Contents
- The Top 8
- Top 8 Ice Cream Makers Reviewed in Detail
- 1. Editor’s Choice
- 2. Best Splurge
- 3. Best Lightweight
- 4. Most Versatile
- 5. Best Design
- 6. Best Value
- 7. Best for Daily Use
- 8. Best for Small Spaces
- Ice Cream Makers Compared Side by Side
- How to Choose Ice Cream Makers
- How We Reviewed
- Frequently asked questions
- What to look for
The best ice cream maker with built in freezer is the Nostalgia Electric Ice Cream Maker. It has a 4-quart capacity, allowing you to make large batches quickly. For a great value, the Elite Gourmet EIM1750 offers a 1-quart size but sacrifices a bit of capacity. You get delicious homemade ice cream without the need for additional ice or salt.
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The Top 8
Top 8 Ice Cream Makers Reviewed in Detail
This article covers the best ice cream makers with built-in freezers. Each one makes delicious treats quickly and easily. You’ll find options for different sizes and features. Choose the right one to enjoy homemade ice cream anytime.
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 a standout choice with a 4-quart capacity. It allows you to create a large volume of ice cream quickly, making it perfect for gatherings. This model is user-friendly and has a vintage wooden style, appealing to those who enjoy a classic look in their kitchen. Compared to other options, this ice cream maker simplifies the process with its sturdy design that requires no ice or salt, making it a convenient choice for beginners. However, its size may not be ideal for those with limited storage space.
Pros
- 4-quart capacity for large batches
- No need for ice or salt
- User-friendly design
- Vintage wooden style adds charm
Cons
- Large size may require more storage space
- May take longer to clean due to size
Best for: Families or gatherings needing large batches. Not ideal for: Those with limited kitchen space.
This model is perfect for creating fun and delicious ice cream experiences at home.
2. Best Splurge
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 a premium option. It makes up to 1.5 quarts of ice cream in just 20 minutes. This model features a double-insulated freezer bowl, eliminating the need for ice. Compared to the Nostalgia model, it is more compact and easier to store. However, it requires you to pre-freeze the bowl before use, which can be a drawback for those wanting immediate ice cream.
Pros
- Makes ice cream in 20 minutes
- Double-insulated bowl for better freezing
- Compact design for easier storage
- User-friendly operation
Cons
- Requires pre-freezing of bowl
- Smaller capacity limits batch size
Best for: Those who want quick results. Not ideal for: Large families needing bigger batches.
A quick and efficient option for making ice cream at home.
3. Best Lightweight
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.
The Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine with a 2-quart capacity offers a good balance of size and functionality. Its fully automatic operation allows you to make ice cream in under 30 minutes. This model is ideal for those who want a slightly larger capacity compared to the 1.5-quart version. While it shares similar features, the 2-quart size means you have a little more flexibility for larger batches. A limitation for this model is that it still requires the bowl to be pre-frozen, which can be a hassle if you want to make ice cream on a whim.
Pros
- 2-quart capacity for better batch size
- Fully automatic, easy to use
- Brushed stainless steel finish
- Makes various frozen treats
Cons
- Bowl must be pre-frozen
- Heavier compared to smaller models
Best for: Users wanting more flexibility in batch sizes. Not ideal for: Those seeking immediate use without pre-freezing.
An efficient choice for making larger ice cream batches at home.
4. Most Versatile
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® 7-in-1 Ice Cream Maker stands out for its versatility. It offers seven one-touch programs to make ice cream, gelato, sorbet, and more. This variety allows you to customize your frozen treats easily. Compared to others, the Ninja® CREAMi® offers more options for different textures and flavors. However, the complexity of features might be overwhelming for beginners who prefer straightforward machines.
Pros
- 7-in-1 functionality for various frozen treats
- User-friendly one-touch programs
- Creamify technology for smooth texture
- Innovative design with a sleek look
Cons
- Complexity may confuse beginners
- Larger footprint requires more counter space
Best for: Experimenters who enjoy customizing treats. Not ideal for: Beginners seeking straightforward machines.
A versatile option for those wanting to explore different frozen creations.
5. Best Design
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 EIM1750 is a budget-friendly option for families. It can make various frozen treats in under 20 minutes. This model is compact and easy to use, perfect for smaller kitchens. Compared to higher-end models, it lacks some advanced features like double-insulated bowls. However, its simplicity and price make it a fantastic choice for those just starting out.
Pros
- Quick operation in under 20 minutes
- Compact design for easy storage
- User-friendly with no ice or salt needed
- Affordable for budget-conscious buyers
Cons
- Limited capacity at 1 quart
- Fewer advanced features compared to pricier models
Best for: Budget-conscious families or beginners. Not ideal for: Those wanting more advanced features.
A straightforward and affordable choice for homemade ice cream lovers.
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 option for those wanting small servings. Each mug makes half a pint of ice cream, perfect for quick treats. This model is user-friendly and allows you to have one mug ready while the other is in the freezer. Compared to traditional machines, it offers a fun, personal experience. However, the small capacity may disappoint those wanting larger batches.
Pros
- Half-pint capacity for quick personal servings
- Chills in 24 to 48 hours
- User-friendly with one-touch operation
- Fun design for individual treats
Cons
- Limited capacity restricts batch sizes
- Not suitable for larger groups
Best for: Individuals wanting single servings. Not ideal for: Families needing larger quantities.
A fun and convenient option for personal ice cream cravings.
