I am not sure what they used to do before we had things like electric mixers. I guess the women in those days must have had stronger arms to be able to beat the batter to the point that it was smooth and fluffy like cake batter after you use an electric mixer. One thing I know after looking at some mixer reviews is that I cam very grateful for all the little things we have in life, like electric mixers and other things that make life a little easier for everyone. I will never take all those little things for granted.