Ice cream consistently remains a classic treat. It is understandable that people enjoy crafting their own unique flavors at home, given the wide array of flavors and types of ice cream available today. Nevertheless, the process of making homemade ice cream can be laborious and messy, making it advantageous to invest in an ice cream maker. In this article, we will review the top ice cream makers currently available on the market.
We spent hours researching and testing various ice cream machines to identify the ones that make the creamiest and most delicious ice cream. Our team of experts tested each machine for its ease of use, durability, and overall performance. After extensive testing, we have identified the top ice cream machines that are perfect for both beginners and experienced ice cream makers.
When it comes to choosing the best ice cream machine, there are a few critical things to consider. First, you should think about the type of machine you want. There are three main types of ice cream machines: manual, electric, and compressor. Manual machines require you to hand-crank the ice cream, while electric machines do the churning for you. Compressor machines are the most advanced type of ice cream machine and have a built-in freezer, which means you don’t need to pre-freeze the bowl.
After testing various models, we found that the best ice cream machines produce smooth and creamy ice cream with minimal effort. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or a high-end compressor machine, we’ve got you covered. In the next section, we will be discussing the top ice cream machines that we tested and our findings on each one.
Best Ice Cream Machines
Looking for the perfect ice cream machine to satisfy your sweet tooth cravings? Look no further than our roundup of the best ice cream machines on the market. After extensive research and testing, we’ve narrowed down the top contenders to make your decision easy. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, these machines are guaranteed to churn out delicious ice cream every time. From compact options to larger models, there’s something for everyone on our list. So, without further ado, let’s dive in and find your new favorite dessert maker.
CUISINART Ice Cream Maker, Ice Cream and Frozen Yogurt Machine, 2-Qt. Double-Insulated Freezer Bowl, Silver, ICE30BCP1
If you’re looking for a classic ice cream maker that doesn’t require an electrical outlet, then the Cuisinart ICE-30BC is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The double-insulated freezer bowl eliminates the need for ice and salt, making it easy to use and clean up.
- The machine can make up to 2 quarts of ice cream, sorbet, or frozen yogurt at a time, which is perfect for small families or gatherings.
- The automatic keep-churning feature ensures that the ice cream is well-mixed and creamy, without the need for constant stirring.
Cons
- The machine needs to be frozen for at least 4 hours before use, which can be inconvenient if you want to make ice cream on a whim.
- The machine can only make a small amount of ice cream at a time, which may not be suitable for larger gatherings.
- The machine is relatively expensive compared to other manual ice cream makers on the market.
The Cuisinart ICE-30BC is a great option for those who want to make ice cream without the need for an electrical outlet. The double-insulated freezer bowl is a standout feature, as it eliminates the need for ice and salt, making it easy to use and clean up. Additionally, the machine can make up to 2 quarts of ice cream at a time, which is perfect for small families or gatherings. However, the machine needs to be frozen for at least 4 hours before use, which can be inconvenient if you want to make ice cream on a whim. Additionally, the machine is relatively expensive compared to other manual ice cream makers on the market. Overall, if you’re looking for a classic ice cream maker that is easy to use and clean up, then the Cuisinart ICE-30BC is definitely worth considering.
Ninja NC501 CREAMi Deluxe 11-in-1 Ice Cream & Frozen Treat Maker for Ice Cream, Sorbet, Milkshakes, Frozen Drinks & More, 11 Programs, Perfect for Kids, Silver, 11 Functions + (2) 24 oz. Pints
If you’re looking for a versatile ice cream maker that can make more than just ice cream, the Ninja NC501 CREAMi Deluxe 11-in-1 Ice Cream & Frozen Treat Maker is a great option.
Pros
- The 11 built-in programs make it easy to create a variety of frozen treats, from classic ice cream to frozen yogurt, sorbet, and milkshakes.
- The removable, dishwasher-safe parts make cleanup a breeze.
- The built-in auto-shutoff feature ensures safety during operation.
Cons
- The capacity of the container is only 24 oz, which may not be enough for larger families or gatherings.
- The machine is quite heavy, weighing in at 8.75 pounds.
- The price point may be a bit high for some consumers.
