What is an appropriate weight for buttercream when preparing for a mixer?

The chosen answer of 8lbs is appropriate for buttercream preparation in a mixer because it represents a manageable quantity that balances efficiency with the capability of standard commercial mixers typically used in bakery settings. This weight allows for optimal mixing without overloading the mixer, ensuring that the buttercream can be thoroughly whipped to achieve the right texture and consistency.

Using a weight of 8lbs provides enough volume for mixing, which enhances the incorporation of air and helps in achieving the desired fluffy quality of buttercream. Additionally, this amount aligns well with common batch sizes used in bakeries to produce a sufficient yield for decorating cakes and pastries without wasting ingredients or time.

Increasing the weight to 10lbs or 12lbs could lead to mixing difficulties, such as uneven incorporation or strain on the equipment, which could compromise the final product. Conversely, 5lbs might be too small for larger bakery operations, potentially resulting in more frequent mixing sessions and inefficiencies.