Contents
- The Top 8
- Top 8 Ice Cream Makers Reviewed in Detail
- 1. Editor’s Choice
- 2. Runner-Up
- 3. Most Versatile
- 4. Best Heavy-Duty
- 5. Best Splurge
- 6. Best Value
- 7. Best Lightweight
- 8. Best for Daily Use
- Ice Cream Makers Compared Side by Side
- How to Choose Ice Cream Makers
- How We Reviewed
- Frequently asked questions
- What to look for
In this ice cream maker buying guide, you need to choose the right machine for your kitchen. The Nostalgia Electric Ice Cream Maker is the best pick. It has a 4-quart capacity, which lets you make a large batch of ice cream quickly. The Cuisinart 1.5 Quart model is a great budget option, but you will sacrifice capacity and speed with a smaller batch size.
Most buyers face a choice between larger capacity and quicker batch times. Larger machines can make more at once, while smaller ones are often faster. This guide helps you compare options and find the best fit for your home.
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The Top 8
Top 8 Ice Cream Makers Reviewed in Detail
The following reviews detail the best ice cream makers available today. Each review covers essential features and uses.
1. Editor’s Choice
Nostalgia Electric Ice Cream Maker With 4 Qt Capacity- Old Fashioned Ice Cream Machine Makes Frozen Yogurt or Gelato in Minutes- Vintage Wooden Style Ice…
- Effortless Ice Cream in Minutes: Say goodbye to the hassle of manual churning and hello to the convenience of this ice cream maker. With our powerful electric ice cream maker machine, you’ll have up to 4 quarts of rich, creamy ice cream ready in no time. Whether you’re craving a classic treat or a soft serve indulgence, this ice cream maker machine takes the work out of the process, leaving you with delicious, homemade ice cream in minutes-perfect for family fun or last-minute gatherings.
- Endless Frozen Dessert Possibilities: Why settle for one flavor when you can make it all? This homemade ice cream maker opens up a world of frozen dessert options. From indulgent gelato made with the gelato maker feature to smooth frozen yogurt, this ice cream machine lets you enjoy a wide variety of frozen treats right in your own kitchen. Forget overpriced store-bought options-create unique, creamy desserts exactly how you like them, every time.
- Fun for Kids and Family: Want to turn dessert into a fun, family bonding experience? This ice cream maker for kids is the answer! The soft serve ice cream maker is safe, simple, and designed for young hands, so your kids can make their own delicious ice cream in no time. Whether it’s a birthday, a playdate, or just a fun afternoon, this old-fashioned ice cream adds excitement to the process of creating soft-serve treats, making it the perfect way to engage kids and make family time even sweeter.
- Classic Design Meets Modern Convenience: Love the vintage charm of an old-fashioned ice cream maker but hate the old-school effort? This vintage wooden style ice cream machine combines nostalgic appeal with modern efficiency. Powered by an electric ice cream maker, it makes rich, creamy soft serve or traditional ice cream without the tedious labor. Get the best of both worlds-timeless design and hassle-free operation, so you can enjoy delicious homemade ice cream in no time.
The Nostalgia Electric Ice Cream Maker is charming and efficient. It makes up to 4 quarts of ice cream, frozen yogurt, or gelato in a short time. Users appreciate its retro design and ease of use. This model is electric, so no manual churning is needed.
Pros
Large capacity of 4 quarts. Easy to operate with electric power. Attractive vintage wooden style.
Cons
Takes up more space than smaller models. Some users may find the design bulky.
Great for families or gatherings. Ideal if you want to make large batches quickly.
This ice cream maker is a fun and efficient choice for ice cream lovers who enjoy classic designs.
2. Runner-Up
Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine, Ready in 20, 1.5 qt Freezer Bowl
- SUPERIOR FUNCTION: Mixing paddle makes frozen treats in 20 minutes or less (freezer bowl must be pre-frozen).
- COOL FEATURE: Double-insulated freezer bowl eliminates the need for ice.
- CAPACITY: This ice cream maker can produce up to 1.5 quarts of your favorite ice cream or frozen yogurt.
- EASY TO USE: Ice cream machine features an easy-lock transparent lid with large spout to make adding ingredients simple and mess free.
- LIMITED 3-YEAR WARRANTY: The BPA-free Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine comes with a limited 3-year warranty.
The Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine is compact and fast. It can create 1.5 quarts of ice cream in just 20 minutes. Users love its double-insulated freezer bowl, which removes the need for ice.
Pros
Quick preparation time of 20 minutes. Double-insulated bowl is easy to use. Compact design fits in most kitchens.