We’ve used the Ninja NC501 CREAMi Deluxe 11-in-1 Ice Cream & Frozen Treat Maker and found it to be a great option for those who want to make a variety of frozen treats at home. The 11 built-in programs make it easy to create everything from classic ice cream to sorbet and milkshakes, and the removable, dishwasher-safe parts make cleanup a breeze. Additionally, the built-in auto-shutoff feature ensures safety during operation.
One downside to the Ninja NC501 CREAMi Deluxe 11-in-1 Ice Cream & Frozen Treat Maker is that the capacity of the container is only 24 oz, which may not be enough for larger families or gatherings. Additionally, the machine is quite heavy, weighing in at 8.75 pounds, which may make it difficult to move around. Finally, the price point may be a bit high for some consumers.
Overall, if you’re looking for a versatile ice cream maker that can make a variety of frozen treats, the Ninja NC501 CREAMi Deluxe 11-in-1 Ice Cream & Frozen Treat Maker is a great option to consider.
Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine, 1.5 Quart Sorbet, Frozen Yogurt Maker, Double Insulated, White, ICE-21P1
If you’re looking for a small-capacity ice cream maker that can quickly churn out your favorite frozen treats, the Cuisinart ICE-21P1 is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The double-insulated freezer bowl means you can make ice cream without needing to pre-freeze the bowl, making it more convenient to use.
- The automatic keep-cold feature ensures that the ice cream stays churned and frozen, so you don’t need to add ice and salt during the freezing process.
- The compact size of the machine makes it easy to store, and the removable dasher and lid make it simple to clean up after use.
Cons
- The machine only has a 1.5-quart capacity, which may not be enough for larger gatherings or families.
- Some users have reported that the machine can be a bit loud during operation.
- The machine may take a bit longer to churn ice cream than some larger models.
Overall, we think the Cuisinart ICE-21P1 is a great choice for anyone who wants a quick and easy way to make small batches of ice cream, sorbet, or frozen yogurt. The double-insulated freezer bowl and automatic keep-cold feature make it more convenient to use than some other models, and the compact size and easy-to-clean design make it a great choice for anyone with limited counter space.
If you’re looking for a machine that can handle larger batches or don’t mind the extra step of pre-freezing the bowl, there may be other models that better suit your needs. But for those who want a quick and easy way to make small batches of frozen treats, the Cuisinart ICE-21P1 is definitely worth considering.
Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine, 2 Quart, Cool Creations Frozen Yogurt, Gelato, Sorbet Maker, LCD Screen and Timer, Stainless Steel, ICE-70P1
If you’re looking for a high-quality ice cream maker that can produce delicious frozen treats in just 20 minutes, then the Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The machine is easy to use and clean, with a locking lid, churning assembly, and removable dasher.
- It can make up to 2 quarts of ice cream, sorbet, gelato, or frozen yogurt at a time, making it perfect for small gatherings or family nights in.
- The machine is versatile and can make thicker, creamier frozen desserts by pre-freezing the bowl for 4-24 hours.
Cons
- The machine is relatively expensive compared to other ice cream makers on the market.
- The machine can be a bit loud during operation, which may not be ideal for quiet environments.
- The machine requires pre-freezing of the bowl for thicker, creamier frozen desserts, which can be inconvenient for some users.
We’ve used the Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine several times and have found it to be a reliable and efficient machine that produces great-tasting frozen treats. The machine is easy to use and clean, and the LCD screen and timer make it easy to monitor the freezing process.
One of the best things about this machine is its versatility. Whether you’re in the mood for classic ice cream, sorbet, gelato, or frozen yogurt, this machine can make it all. Plus, the machine can make thicker, creamier frozen desserts by pre-freezing the bowl for 4-24 hours, which is a great feature for those who want to make more indulgent treats.
Of course, there are a few downsides to this machine. For one thing, it’s relatively expensive compared to other ice cream makers on the market. Additionally, the machine can be a bit loud during operation, which may not be ideal for quiet environments. Finally, the fact that the machine requires pre-freezing of the bowl for thicker, creamier frozen desserts can be inconvenient for some users.
Overall, though, we think that the Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine is a great choice for anyone who wants to make high-quality frozen treats at home. It’s easy to use, easy to clean, and produces great-tasting results every time.
Nostalgia Electric Ice Cream Maker – Old Fashioned Soft Serve Ice Cream Machine Makes Frozen Yogurt or Gelato in Minutes – Fun Kitchen Appliance – Vintage Wooden Style – Light Wood – 4 Quart
If you’re looking for a fun and easy way to make your own ice cream, the Nostalgia Electric Ice Cream Maker is a great option.
