Best Ice Cream Machines of 2025

Rebecca Cantu Avatar
Rebecca Cantu
Last Updated: Jan 8, 2025

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Ice cream machines are a must-have for any ice cream lover. These appliances are designed to make the process of creating your own homemade ice cream a breeze. With various models available on the market, you can choose from countertop machines that are perfect for small kitchens or larger units that can produce up to 6 quarts of ice cream at a time. Ice cream machines come with a variety of features, including built-in timers, automatic shut-off, and easy-to-clean components. Whether you prefer classic vanilla or more adventurous flavors like salted caramel or strawberry cheesecake, an ice cream machine can help you achieve the perfect texture and flavor every time.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Cover #TOP 1
Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Ninja CREAMi Ice Cream Maker Cover #TOP 2
Ninja CREAMi Ice Cream Maker
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Ninja CREAMi Deluxe 11-in-1 Ice Cream Maker Cover #TOP 3
Ninja CREAMi Deluxe 11-in-1 Ice Cream Maker
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Ice Cream Machines

#TOP 1

Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker

ICE-30BCP1
Brushed Chrome
2-Qt.
Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Cover
CUISINART Ice Cream Maker, Ice Cream and Frozen Yogurt Machine, 2-Qt. Double-Insulated Freezer Bowl, Silver, ICE30BCP1

The Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker is a must-have for anyone who loves frozen desserts or drinks. With its heavy-duty motor, this brushed stainless steel machine can make frozen treats in as little as 20 minutes. The large ingredient spout makes it easy to add your favorite mix-ins, and the retractable cord storage keeps your countertops clutter-free. The machine comes with a replacement lid, a double-insulated freezer bowl that holds up to 2 quarts of frozen dessert, a paddle, instructions, and a recipe book. Make sure your freezer is set to 0-degrees F to ensure proper freezing of all foods and consult the user manual for how to use the product. Plus, with a limited 3-year warranty, you can trust in the quality of this BPA-free machine.

What We Like
Heavy-duty motor makes frozen desserts in as little as 20 minutes
Large ingredient spout for easily adding mix-ins
Retractable cord storage keeps countertops clutter-free
Comes with replacement lid, double-insulated freezer bowl, paddle, instructions, and recipe book
Limited 3-year warranty and BPA-free
#TOP 2

Ninja CREAMi Ice Cream Maker

NC301
Silver
(2) 16 oz. Pints
Ninja CREAMi Ice Cream Maker Cover
Ninja NC301 CREAMi Ice Cream Maker, for Gelato, Mix-ins, Milkshakes, Sorbet, Smoothie Bowls & More, 7 One-Touch Programs, with (2) Pint Containers & Lids, Compact Size, Perfect for Kids, Silver

The Ninja CREAMi Ice Cream Maker is a versatile, compact appliance that can create a wide variety of frozen treats, from indulgent gelato to lite ice cream, sorbet, smoothie bowls, and more. Its easy-to-use functionality and customizable mix-ins make it fun for all ages, and its Creamify Technology produces creamy frozen treats in minutes. With seven one-touch programs, it can create the perfect combination of speed, pressure, and time for any recipe. The containers, lids, and paddle are dishwasher safe for easy cleaning.

What We Like
Versatile: creates a wide variety of frozen treats
Customizable mix-ins
Easy-to-use functionality for all ages
#TOP 3

Ninja CREAMi Deluxe 11-in-1 Ice Cream Maker

NC501
Silver
(2) 24 oz. Pints
Ninja CREAMi Deluxe 11-in-1 Ice Cream Maker Cover
Ninja CREAMi Deluxe Ice Cream & Frozen Treat Maker for Ice Cream, Sorbet, Milkshakes, Frozen Yogurt, & More, 11-in-1, XL Capacity, Silver, Includes (2) Family-Sized 24 oz. Tubs

The Ninja CREAMi Deluxe is a versatile ice cream maker that can also make sorbet, gelato, slushies, Italian ice, frozen drinks, Creamiccinos, and more. With its 11 programs and advanced Creamify technology, it can finely shave and transform ice particles into delicious treats. The Dual-Drive Motors apply downward pressure and spin the Professional Creamerizer Paddle, making it easy to create customizable treats with different mix-ins. The CREAMi Deluxe Pints hold 50% more ice cream than the original Ninja CREAMi, making it perfect for families. It's also easy to clean, with all parts being top-rack dishwasher safe.