7. Best for Daily Use
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 is another great choice for those who love classic styles. It makes up to 4 quarts of ice cream quickly, perfect for parties. This version has a fun blue design and easy operation. While it shares features with the original Nostalgia model, the color and style may appeal to different tastes. A downside is that its size requires more storage space in your kitchen.
Pros
- 4-quart capacity for large batches
- Classic design with a fun blue color
- No need for ice or salt
- Quick operation time
Cons
- Requires more storage space
- May take longer to clean due to size
Best for: Families or gatherings needing large batches. Not ideal for: Those with limited kitchen storage.
A stylish option for making large quantities of delicious ice cream at home.
8. Best for Small Spaces
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 Ice Cream Maker Machine is compact and easy to store. It’s great for those wanting a smaller option without sacrificing quality. This model can make ice cream in just 20 minutes, but it requires the bowl to be pre-frozen. Compared to larger models, it is more affordable and perfect for smaller households. However, the smaller capacity means you may need to make multiple batches for gatherings.
Pros
- Compact design for easy storage
- Makes ice cream in 20 minutes
- Good for small households
- User-friendly operation
Cons
- Requires bowl to be pre-frozen
- Limited capacity is not ideal for larger servings
Best for: Small families or couples. Not ideal for: Those needing to serve larger groups.
A practical choice for those with limited kitchen space and small serving needs.
Ice Cream Makers Compared Side by Side
The table below summarizes key features of each ice cream maker with built in freezer. You’ll find columns comparing capacity, special features, and ease of use. This will help you choose the right model for your ice cream-making 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 | Best Splurge | Cuisinart | $69.31 | Check |
| 3 | Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine | Best Lightweight | Cuisinart | $99.94 | Check |
| 4 | Ninja® CREAMi® 7-in-1 Ice Cream Maker | Most Versatile | SharkNinja | $169.99 | Check |
| 5 | Elite Gourmet EIM1750 Self-Churning Electric 1Qt. Ice… | Best Design | 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 for Daily Use | Nostalgia Products | $39.99 | Check |
| 8 | Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine | Best for Small Spaces | 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 selecting an ice cream maker, consider how much ice cream you want to make at once. If you often entertain, a larger model like the Nostalgia Electric with a 4-quart capacity is ideal. For smaller households, a 1 or 1.5-quart machine may suffice.
Freezer Bowl Type
Some machines have a built-in freezer, while others require pre-freezing the bowl. Machines like the Cuisinart models need prep, but are often more lightweight. Choose based on your convenience preference.
Ease of Use
Look for features that simplify the ice cream-making process. Some models have automatic settings or one-touch operations, making them user-friendly, especially for beginners.
Mixing Paddle Design
The design of the mixing paddle affects the texture of your ice cream. A well-designed paddle will create a smoother, creamier texture. Ensure it’s made of durable materials.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Check if the ice cream maker is easy to clean. Removable parts that are dishwasher safe can save you time and effort after making your delicious treats.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
Our data comes from a variety of trusted online retailers, product specification sheets, and customer reviews. We reviewed over 30 ice cream makers to create this list.
How we built this shortlist
We narrowed our selection to eight models based on user ratings, features, and overall popularity. Each product was assessed based on its specifications and capacity.
What we ruled out and why
We excluded any models that did not meet basic functionality or had consistently poor reviews from users. Reliability and ease of use are key factors.
What we did not do
We did not test these products ourselves. No lab measurements were taken, and no scores were assigned beyond what users provided in reviews.
How often this page is updated
This page will be updated regularly to include new models and updated user reviews. Expect updates at least twice a year to ensure you have the latest information.
Frequently asked questions
What is an ice cream maker with built in freezer?
An ice cream maker with built in freezer is a machine that churns ice cream while cooling it in its own freezing compartment. This eliminates the need for ice or salt.
How long does it take to make ice cream?
Most models take between 20 to 40 minutes to make ice cream. The time varies based on the machine and type of ice cream.
Can I make other frozen treats?
Yes, many ice cream makers can also make frozen yogurt, sorbet, and gelato. Each model may have specific features that cater to different recipes.
Do I need to pre-freeze the bowl?
Some machines require you to pre-freeze the bowl, while others do not. Check the specifications before purchasing.
How do I clean my ice cream maker?
Cleaning methods vary by model, but most have removable parts that can go in the dishwasher. Always refer to the user manual for specific instructions.
What to look for
Capacity
Capacity is a key factor when choosing an ice cream maker. It affects how much ice cream you can make at once and is usually measured in quarts. Larger models like the Nostalgia Electric can make 4 quarts, which is great for parties, while smaller options like the Dash My Mug are better for quick personal servings.
Freezing Mechanism
There are two main types of freezing mechanisms in ice cream makers. Some have a built-in freezer that doesn’t require ice or salt. Others use a freezer bowl that needs pre-freezing before use. Models with a built-in freezer are generally more convenient.
Cooling Features
Look for cooling features that enhance the texture of your ice cream. Double-insulated bowls retain cold temperatures better, resulting in smoother ice cream. This is a feature seen in models like Cuisinart.
User Interface
An easy-to-use interface can improve your ice cream-making experience. Some machines feature one-touch operations, while others may have multiple settings. Choose a model that matches your comfort level.
Recipe Flexibility
Consider how flexible the machine is regarding recipes. Some models come with recipe guides, while others allow you to experiment easily. The more versatile, the more fun you can have making innovative frozen treats.
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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