Cons
Requires pre-freezing the bowl. Limited capacity compared to larger models.
Perfect for small families or couples. Works well for those who want quick treats without a large machine.
This Cuisinart model is ideal for those who want fast and easy homemade ice cream in a small package.
3. Most Versatile
Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine, Fully Automatic, 2 qt, ICE-30BCP1ES
- DOUBLE-INSULATED FREEZER BOWL: Holds 2 qts of ice cream, yogurt, sorbet, sherbet, or frozen drinks (pre-freeze first).
- SUPERIOR FUNCTIONALITY: The brushed stainless steel ice cream machine features a fully automatic heavy-duty motor to make frozen desserts or drinks in under 30 minutes.
- MUST-HAVE FEATURES: Large ingredient spout for easily adding favorite mix-ins, including retractable cord storage that keeps countertops clutter-free.
- WHAT’S INCLUDED: Frozen yogurt machine comes with a double-insulated freezer bowl that holds up to 2 quarts of frozen dessert, and paddle.
- LIMITED 3-YEAR WARRANTY: The BPA-free Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine ICE30BCP1 comes with a limited 3-year warranty.
Another solid choice is the Cuisinart Fully Automatic Ice Cream Maker. It makes 2 quarts of ice cream in under 30 minutes. The brushed stainless steel design adds a modern touch.
Pros
Fully automatic operation makes it very user-friendly. Stylish stainless steel finish. Good capacity for medium-sized batches.
Cons
Needs the bowl pre-frozen, similar to other models. Some users may find the learning curve a bit steep.
Great for families who want a balance of size and speed. Suitable for those who enjoy a modern aesthetic in their kitchen.
This model is an excellent choice for those looking for style and ease of use in their ice cream maker.
4. Best Heavy-Duty
Ninja® CREAMi® 7-in-1 Ice Cream Maker, Ice Cream, Gelato & more, NC299AMZ
- 7-IN-1 ICE CREAM MAKER — A FROZEN TREAT FOR EVERY CRAVING: Choose from 7 one-touch programs — Ice Cream, Gelato, Sorbet, Milkshake, Smoothie Bowl, Lite Ice Cream, and Mix-In –each delivering the perfect combination of speed, pressure, and time for soft, creamy results.
- CREAMIFY TECHNOLOGY — INCREDIBLY SMOOTH, CREAMY RESULTS: Ninja’s exclusive Creamify Technology finely shaves through a uniformly frozen pint, transforming it into smooth textured frozen desserts in minutes.
- MAKE IT YOUR WAY — TOTAL INGREDIENT CONTROL: Create protein-packed ice cream, low-sugar sorbet, dairy-free treats, and vegan options — all from scratch with ingredients you choose. No preservatives, no fillers, just the flavors you love.
- MIX-INS — BUILD YOUR PERFECT PINT: After processing, mix in your favorite mix-ins – chocolate chips, candy, nuts, fruit, cookies, and more — to customize every scoop. The Mix-In program distributes add-ins evenly throughout your frozen treat.
- THREE STEPS TO YOUR PERFECT FROZEN TREAT: Prep your base, freeze for 24 hours, and process in minutes. The Re-spin function lets you process a second time for an even softer, creamier texture — no guesswork.
- EASY TO CLEAN — DISHWASHER SAFE: The pint containers, storage lids, and Creamerizer Paddle are all top-rack dishwasher safe for fast, hassle-free cleanup after every treat.
- PINT COMPATIBILITY — IMPORTANT: This unit is compatible with Ninja CREAMi NC299 andNC300 series pint accessories only. It is NOT compatible with NC100, NC200, NC500 or NC700 series pints. To confirm your unit, check the SKU number on the bottom of your machine.
- FAMILY-FRIENDLY & EASY TO USE: One-touch programs makes it easy for everyone to enjoy the fun of homemade frozen desserts
- WHAT’S INCLUDED: Motor Base with 7 One-Touch Programs, (1) 16-oz. CREAMi Pint with Storage Lid, Creamerizer Paddle, and Outer Bowl with Lid. | 800W | 120V / 60Hz. Recipe guide Included
The Ninja CREAMi Ice Cream Maker offers 7 programs. It can make ice cream, gelato, and more with a single button press. Many enjoy its versatility and smooth results.
Pros
Offers various settings for different frozen treats. Easy operation with one-touch programs. Produces creamy, soft textures.
Cons
Takes up more counter space than basic models. Some users may need time to explore all settings.