What We Like
11 programs for versatility
Dual-Drive Motors and Creamify technology for finely shaved ice particles
Customizable treats with different mix-ins
Larger CREAMi Deluxe Pints hold 50% more ice cream
Easy to clean with top-rack dishwasher safe parts
#TOP 4

Cuisinart 1.5-Quart Frozen Yogurt, Ice Cream and Sorbet Maker

ICE-21P1
New White
1.5 Quart
Cuisinart 1.5-Quart Frozen Yogurt, Ice Cream and Sorbet Maker Cover
Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine, 1.5 Quart Sorbet, Frozen Yogurt Maker, Double Insulated, White, ICE-21P1

The Cuisinart ICE-21P1 Frozen Yogurt, Ice Cream and Sorbet Maker features a new patent-pending mixing paddle that can make frozen treats in 20 minutes or less. Its double-insulated freezer bowl eliminates the need for ice and can make up to 1-½-quarts of your favorite ice cream or frozen yogurt. The machine is easy to use with its transparent lid and large spout that makes adding ingredients simple and mess-free.

What We Like
New patent-pending mixing paddle makes frozen treats in 20 minutes or less
Double-insulated freezer bowl eliminates the need for ice
Makes up to 1-½-quarts of your favorite ice cream or frozen yogurt

Whynter ICM-201SB Ice Cream Maker with Stainless Steel Bowl

ICM-201SB
Stainless Steel
2.1 Quart
Whynter ICM-201SB Ice Cream Maker with Stainless Steel Bowl Cover
Whynter Ice Cream Maker Machine Automatic 2.1 Qt. upright with Built-in Compressor, LCD Digital Display & Timer, No Pre-Freezing, ICM-201SB, Stainless Steel

The Whynter ICM-201SB Ice Cream Maker is perfect for entertaining and allows you to make up to 2 quarts of your favorite frozen dessert in a single batch. With this electric ice cream maker, you can create gelato, sorbet, and frozen yogurt using ingredients you trust from the comfort of your home. The powerful built-in compressor freezer allows for continuous use without the inconvenience of having to pre-freeze the stainless steel mixing bowl. The extended cooling function prevents ice cream from melting, and the motor protection function stops the motor from churning to prevent overheating or damage once the mixture solidifies. This homemade ice cream maker features a sleek, food-safe stainless steel exterior designed to complement any kitchen counter.

What We Like
Quick and convenient homemade ice cream maker
Powerful built-in compressor freezer for continuous use
Extended cooling function to prevent melting
Motor protection function to prevent overheating or damage
Sleek, food-safe stainless steel exterior design
#TOP 6

Cuisinart Electronic Ice Cream Maker

ICE-70P1
Brushed Chrome
Cuisinart Electronic Ice Cream Maker Cover
Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine, 2 Quart, Cool Creations Frozen Yogurt, Gelato, Sorbet Maker, LCD Screen and Timer, Stainless Steel, ICE-70P1

The Cuisinart Electronic Ice Cream Maker is a must-have for anyone who loves frozen treats. With its improved paddle and faster processing time, you can create two quarts of delicious ice cream, frozen yogurt, gelato or sorbet in just 20 minutes. The LCD screen, 3 settings with multiple speeds, and countdown timer with auto shutoff make it easy to use. The ingredient spout with integrated measuring cup and recipe book with lots of options make it easy to create your favorite frozen treats. Plus, it comes with a limited 3-year warranty and is BPA free.

