A hand-held mixer is perfect for those jobs that don't merit dragging out a large mixer. You can quickly cream small amounts of butter and sugar for cakes, whisk egg whites, whip cream, and make frothy desserts such as zabaglione.

The key advantage is manoeuvrability. Depending on the length of the cord, you can use a hand-held mixer wherever you like. It's ideal for mixtures that need to be whisked in a bowl set over a pan of steaming water.

Unlike a large mixer with a mixing bowl and beaters fixed in place, a hand-held mixer allows you to move the beaters around the bowl so everything is evenly mixed.

Most hand-held mixers aren't powerful enough to cope with thick dough without overheating. However, one of the latest models has a heavy-duty motor, and even comes supplied with detachable dough hooks for making bread.

Before buying, it's a good idea to hold a mixer at the height you'll be using it at and see how long it takes for your arm to feel tired. Choose one that feels robust and durable, but light enough to be held comfortably for at least five minutes.