Best Ice Cream Makers

Looking for the Best Ice Cream Makers to transform your kitchen into a homemade frozen treats paradise? We know how frustrating it can be to struggle with unreliable machines that leave you with disappointing results. Our expert review spotlights top-rated models that promise consistent, delicious ice cream and effortless dessert making. Discover how these powerful machines can turn ordinary moments into mouthwatering celebrations. Read on to find your perfect match for a fun, tasty journey!

Top 5 Ice Cream Makers:

1. Ninja Creami Deluxe 11-in-1 – Best Ice Cream Maker

 

 

If you want to step up your dessert game and make the creamiest ice cream at home, the Ninja Creami Deluxe has you covered. With 11 different settings, this machine lets you make a variety of frozen treats, from ice cream and gelato to frozen yogurt, sorbet and milkshakes. You’ll be surprised how reliably your creations come out — every batch is on the money, and the sorbet really does deserve special mention, its silky, icy consistency sinfully good and still pleasing after hours in the freezer.

One of my favorite things about the Ninja Creami is how simple it is to use, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced cooks. Its clearly labeled buttons and built-in timer take the guesswork out of the process, so you can focus on enjoying your delicious results. When you do run into issues with texture, the machine features special buttons that allow you to reach the perfect consistency every time.

It measures 12.07 x 6.52 x 15.95 inches and weighs 13.58 pounds, so it shouldn’t take up too much space in the kitchen. Its 800-watt motor and 24-ounce capacity mean you can whip up enough frozen goodness to satisfy your needs. Plus it’s a breeze to clean, with dishwasher-safe parts. Ninja Creami Deluxe comes with (two) storage containers and lids, so you can easily store and enjoy your homemade treats at the first desire. Happy ice cream making!

 

2. Whynter ICM-201SB– Best Large Batch Ice Cream Maker

 

 

The first thing you’ll notice after unboxing the Whynter Upright Automatic Ice Cream Maker is how incredibly sleek and tapered it looks. The setup is simple, so you can jump right into making your favorite ice cream without the trouble of pre-freezing since it’s a compressor model. You will love the generous capacity of just over 2 quarts — enough to make around four pints, ideal for filling your freezer, or staggering guests at your next party.

You’ll be happy with the results as you begin churning your ice cream. The Whynter injects air into the American-style ice cream for light, fluffy texture. Although the vegan version seems a little runny right after it’s all shaken/stirred up, it freezes stunningly well: no ice crystals whatsoever. But the star is the French-style ice cream, which is creamy, rich and silky smooth and likely to woo anyone with a sweet tooth.

Note: The Whynter does take up quite a bit of counter space and weighs 24 pounds, so consider your kitchen before bringing one home. “Now, if you are a person that entertains a lot or simply really enjoys ice cream, investing in this machine will be worth it since you will be able to have delicious homemade treats.” With measurements of 10.75 x 12.5 x 14.25 inches，it comes with a churn blade, removable mixing bowl, ice cream scoop, and more, making your ice cream-making experience fun and efficient.

 

3. Cuisinart ICE-30BCP1 – Best Compact Ice Cream Maker

 

 

If you’re looking for a compact yet efficient method of making your own decadent ice cream, this electric ice cream maker is a great addition to your kitchen. Its small footprint means it won’t crowd your countertop too much, but it can fill the fun size 1.5-quart bucket with airy, fluffy ice cream. Just turn your ice cream and fill all of your toppings right in with almost every scoop-experience the satisfaction of serving homemade frozen treats.

And you’ll be blown away by just how consistently this machine performs extremely well, ranking as one of the best performing devices out of all available models. As you get heavy into ice cream, whether sticking with flavors we know and love or striking off into strange and wonderful combinations that no one could ever dream of, this makes getting into ice cream as easy as can be.

This machine is also another point of convenience. Made for easy operation, you’ll find that it’s a snap to take apart for cleaning, helping you to skip the frustration of sticking to those hard-to-reach spots. And while none of the components are dishwasher-safe, you’ll appreciate how easy it is to clean, so you can spend more time enjoying your homemade treats rather than scrubbing them to death.

Celebrate sweet memories—the joy of cooking simple ingredients (with loved ones) into special moments! Make some homemade ice cream, enjoy the pleasure you and your family receive from this rich treat!

 

4. Whynter ICM-220CGY – Best Compressor-Style Ice Cream Maker

 

 

If you’re serious about making ice cream at home, you’ll want to invest in a compressor-based ice cream maker, such as the Whynter model. Although it is costlier than canister-style machines, the versatility is unparalleled. This handy gadget is essentially a mini freezer that can convert the most unactivated room-temperature of ingredients into tasty frozen treats at the push of a button.

The automatic timer is one of its defining features, and it’s especially useful for making ice cream and sorbet. It’s not strictly for frozen desserts; either — this machine has a gentle heating mode, making it superb for yogurt-making, so you’ll be able to branch out into different culinary creations.

In our testing of the Whynter, we were impressed by the wonderfully textured sorbet and ice cream it produced. It churned a bit more slowly than pre-frozen canister types, but it was much quicker than other models of compressor ice cream makers. There were a few minor downsides; certain ice cream and sorbet got stuck to the paddle so that transferring the mixture to a freezer-safe container would take some additional elbow grease.

This 2-quart Whynter ice cream maker is functional yet also falls within a reasonable price range, and it’s a great choice for anyone who loves to experiment with flavors in the kitchen. Note, too, that its size and weight — 16.75 x 11.25 x 10.25 inches and 24.2 pounds — means it will occupy some counter or storage space. It will be a worthy addition to your culinary arsenal if you intend to use it a lot.