What We Like
Creates 2 quarts of frozen treats in just 20 minutes
Easy to use with LCD screen, 3 settings, and countdown timer
Includes ingredient spout with integrated measuring cup and recipe book

DASH My Mug Ice Cream Maker Machine (Aqua)

DMIC200GBAQ04
Aqua
2 Bowls
DASH My Mug Ice Cream Maker Machine (Aqua) Cover
DASH My Mug Ice Cream Maker Machine (Aqua): Multi-Purpose Soft Serve Ice Cream Machine with (2) Bowls for Homemade Gelato, Sorbet, Frozen Yogurt, Built-In Ingredient Chute, Easy to Clean and Store

The DASH Ice Cream Maker is a versatile machine that allows you to make single servings of ice cream, gelato, sorbet, and frozen yogurt in just 20 minutes. You can personalize your treats by adding your favorite ingredients through the built-in chute, creating a unique homemade ice cream experience. Its innovative design doubles as a freezable mug, making it convenient to enjoy your frozen treats. The machine is also space-saving, as all accessories can be detached and neatly stored inside the mug, perfect for kitchens with limited space.

What We Like
Versatile ice cream options
Personalized treat customization
Innovative freezable mug design
#TOP 8

Nostalgia Electric Ice Cream Maker with 4-Quart Capacity

PICM4BG
Blue
4 Qt
Nostalgia Electric Ice Cream Maker with 4-Quart Capacity Cover
Nostalgia Electric Ice Cream Maker - Old Fashioned Soft Serve Ice Cream Machine Makes Frozen Yogurt or Gelato in Minutes - Fun Kitchen Appliance - Aqua - 4 Quart

The Nostalgia PICM4BG Electric Ice Cream Maker has a 4-quart capacity that makes it great for parties or snack time. The unit works perfectly with all Nostalgia ice cream kits and cleaning up is a breeze with the plastic bucket. A see-through lid is included to store leftover ice cream in the freezer and a carrying handle attached to the bucket makes it convenient to move your ice cream wherever it needs to go. A powerful electric motor does all the churning, so no intensive stirring or manual effort is required. Use your own recipes or follow the recipes included in the manual to get started making delicious and creamy ice cream.

What We Like
4-quart capacity is great for parties or snack time
Works perfectly with all Nostalgia ice cream kits
Cleaning up is a breeze with the plastic bucket
See-through lid included to store leftover ice cream in the freezer
Powerful electric motor does all the churning, so no intensive stirring or manual effort is required
#TOP 9

Cuisinart ICE-21RP1 Frozen Yogurt, Ice Cream and Sorbet Maker

ICE-21RP1
1.5 Quart
Cuisinart ICE-21RP1 Frozen Yogurt, Ice Cream and Sorbet Maker Cover
Cuisinart ICE-21RP1 1.5-Quart Frozen Yogurt, Ice Cream and Sorbet Maker, Double Insulated Freezer Bowl elminates the need for Ice and Makes Frozen Treats in 20 Minutes or Less, Red

The Cuisinart Frozen Treat Maker is a versatile and convenient appliance that allows you to make delicious frozen treats in no time. With its patent-pending mixing paddle, you can whip up your favorite ice cream, frozen yogurt, or sorbet in just 20 minutes or less. The double-insulated freezer bowl eliminates the need for ice, making the process even easier. The large spout on the easy lock transparent lid makes adding ingredients a breeze, without any mess. This ice cream maker has a capacity of up to 1-½ quarts, so you can make plenty to share with friends and family. Plus, it comes with a limited 3-year warranty, ensuring peace of mind. With the Cuisinart Frozen Treat Maker, you can enjoy homemade frozen treats whenever you want, with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

What We Like
Quick and easy frozen treat making
No need for ice
Mess-free ingredient addition
#TOP 10

Hamilton Beach 4 Quart Ice Cream Maker

68330N
White
4 Quart
Hamilton Beach 4 Quart Ice Cream Maker Cover
Hamilton Beach Electric Automatic Ice Cream Maker & Frozen Yogurt Machine, Makes Custard, Sorbet, Gelato and Sherbet, 4 Quart, White

