Home Baking Science and Kitchen Gear Tests — 2026-09-20

Top developments

Stiftung Warentest Names Two Air Fryer Winners

The German consumer organization Stiftung Warentest published the results of its latest air fryer test in its September 2026 issue. Of the 22 models evaluated, more than half achieved a "good" rating, signaling significant improvements in appliance quality and consistency across the market. The test identified two distinct winners, while also confirming that consumers can find high-performing units for as little as €85. This data is critical for bakers and cooks looking to optimize energy use and cooking speed without premium pricing.

1 sources

sol.de

sol.de

KitchenAid Launches Luminaire Stand Mixer with Illuminated Bowl

KitchenAid has officially debuted its 2026 Design Series Luminaire stand mixer, a model distinguished by its illuminated fluted glass bowl and a new "Blue Peppercorn" finish. The mixer features eleven speeds and dishwasher-safe attachments, addressing long-standing user requests for better visibility during mixing. While the mixer is available now, matching cookware ranges are scheduled to roll out later this fall. The illuminated bowl technology aids in monitoring dough hydration and gluten development, which are crucial for consistent baking results.

Ninja AF160EU Tops F.A.Z. Kaufkompass Test

In a comprehensive test of 71 hot-air fryers (Heißluftfritteusen), the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung (F.A.Z.) Kaufkompass named the Ninja AF160EU as the overall winner. The model was praised for its combination of speed, low noise levels, and intuitive operation. For home bakers using air fryers for tasks like proofing or crisping pastries, noise reduction and precise temperature control are key differentiators. The test underscores that mid-range models can often outperform premium units in specific utility metrics.

Ooni Expands Mixers with Halo Core Model

Ooni, known primarily for pizza ovens, has expanded its kitchen gear lineup with the Halo Core compact spiral mixer. Positioned as a more affordable alternative to their Halo Pro, the Halo Core offers a bowl size comparable to the KitchenAid Artisan. This move signals a broader industry shift toward specialized dough development tools entering the general home baking market, challenging traditional stand mixer dominance with spiral mixing geometry that mimics professional bakeries.

Local view

German media outlets are closely following the Stiftung Warentest results, with sol.de highlighting that the "new generation" of air fryers has matured significantly. Reports indicate that while premium brands like Ninja remain popular, they did not necessarily secure the top spots in independent German testing, with other competitors offering better value-to-performance ratios. This reflects a growing consumer skepticism toward brand premiums when independent labs verify that cheaper models meet rigorous safety and cooking standards.

1 sources

sol.de

sol.de

Context & numbers

• Price Floor: High-quality air fryers in Germany are now available starting at €85, according to Stiftung Warentest.
• Test Volume: Stiftung Warentest evaluated 22 models, while F.A.Z. tested 71 models, providing extensive comparative data for the European market.
• Product Specs: The new KitchenAid Luminaire includes 11 speeds and a glass bowl, a departure from the traditional stainless steel standard.

On the radar

• KitchenAid Matching Ranges: Only five matching cookware ranges exist currently, with wider availability expected later this fall; interested buyers should monitor inventory levels.
• Great British Bake Off 2026: The show's start date has been announced, which historically drives spikes in sales for specific baking gadgets and appliances featured by contestants.