Ideal for creative cooks wanting diverse frozen desserts. Suitable for those who appreciate technology in the kitchen.
This ice cream maker is for adventurous cooks who want to make a variety of frozen delights easily.
5. Best Splurge
Elite Gourmet EIM1750 Self-Churning Electric 1Qt. Ice Cream Maker, Homemade Ice Cream, Gelato, Sorbet & Frozen Yogurt in Under 20 Minutes, No Ice or Salt…
- QUICK & EASY HOMEMADE TREATS: Make creamy homemade ice cream, gelato, sorbet, or frozen yogurt in under 20 minutes. The pre-freeze bowl design means no rock salt, no buying ice every time, and no salty cleanup, just freeze the bowl ahead, pour in your chilled mixture, and press start.
- PERFECT 1-QUART FAMILY SIZE: A 24-ounce batch makes approximately four generous servings ideal for family dessert nights, weekend BBQs, birthday parties, picnics, and after-dinner cravings. Big enough to share, compact enough to fit on any countertop or store in a pantry between uses.
- PERFECT SIZE FOR TWO TO FOUR: The 1-quart freezer bowl yields up to 3 cups of freshly churned ice cream per batch, just right for couples, small families, or satisfying that late-night craving without making too much. Compact enough to live on any countertop and store easily in a cabinet or pantry between uses, with a freezer bowl that stays ready in your freezer for whenever the next craving hits.
- 4 FROZEN TREATS, 1 MACHINE: One countertop appliance churns out ice cream, gelato, sorbet, and frozen yogurt from your favorite fresh ingredients. The included recipe book features 25+ tested recipes, vanilla, chocolate, mint chocolate chip, strawberry cheesecake, rocky road, cookie dough, peach gelato, strawberry gelato, lemon raspberry sorbet, coconut lime sorbet, frozen yogurt, and more.
- INGREDIENT CHUTE FOR MIX-INS & EASY CLEANUP: Drop in chocolate chips, crushed cookies, nuts, fresh fruit, or candy pieces through the lid chute mid-churn without stopping the machine or losing texture. Removable lid, mixing paddle, freezer bowl, and outer container make hand-wash cleanup quick and stress-free between batches.
The Elite Gourmet Self-Churning Electric Ice Cream Maker is a budget-friendly option. It makes 1 quart of ice cream in under 20 minutes. It features a pre-freeze bowl design that simplifies the process.
Pros
Quick preparation time and no need for ice or salt. Budget-friendly without sacrificing quality. Compact size is easy to store.
Cons
Smaller capacity may not suit larger groups. Limited features compared to more expensive models.
Best for individuals or small families. Great for those who want quick and easy treats on a budget.
This model is a smart choice for home cooks looking for an affordable, simple ice cream maker.
6. Best Value
Dash My Mug Ice Cream Maker 2 Pack Bundle, Half-Pint Freezer Mugs, Aqua
- Frozen Treats Made Easy at Home: The Dash My Mug small Ice Cream Maker churns creamy soft serve for two; each Mug chills 24 to 48 hours, so freeze both, and one is always ready with one touch
- Soft Serve in About 20 Minutes: This mini Ice Cream Maker churns small-batch ice cream, gelato, non-dairy nice cream, sorbet, and frozen yogurt with ease, then eat right from the Mug
- Built-In Ingredient Chute: Add chocolate chips, sprinkles, fruit, nuts, or cookie dough near the end of churning for custom mix-ins; endless flavor possibilities for the whole family
- Compact & Easy to Clean: This electric Ice Cream Maker disassembles in seconds for quick hand washing, and everything nests inside the Mugs with the SmartStore design for space-saving cabinet storage
- A Gift for Every Ice Cream Lover: Sweeten date nights, dorm rooms, and kids’ sleepovers; a fun birthday or holiday gift that turns family movie nights into homemade soft serve
The Dash My Mug Ice Cream Maker is a unique small option. It churns soft serve for two in about 20 minutes. Each mug can chill for up to 48 hours.
Pros
Compact and portable design. Makes soft serve ice cream quickly. Includes two mugs for sharing.
Cons
Limited capacity; not suitable for larger groups. May not appeal to those wanting a traditional ice cream texture.
Perfect for couples or individuals wanting small batches. Great for kids and easy to use for family fun.
This ice cream maker is excellent for small servings and makes sharing fun and easy.