 

5. Cuisinart ICE-21 – Best Budget Ice Cream Maker

 

 

For those who want to satisfy their ice cream cravings without the headache of complex gadgets, the Cuisinart ICE-21 is an excellent option. This fully automatic ice cream maker lets you whip up a batch of delicious homemade ice cream in just 20 minutes, making it the ideal answer to a spontaneous dessert moment.

The ICE-21 is easy to use and mess-free. Begin with the double-insulated freezer bowl sitting on the base and the mixing paddle and plastic cover in place. When you pour in your ice cream base, the spinning bowl and paddle scape the frozen surface, mixing it all together. You can also mix in your favorite add-ons toward the end of the churning for a little creative flourish!

You’ll see both ice cream and sorbet have a nice, smooth, even texture, though they may be a little softer than some fancier machines crank out. A few hours in the freezer makes them firm without turning your homemade treats into ice cubes: they remain creamy and scoopable.

But know that the freezer bowl must be pre-frozen, which can mean clearing some space in your freezer. Since the ICE-21 has a maximum yield of 1.5 quarts, follow recipes closely—when in doubt, your batch may be too big! The parts aren’t dishwasher-safe, but usually just need a quick rinse. Experience the joy of whipping up your very own ice cream at home with this easy-to-use machine, and enjoy delectable, homemade frozen desserts whenever the craving strikes.

 

Things to Consider Before Buying a Ice Cream Maker:

You are about to commence on a delicious journey into the world of homemade ice cream, but before you make your purchase, there are several factors to consider. From the type of machine that best suits your needs to the capacity and ease of use, understanding these elements will help you select the perfect ice cream maker for your culinary adventures. In this guide, we’ll explore the crucial points to guide you in making an informed decision that will maximize your ice cream-making experience.

Electric Ice Cream Makers

Little effort is required when using electric ice cream makers, making them a convenient option for busy households. With various styles, they allow you to whip up delicious treats with just the push of a button, often featuring built-in timers and automatic mixing features.

Manual Ice Cream Makers

To engage more intimately with the ice cream-making process, consider manual ice cream makers. These require you to crank the handle or mix the ingredients yourself, offering a hands-on experience that can be enjoyable for families or gatherings.

This traditional method allows you to appreciate the craftsmanship of ice cream making while also providing a great way to bond with family and friends during the process. Manual ice cream makers can be an excellent choice for those who enjoy the effort of creating their dessert and want to experiment with unique flavors and textures.

Capacity

Any ice cream maker you consider should have a capacity that meets your needs. If you’re making ice cream for a family or entertaining guests, opt for larger capacity models, while smaller machines suffice for individual servings or couples. Think about how often you’ll use it; higher capacity machines can save you time if you plan to whip up multiple batches.

Ease of Use

Little effort should be required to create delightful frozen treats. Look for machines with clear instructions, simple controls, and intuitive designs that make the ice cream-making process a breeze. The right model should offer hassle-free operation, allowing you to focus on enjoying your homemade ice cream, rather than wrestling with complicated machinery.

Plus, an ice cream maker with pre-set settings can help streamline the process even further, offering various options for different types of desserts. Look for models with a straightforward assembly that help you avoid time-consuming setup, allowing you to enjoy your ice cream faster.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Ease of cleaning is a significant factor when selecting an ice cream maker. Some machines come with removable parts that are dishwasher-safe, while others may require handwashing. Consider how easy it is to access all components for thorough cleaning to ensure hygiene and longevity.

To maintain your ice cream maker effectively, opt for a machine with non-stick surfaces and simple disassembly features. Models with fewer intricate parts not only simplify the cleaning process but also ensure that you can keep your equipment in excellent condition with minimal effort, thus enhancing your experience over time.

Research and Reviews

An effective way to narrow down your options is by venturing into research and customer reviews. You can explore various review sites and forums where users share their experiences. Pay close attention to comments regarding performance, reliability, and overall satisfaction. You may also find tips and tricks that enhance product usage.

Brand Reputation

The reputation of the brand you choose can significantly impact your ice cream-making success. It’s wise to opt for brands with a solid history of producing reliable kitchen appliances.

With established brands, you often benefit from better customer support, warranties, and access to quality parts. A well-regarded brand signals trustworthiness and can lead to greater satisfaction with your purchase. Plus, recognized brands frequently consumer-test their products, ensuring that they meet high standards for performance and durability. Investing in a reputable brand means investing in long-term happiness with your ice cream maker.

Making the Purchase

On reaching a decision, ensure you choose a trustworthy retailer, whether online or in-store. Look for warranties, return policies, and customer service options to safeguard your purchase.

Buying an ice cream maker can be an exciting investment. As you finalize the purchase, don’t hesitate to seek sales or discounts, and make sure you fully understand the features and maintenance required to enjoy delicious homemade ice cream for years to come.

Regular Cleaning

Some of the most important maintenance tasks include regular cleaning of all parts after each use. This helps prevent residual buildup that can affect the taste and texture of your ice cream. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for cleaning, ensuring you disassemble removable parts and wash them properly.

Proper Storage

Any ice cream maker should be stored carefully to prolong its life. Ensure that it is completely dry before putting it away to prevent mold and bacteria growth. Avoid placing heavy items on top of it, which might distort its shape or damage its components.

Understanding how to store your ice cream maker correctly can make a significant difference in its lifespan. A dedicated space in a kitchen cabinet or pantry is ideal, keeping it out of direct sunlight and extreme temperature changes. This way, your ice cream maker will be ready for use whenever you feel like whipping up a delicious batch of homemade ice cream.

To wrap up

With this in mind, before investing in an ice cream maker, evaluate your preference for manual versus automatic machines, your available space, and how frequently you plan to make ice cream. Consider the various features, such as ease of cleaning, capacity, and the ability to make other frozen treats. By assessing these factors, you can choose a machine that best suits your lifestyle and enhances your ice cream-making experience.