Cuisinart Food Processor 14-Cup DFP-14BCNY Review Best for Chopping and Shredding

Description

Design and Build Quality

I was immediately drawn to the Cuisinart DFP-14BCNY due to its sleek stainless steel finish and sturdy construction. The 14-cup work bowl is generously sized, making it ideal for preparing meals for a family or even a small gathering. It feels solid and well-built; you can tell this machine isn’t going to fall apart after a few uses. What I appreciated most, though, was the extra-large feed tube. It comfortably fits whole fruits and vegetables, which saves me the hassle of pre-chopping. The simplicity of the on and off/pulse buttons is refreshing in a world overwhelmed by overly complex interfaces.

That said, the design isn’t perfect. At 18 pounds, it’s not exactly what I’d call portable. I found myself designating a specific countertop spot for it because moving it around felt like a workout. Also, while the detachable disc stem is convenient for cleanup, the lack of adjustable slicing and shredding blades felt like a missed opportunity.

Ease of Use

Using this food processor is a breeze. It only has one speed, but the 720-watt motor ensures it powers through even the toughest ingredients. I tested it on carrots, cheese, and even almonds, and it handled them all with ease. The included stainless-steel slicing disc (4mm), medium shredding disc, and chopping/mixing blade all performed impressively, making the machine versatile for tasks like shredding cheese, kneading dough, and pureeing sauces.

What made my life easier were the dishwasher-safe parts, which meant I didn’t have to spend ages scrubbing away at stubborn food residue. The included spatula was a thoughtful addition that came in handy for scraping down the bowl. However, the manual setup instructions could have been clearer. I spent a couple of minutes fumbling with the bowl sleeve assembly before I got it right.

Key Benefits

• Generous 14-cup capacity that accommodates large quantities.
• Powerful 720-watt motor handles tough ingredients effortlessly.
• Dishwasher-safe components simplify cleaning.
• Extra-large feed tube minimizes prep time.

Performance and Versatility

This processor is a workhorse. From whipping up batches of hummus to shredding zucchini for bread, it didn’t break a sweat. The ability to knead dough was particularly impressive. As someone who bakes a lot, I loved that it could handle large batches of dough without overheating or stalling. The stainless-steel chopping blade is razor-sharp and made light work of onions, which I usually dread chopping by hand.

However, I did notice one limitation: the shredding and slicing blades aren’t adjustable. This means you get one fixed size for your cuts, which may not suit every recipe. Also, while the motor is incredibly powerful, it’s not the quietest. It’s not deafening, but don’t expect to have a peaceful conversation while it’s running.

Downsides

• Heavy design makes it less portable.
• Non-adjustable slicing and shredding blades limit customization.
• Loud motor can be disruptive in quieter households.

Competing Products

Compared to its rivals, this food processor holds its own. For instance, the KitchenAid 13-Cup model offers adjustable slicing, which is a feature I wish this one had. However, the Cuisinart model’s 720-watt motor outperforms many other processors in its price range, making it better suited for heavy-duty tasks. The Breville Sous Chef, while more advanced with multiple blade options, comes at a much higher price point and doesn’t feel as sturdy.

Where this processor truly shines is its simplicity and reliability. While others may focus on additional features, this one prioritizes durability and consistent performance, which I found more valuable for everyday use.

Smart Spending

The Cuisinart DFP-14BCNY strikes a good balance between performance and affordability. It doesn’t have all the bells and whistles of high-end models, but it delivers where it counts: power, capacity, and ease of use. If you’re someone who values functionality over fancy features, this is a smart investment. It’s not the cheapest option out there, but given its durable build and versatile capabilities, it offers excellent value for its price.

This food processor has become a staple in my kitchen. While it’s not perfect, its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses. Whether you’re a casual cook or a serious home chef, this machine can handle whatever you throw at it.

Additional information