7. Best Lightweight
Nostalgia Electric Ice Cream Maker – Old Fashioned Soft Serve Ice Cream Machine Makes Frozen Yogurt or Gelato in Minutes – Fun Kitchen Appliance – Blue – 4…
- HOMEMADE ICE CREAM: Enjoy a fun ice cream experience with modern convenience with our ice cream machines. Make ice cream, frozen yogurt, or gelato, or choose your favorite flavor and make a unique and delicious creation.
- NOSTALGIA ICE CREAM KITS: Our ice cream machines for home pair perfectly with all Nostalgia ice cream kits. Try the vanilla crème, chocolate, and strawberry ice cream mix or the premium starter kit, which is excellent for a party or snack time.
- QUICK AND EASY: Make homemade ice cream in 20 minutes. The powerful electric motor does all the churning and work for you. There is no more intensive stirring or manual effort, and the motor locks into place to keep all parts secure.
- CONVENIENT HANDLE: Take the gelato maker to parties or the neighbor’s house. It has a carrying handle attached to the bucket, making it easy to move no matter where it needs to go.
- NOSTALGIA: From designs inspired by early 20th century America to the timeless appeal of our appliances, we offer unique, novel, and fun products for the family. We preserve the past, embrace the present, and look forward to the future.
The Nostalgia Electric Ice Cream Maker can make soft serve quickly. It can create various frozen treats like ice cream and gelato. Its fun design adds a playful touch to any kitchen.
Pros
Versatile machine for different frozen desserts. Easy to operate and clean. Unique retro look enhances kitchen decor.
Cons
Requires more space than basic models. May not be suitable for quick single servings.
Great for families and gatherings. Good for those who enjoy a fun approach to ice cream making.
This machine is a fun and effective choice for creating homemade frozen treats.
8. Best for Daily Use
Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine, 1.5 Quart Double Insulated Machine, Sorbet and Frozen Yogurt Maker, Ready in 20 Minutes, ICE-21RP1, Red
- SUPERIOR FUNCTION: Mixing paddle makes frozen treats in 20 minutes or less (freezer bowl must be pre-frozen).
- COOL FEATURE: Double-insulated freezer bowl eliminates the need for ice.
- CAPACITY: This ice cream maker can produce up to 1-1/2 quarts of your favorite ice cream or frozen yogurt.
- EASY TO USE: Ice cream machine features an easy-lock transparent lid with large spout to make adding ingredients simple and mess free.
- LIMITED 3-YEAR WARRANTY: The BPA-free Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine comes with a limited 3-year warranty.
The Cuisinart 1.5 Quart Ice Cream Maker is compact and efficient. It can make frozen yogurt or ice cream in just 20 minutes. The double-insulated bowl helps eliminate the need for ice.
Pros
Quick make time of 20 minutes. Compact size is easy to store. Good for making frozen treats with little hassle.
Cons
Bowl needs to be pre-frozen. Smaller capacity may not suffice for larger gatherings.
Ideal for small households or those with limited kitchen space. Works well for anyone who enjoys quick homemade ice cream.
This Cuisinart model is a practical choice for busy individuals who love homemade ice cream.
Ice Cream Makers Compared Side by Side
The table below compares key features of each ice cream maker. Columns include capacity, special features, and ease of use. Use this ice cream maker buying guide to help choose the right model for your needs.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nostalgia Electric Ice Cream Maker With 4 Qt Capacity-… | Editor's Choice | Nostalgia | $49.99 | Check |
| 2 | Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine | Runner-Up | Cuisinart | $69.31 | Check |
| 3 | Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine | Most Versatile | Cuisinart | $99.94 | Check |
| 4 | Ninja® CREAMi® 7-in-1 Ice Cream Maker | Best Heavy-Duty | SharkNinja | $169.99 | Check |
| 5 | Elite Gourmet EIM1750 Self-Churning Electric 1Qt. Ice… | Best Splurge | Elite Gourmet | $29.99 | Check |
| 6 | Dash My Mug Ice Cream Maker 2 Pack Bundle | Best Value | StoreBound LLC | $44.99 | Check |
| 7 | Nostalgia Electric Ice Cream Maker | Best Lightweight | Nostalgia Products | $39.99 | Check |
| 8 | Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine | Best for Daily Use | Cuisinart | $69.95 | Check |
| 9 | Elite Gourmet EIM350 4Qt 50W Electric Ice Cream Maker | — | Elite Gourmet | $39.99 | Check |
Prices come from Amazon and change often. The price on Amazon at checkout is the one that applies.
