This week's ultimate kitchen item is a great mixer. I know, it's a bit of a splurge, and not everyone is going to use it. However, if you bake a lot (or plan on becoming a better baker), then you might really want to consider one. And, if you're building a registry, it's a great item for people to chip-in and get for you, so go for it!
My personal favorite (the one I have and love love love) is a KitchenAid Pro 600. It's a little pricey (list price: $500, but most places sell it for less than $400), but it will do everything you want it to and more. It comes with a flat beater, a wire whip, dough hook and a clear plastic pouring shield. You also have the option of purchasing other attachments such as a meat grinder, pasta maker or ice-cream machine. If the Pro is too pricey, KitchenAid also has an Artisan model that has a bit less power and capacity.
Three more mixers, including one you can use even if you don't have the counter space, so read more
