This mixer is the best mixer ever for making pastry dishes.  The enclosed whisks help evenly mix the dough with minimal effort.  It is not overly powerful as traditional mixers are, so that helps my dough come out perfect!  This was used a lot the last month making all the holiday desserts and breads!  I would not recommend using this mixer for shredding chicken or mixing thicker mixes, like a cream cheese base.  It does not work as well on those types of food items.