How to Choose Ice Cream Makers
Capacity Matters
When picking an ice cream maker, capacity is key. If you have a large family or plan to entertain, consider a model with a bigger capacity. Machines like the Nostalgia Electric Ice Cream Maker hold up to 4 quarts. For smaller households, a 1.5-quart model may suffice. Aim for at least 2 quarts if you want to make enough for friends or family gatherings.
Freezer Bowl vs. Ice
Some ice cream makers require ice and salt, while others use a pre-frozen bowl. Models with double-insulated bowls, like the Cuisinart machines, eliminate the need for ice. This makes cleaning easier. If you want convenience, choose a model that uses a freezer bowl. Always check how long it needs to freeze before use.
Speed of Churning
Different machines churn ice cream at varying speeds. A quick churn time is around 20 minutes. The Cuisinart models can produce ice cream in 20 minutes or less, while others may take longer. If you want a treat fast, look for machines that advertise quick churning times.
Ease of Use
Look for an ice cream maker that is easy to operate. Some require more steps or extra ingredients. Machines like the Elite Gourmet offer a simple one-button operation. Read reviews on user-friendliness to make sure you enjoy making ice cream without hassle.
Versatility for Different Treats
Some ice cream makers can create more than just ice cream. The Ninja CREAMi offers options for gelato, sorbet, and milkshakes. If you want to experiment with different frozen desserts, consider a versatile machine. Check the product description for a list of treats a machine can make.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
Our data comes from product specifications, customer reviews, and manufacturer information. We reviewed several trusted retailers to gather details on each ice cream maker’s features and user experiences. This helps ensure accuracy in our recommendations.
How we built this shortlist
We started with over 30 ice cream makers available on the market. We filtered through specifications, popularity, and user reviews to narrow down the choices. This shortlist focuses on various capacities, features, and customer satisfaction.
What we ruled out and why
We ruled out models that had poor customer ratings or repeated complaints about performance. Products lacking essential features like capacity or ease of use were also eliminated. This ensures we recommend only reliable and user-friendly machines.
What we did not do
No products were tested by hand, and no lab measurements were taken. We also did not invent scores or personal experiences. All assessments are based on data collected from various sources.
How often this page is updated
This page is updated regularly to include the latest ice cream makers and changes in specifications. We review customer feedback and product releases to keep our information fresh and accurate. Check back frequently for the most current recommendations.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best ice cream maker for home use?
The best ice cream maker for home use is the Nostalgia Electric Ice Cream Maker. It has a large capacity of 4 quarts and is easy to operate.
How long does it take to make ice cream?
Most ice cream makers take around 20 to 30 minutes to churn ice cream. Some models, like Cuisinart, can complete this in under 20 minutes.
Can I make other frozen treats?
Yes, many ice cream makers can make gelato, sorbet, and frozen yogurt. The Ninja CREAMi is particularly versatile with seven options.
How do I clean my ice cream maker?
To clean your ice cream maker, remove the bowl and wash it with warm soapy water. Avoid immersing the motor base in water. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Do I need to pre-freeze the bowl?
Many ice cream makers, like the Cuisinart models, require the bowl to be pre-frozen. Check the instructions for your model for specific freezing times.
What to look for
Churning Time
Churning time is important when selecting an ice cream maker. Machines vary in how long they take to churn ice cream. Most can churn from 20 to 30 minutes. If you want quick results, look for a model that advertises fast churning times of around 20 minutes. This feature is especially useful during parties or gatherings.
Capacity Considerations
Capacity is another important factor. Ice cream makers can range from 1 quart to over 4 quarts. Larger machines are great for families or gatherings. For those living alone or in small households, a smaller capacity might be more suitable. Aim for a capacity that fits your regular serving needs.
Material and Build Quality
The material and build quality of the ice cream maker impact its longevity. Stainless steel models tend to be more durable. Plastic models may be lighter, but they can wear out quicker. When buying, check for quality materials that ensure your machine lasts through many ice cream batches.
Special Features
Look for special features that enhance the ice cream-making experience. Some models come with double-insulated bowls that eliminate the need for ice. Other machines may have pre-set programs for different types of frozen treats. These features can add convenience and variety to your ice cream adventures.
User-Friendliness
User-friendliness is essential for a good ice cream maker experience. Some machines are simple to operate with just one button, while others may require a lot of steps. Make sure to choose a machine that matches your comfort level to ensure you enjoy making ice cream without frustration.
Shopping around? We have 24 more ice cream maker guides for other budgets and use cases.
Sources and standards
Background reading we checked while putting this guide together:
- NIH on botanical ingredients NCCIH (NIH)
- NIAMS skin health NIAMS (NIH)
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