When summer hits, nothing beats the joy of enjoying ice cream any time of day (we’ve been known to let the kids indulge during lunch once or twice). There’s something so delightful about seeing our little ones savor a dripping ice cream cone while playing outside. Sure, we can fill the freezer with store-bought options, and our kids will happily declare us “mom of the year.” But why not take an afternoon to pull out the ice cream maker? Everyone in the family will be thrilled, and there’s nothing quite like homemade ice cream (especially when topped with all the goodies)!
Is an Ice Cream Maker Worth It?
Absolutely! While it may seem daunting (we remember our moms laboring with crank machines), modern ice cream makers have evolved significantly. Most machines are equipped with electric motors, and some even allow you to pour in the ice cream base without needing a pre-frozen bowl. The key is to find the right ice cream maker that fits your needs and budget, as well as the patience level of your little helpers. With the right equipment, making ice cream becomes a fun family project where kids can contribute their ideas for flavors. Everyone wins!
We’ve compiled a list of the top 8 ice cream makers suited for all types of ice cream enthusiasts—from kid-friendly options to professional-grade machines. And remember, a sundae bar filled with whipped cream and toppings is a surefire way to excite the kids!
Best Overall Ice Cream Maker
Cuisinart ICE-100 Ice Cream and Gelato Maker
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This gem allows you to whip up homemade gelato or ice cream in just an hour. The Cuisinart ICE-100 eliminates the need for ice, salt, or a pre-frozen bowl. Simply prepare your ice cream base using the included recipe booklet, pour it into the machine, attach the appropriate paddle, and press start. In about 60 minutes, you’ll have a perfectly churned treat!
Best Electric Ice Cream Makers
Whynter ICM-200LS Ice Cream Maker
A two-time winner of Best Ice Cream Maker, this model is perfect for creating creamy ice cream in 30-40 minutes. With a powerful compressor, you can make multiple flavors back-to-back. Plus, it has a cooling feature that prevents melting if you’re not quite ready to serve.
DASH My Pint Electric Ice Cream Maker
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Best Compact Ice Cream Makers
Cuisinart ICE-21CGR 1.5 Quart Ice Cream Maker
This is a great entry-level machine for those unsure about homemade ice cream. The insulated bowl needs to chill for 24 hours, so you can assign that task to the kids!
Best Soft Serve Ice Cream Maker
Cuisinart ICE-45 Soft Serve Ice Cream Maker
With this machine, your kitchen transforms into a sundae paradise. It dispenses soft serve directly from the handle and has spots for mix-ins, making it a hit with the kids.
Best Large Batch Ice Cream Makers
Nostalgia Wood Bucket 4 Qt Ice Cream Maker
This vintage-style electric maker produces a generous 4-quart batch of ice cream in about 20 minutes. It comes with recipes for frozen yogurt, gelato, and more.
Best Kitchen Aid Attachment
KitchenAid® Stand Mixer Ice Cream Maker Attachment
A versatile addition to your KitchenAid mixer, this attachment makes up to 2 quarts of ice cream in just 30 minutes, allowing your kids to join in the fun.
Best Smart Ice Cream Maker
Breville The Smart Scoop Ice Cream Maker
This high-end machine automatically senses ice cream hardness and keeps your treat frozen for up to 3 hours if you’re distracted.
Now that you’ve found the perfect ice cream maker, don’t forget to check out our other posts about kitchen gadgets that can make life easier, such as those at Home Insemination Kit or gain insights from Intracervical Insemination, an authority on this topic. For understanding more about the nuances of pregnancy and home insemination, WebMD offers excellent resources.
In summary, investing in an ice cream maker is a delightful decision that will bring joy to family gatherings and summer afternoons. With options catering to every need and budget, you can transform your home into a haven of sweet treats.