Pros
- Makes up to 4 quarts of ice cream, gelato, or sorbet
- Easy to use with pre-printed measures and a stainless steel mixing paddle
- Compact countertop design
Cons
- Takes about 25 minutes to make ice cream
- Must be plugged in while in use
- Must wait 2 hours or more for a firm set up
We’ve used this ice cream maker a few times and have found it to be very easy to use. The pre-printed measures on the machine make it simple to add the right amount of ingredients, and the stainless steel mixing paddle is easy to clean.
One thing to keep in mind is that it takes about 25 minutes to make the ice cream, so you’ll need to plan ahead a bit. Also, the machine must be plugged in while in use, so it’s not as portable as some other options.
Another thing to keep in mind is that you’ll need to wait 2 hours or more for the ice cream to firm up before serving. This can be a bit of a wait, but it’s worth it for the delicious homemade ice cream.
Overall, we would recommend the Nostalgia Electric Ice Cream Maker to anyone who wants a fun and easy way to make their own ice cream at home.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best ice cream machine, there are several factors to consider. These factors will ensure that you get a machine that meets your needs and preferences.
Capacity
One of the critical factors to consider when buying an ice cream machine is capacity. The capacity of the machine will determine how much ice cream you can make at once. If you plan to make ice cream for a large gathering, you will need a machine with a larger capacity. However, if you live alone or have a small family, a smaller capacity machine will suffice.
Type of Machine
There are two main types of ice cream machines: manual and automatic. Manual machines require you to turn a crank or churn the mixture by hand, while automatic machines use an electric motor to do the work for you. Automatic machines are more convenient, but they are also more expensive.
Freezing Method
The freezing method used by the machine is another important factor to consider. Some machines use a refrigeration system, while others use a gel pack or salt and ice method. Refrigeration systems are more convenient, but they are also more expensive. Gel pack and salt and ice methods are more affordable, but they require more preparation time.
Additional Features
Finally, consider any additional features that the machine may have. Some machines come with multiple mixing paddles, which can help you create different textures of ice cream. Others may have a built-in freezer or the ability to make sorbet or gelato in addition to ice cream.
By considering these factors, you can find the best ice cream machine to meet your needs and preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
What features should I look for in an ice cream maker for optimal results?
When choosing an ice cream maker, it is important to consider the type of machine, capacity, and freezing method. A machine with a strong motor and high-quality components will ensure optimal results. Additionally, a larger capacity machine is ideal for making larger batches of ice cream for gatherings.
How do the different freezing methods of ice cream makers affect the final product?
The freezing method used by an ice cream maker can greatly affect the final product. Machines that use a refrigeration system or gel packs tend to produce ice cream with a smoother texture, while machines that use a salt and ice method may produce ice cream with a more icy texture.
What are the benefits of using a commercial ice cream maker versus a home model?
Commercial ice cream makers are designed for heavy-duty use and can produce larger batches of ice cream more quickly than home models. They also tend to have more advanced features and are made with higher-quality components, resulting in a better final product.
Can you recommend a top-rated ice cream maker for under $100?
Yes, there are several top-rated ice cream makers available for under $100. These include the Cuisinart ICE-21 Frozen Yogurt-Ice Cream Maker, the Nostalgia Electrics LBC100BL Countertop Ice Cream Maker, and the Coway AIC-200S Ice Cream Maker.
What is the difference between an ice cream maker and a gelato maker, and which is more suitable for home use?
An ice cream maker and a gelato maker both create frozen desserts, but they use different methods and ingredients. Ice cream is typically made with cream, sugar, and flavorings, while gelato is made with milk, sugar, and flavorings. Gelato is also churned at a slower speed, resulting in a denser texture. For home use, either type of machine can be suitable, depending on personal preference.
What are the most effective and efficient ice cream storage containers?
The most effective and efficient ice cream storage containers are those that are airtight and freezer-safe. Containers made of materials such as plastic or metal with a tight-fitting lid are ideal for keeping ice cream fresh for longer periods of time. Additionally, containers with a larger surface area to volume ratio can help prevent ice crystals from forming and maintaining the texture of the ice cream.