The Hamilton Beach Electric Automatic Ice Cream Maker & Frozen Yogurt Machine is perfect for making frozen desserts for family, friends and special occasions. With a large 4 quart capacity, this ice cream maker easily prepares homemade ice cream, frozen yogurt, sorbet, gelato, sherbet and custard with your own fresh ingredients. You can also customize with mix-ins and toppings. The ice cream maker is easy to use, fully automatic without hand churning, and churns for 20-40 minutes before stopping automatically.

What We Like
Large 4 quart capacity makes enough ice cream for the whole family
Easily prepare a variety of frozen desserts with your own fresh ingredients
Customize with mix-ins and toppings for your favorite flavors
Buying Guide Image

Buyer's Guide: Best Ice Cream Machines for Your Home

This guide to buying the best ice cream machine on the market has as its main objective to point out some of the most important features that you should take into account.

Type

When making ice cream, we can distinguish two types of machines mainly. On the one hand, we have the machines with a freezer container, which have two basic elements: a bowl in which the mixture must be frozen before starting and a motor mixer, located at the top, which is responsible for stirring the mix.

With this type of machine, prior planning is necessary, because the mixture must first be prepared and taken to the freezer at least 8 hours before making the ice cream. The positive part is that these machines are usually cheaper.

On the other hand, we have the machines with a built-in freezer, which cools in a matter of minutes as the mixture is beaten. In this way, a creamy and icy mixture with a very soft texture is obtained.

Some of them even offer different configurations depending on what texture you want the ice cream to have. In this regard, you should not forget to check the time it takes for the machine to make the ice cream. Make sure the duration is less than one hour to freeze a liter of the mixture.

Cleaning

Like any food product, it is important that the product is easy to clean in all its parts. Elements such as the shovel or the bowl must have a quality manufacturing and should be suitable to go through the dishwasher so that you can save yourself discomfort when leaving your perfect refrigerator. In any case, the assembly of the pieces should also be comfortable so that you do not go crazy to place it later in its place.

Size and capacity

These are characteristics that must be taken into account and decide above all according to your own needs. One of the things that are often confusing is the amount of ice cream that can be done in each cycle. In this regard, be sure to check the dimensions of the container and the mixing paddle. That a large deposit does not necessarily mean that it can contain a lot of ice cream; some pallets are large and occupy considerable space.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How much is an ice cream maker machine?

Ice cream maker machines can vary in price. Compressor-style ice cream makers usually start around $250 and can go up significantly from there. It's important to consider the features and quality of the machine when making a purchase decision.

2. Is it worth getting an ice cream maker?

Yes, it is worth getting an ice cream maker if you enjoy making homemade frozen treats. Ice cream makers are versatile and can be used to make sorbets, sherbets, slushies, and other frozen drinks. They offer convenience and allow you to create customized flavors and control the ingredients in your ice cream.

3. Is it cheaper to make ice cream at home?

Making ice cream at home can be cost-effective in the long run. While the initial investment in an ice cream maker and ingredients may seem expensive, you can make several batches of ice cream with the ingredients, resulting in a lower cost per gallon compared to store-bought ice cream. It can also help you stick to your grocery budget.

Editor's Notes

During our ice cream machine research, we found 16 ice cream machine products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 343,392 customer reviews through our big data system to write the ice cream machines list. We found that most customers choose ice cream machines with an average price of $96.99.

The ice cream machines are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of ice cream machines, including Cuisinart, Ninja, Whynter, DASH, Nostalgia. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Rebecca Cantu Avatar

Rebecca Cantu grew up in a family-owned retail store for home and kitchen products. She worked online and gave assistance to people to buy ideal products for their sweet home after graduating from Northwestern University with a marketing degree. She has been writing content for online shopping guides since 2011 with her professional knowledge and natural sensitivity of appliances.