A whisk is a kitchen tool that consists of a long, narrow handle with a series of wire loops joined at the end. Whisks are used to blend ingredients together quickly or to incorporate air into ingredients such as egg whites or heavy cream in order to increase the volume of the mixture. Here are some common uses for different types of whisks:

• Balloon Whisk: This is the most common type of whisk, with a rounded shape that allows ingredients to easily sift through the open slots. Balloon whisks are used for whisking in bowls or sauciers, keeping custards in motion, combining dry ingredients, and smoothing batters.

• Ball Whisk: Ball whisks have no loops and instead have a group of individual wires that come out of the handle, each tipped with a metal ball. The heavy balls are capable of reaching into the corners of a straight-sided pan. Ball whisks are used for whisking across flat surfaces, like a wide skillet when making scrambled eggs, and for reaching into tight corners.

• French Whisk: French whisks have thick wires and a thin frame. They are used for sauces, emulsions such as vinaigrettes or mayonnaise, batters, pancakes, and custards.

• Dough Whisk: Dough whisks are perfect for handling tough doughs or batters without overworking the ingredients. They are used for creating decadent desserts or freshly baked bread, including brownies, muffins, pancakes, waffles, no-knead bread, scones, and Irish soda bread.

• Flat Whisk: Flat whisks, also known as roux whisks, feature looped wires in a flattened ballooned shape. They are designed to be used with shallow pans and are perfect for making roux, gravy, and pan sauces.

Whisks can also be used to mix together dry ingredients for a pastry or dessert, to make handmade whipped cream, and to drizzle melted sugar in various shapes.