked vegetables or beans, and whip cream. Here are the five best according to many reviews.

The Conair Cuisinart Smart Stick CSB-75BC 200 hand blender has a powerful motor and is available in fourteen colors. The stick design allows blender to reach into pots, bowls and pitchers that regular mixers are not able to do.  It is dishwasher safe. $31.00.

The All-Clad KZ750D Stainless Steel Immersion Blender has a black sure-grip plastic handle.  It blends easily and will puree a wide variety of foods. $85.00.

The OXO On illuminating Digital Immersion Blender with Headlight has a splatter-free slow start and an easy to use dial to adjust your speeds.  The headlight illuminates the pot or bowl you are blending in.  A measuring beaker with a lid is included.  $89.99.

The Hamilton Beach 59770 Turbo-Twister 2-Speed Hand Blender is able to purée large batches of soup – always a good test!  It comes with a whisk attachment for whipping cream.  It is $24.97.

This immersion hand blender by Dualit can purée thick soup in two minutes and crush frozen fruit to make a smoothie.  It has different speeds and a nice long cord.  It will give you good performance and good looks. It comes with accessories – a chopping container, blending beaker, balloon whisk and chrome plated beaters.  $130.00.