Best Home Ice Cream Maker Review
The only thing that can beat a hot summer day is a scoop of ice cream or two.
Going out every day to get ice cream is tiring and hence more and people are getting homemade ice cream makers.
Some people are even allergic to store-bought processed flavors, and homemade ice cream makes perfect sense.
Homemade ice not only tastes better but also allows you to make any flavor you want and with these machines, you aren’t just limited to ice creams.
You can also get sorbet made out of fruits or frozen yogurt.
While there are plenty of machines, you need a machine that freezes faster, which then prevents the ice cream mix from forming crunchy crystals and releases any excess air, giving you the perfect ice cream.
There are different types of these machines, and they are hand-crank, compressor-style and frozen bowl.
We’ve listed down 10 best homemade ice cream makers from top sellers and brands we trust.
Here are the 10 best homemade ice cream makers-
Table Of Content
Top 10 Best Home Ice Cream Maker
1. Whynter ICM-15LS Automatic Ice Cream Maker
When it comes to capacity, it is smaller by 2 cups compared to other models, but it makes up for it by the simplistic design.
It is effortless and has a timer and a start/stop button.
The bowl is a bit narrower, but it made some of the smoothest ice creams in our tests.
This is a stainless-steel compressor-style Ice Cream Maker and comes with a built-in compressor which means you don’t need to pre-cool the machine or anything else.
Compressor styled machines are the most comfortable ice makers.
All you need to do is to turn on and put the ice cream mixture in and after about 30 mins; it’s ready.
This ensures there is no lump of either salt or ice.
There’s also a removable bowl that you also pre-cool if you would like that.
While you get all the benefits of a compressor styled ice cream makes, it can be quite heavy and bulky.
But if your weight is not a major concern as you won’t be moving it much anyway.
With that said, it’s relatively inexpensive than some of the other models, and hence you will save quite a bit.
Pros
– It features a minimalistic and simple design language
– It features a timer and a start/stop button
– It’s compressor-style ice cream maker
– It only takes an average of 30 minutes to get your ice cream ready to eat
– Quite inexpensive
Cons
– Weight and size may not be for everybody
Whynter ICM-15LS Automatic Ice Cream Maker Features
- Award Winning: Best self-freezing ice cream maker by WireCutter and Real Simple; Self-contained frozen dessert maker that does not require pre-freezing; makes ice cream, frozen yogurt, sorbet.
- Stainless steel housing; Reliable built-in audible timer
- 1.6 quart (1.5 liter); -0.4ºF to -31ºF Cooling temperature
- BPA-free aluminum removable mixing bowl and churn blade for easy storage and effortless cleaning
- LCD timer control; Motor Protection Function that shuts off to prevent damage if the mixture freezes solid
2. Cuisinart ICE21R Automatic
This model from Cuisinart takes only about 20 minutes, making it one of the fastest ice cream makers that achieves this without creating a lump of either salt or ice.
Cuisinart is one of the most trusted and popular brands in kitchenware.
The ICE21R is one such popular product of this company as it has been one of their top sellers.
This model may not have all the fancy features that other expensive models do, but it offers an excellent value proposition.
This machine was engineered to be hassle-free and to ease your life with its delicious ice creams.
The ICE21R has a capacity of 1 and a half quartz which is enough for all recipes.
The freezer features a double insulated coating along with a mixing paddle, and that’s why it only takes about 20 minutes to have your favourite ice cream up and ready to taste.
The lid is made out of transparent material and has an easy locking mechanism which makes it easy to add ingredients.
Being a fully automatic ice cream maker, all you need to do is press the button, and it will be ready in just 20 minutes.
Pros
– Make all your frozen yogurt, ice cream and drinks in just about 20 minutes
– Easy lock mechanism makes adding ingredients easy and hassle-free
– BPA free
– Fully automatic
– Double insulated freezer
Cons
– 1 and a half quartz may not be large enough for everybody
Cuisinart ICE21R Automatic Features
- New mixing paddle makes frozen desserts and drinks in 20 minutes or less. Dimensions (LWH) : 9.50 x 9.00 x 11.25 inches
- Large capacity makes up to 1-1/2-quarts. BPA Free
- Double insulated freezer bowl eliminates the need for ice
- Easy lock transparent lid with large spout makes adding ingredients simple and mess free
- Fully automatic with large ingredient spout for adding ingredients. Housing Material - Thermoplastic
3. Lello 4080 Musso Lussino
The model is easily one of the best ice cream makers considering its size.
Musso Lussino is simply one of the best out there and costs a hefty sum, but it’s worth it for those who prefer to have the best.
This machine was able to get batches of ice cream ready in just about 30 minutes, and that describes it all.
This model is also found to make the smoothest ice cream than any other model.
Various timer controls allow different configurations for favorite frozen delight.
Almost every part including the bowl and paddle is made out of stainless steel, and that makes it not only easy for cleaning and maintenance but also looks sophisticated at the same time.
It is also loaded with various safety features such as if you get busy and forget to turn off the machine after minutes, it will automatically turn itself off.
It also features an easy lid locking mechanism which makes adding in mixtures and ingredients wholly painless and the lid is also made out of transparent material for an even more comfortable process.
There are various sensors that can detect any abnormalities and set the machine off if needed.
This machine consumes only about 100W of power and weighs just about 38 pounds.
All these innovative technical features are perfect for those who have a busy lifestyle, and with this model, you don’t have to worry about things going out of order.
These technologies help them make their life more comfortable and simpler.
Pros
– Stainless Steel body and other materials
– Extra smooth texture
– Safety features
– The fully automatic process takes only 30 minutes
Cons
– Quite a bit costly
Lello 4080 Musso Lussino Features
- 1-1/2-quart capacity bowl freezes 3 quarts of ice cream or sorbet per hour
- Fully automatic: pour ingredients into bowl, press two buttons
- Timer controls operation for different frozen confections
- Housing, bowl, paddle made of stainless steel for easy cleaning
- 12 inches wide, 11 inches high, 18 inches deep; weighs 38 pounds
4. Breville BCI600XL Smart Scoop Ice Cream Maker
This Smart Scoop Ice Cream Maker is very technologically advanced and features a backlit LED display all the information you would need.
You can set 12 different freeze settings depending on whether you are preparing sorbet, gelato, ice cream, or simply frozen yogurt and has a bowl capacity of 1.5 quarts.
Various timer controls allow different configurations for favorite frozen delight.
The self-refrigerating compressor consumes only 110 volts or 165W of power which is optimal for a fully automatic ice cream maker.
In case you turn it off but couldn’t eat it the right way, then its smart sensor will allow the machine to keep it in the same freezing temperature for about 3 hours.
So, don’t worry if you couldn’t get it right away as it won’t be melted mess.
It features a top-mounted motor which is a good engineering feat and a boon for those who make ice cream or any other desserts regularly.
Considering the price, it quite useful.
Pros
– LED display
– 12 different freezer settings
– Top-mounted motor
– BPA free
Cons
– Price is a bit high
Breville BCI600XL Smart Scoop Ice Cream Maker Features
- Note: Kindly review the videos under the image section and user manual under product details for set up and user guidance
- 12 hardness settings; sorbet, frozen yogurt, gelato, and ice cream,Capacity 1.5 quart (1 Liter) bowl capacity
- Self refrigerating compressor: Voltage: 110 to 120 Volts Power: 165 watts
- Fully automatic or manual functionality: Keep cool setting for up to 3 hours
- Pre cool setting to optimal operating temperature
5. Nostalgia 4-Quart Electric Ice Cream Maker
Automatic ice cream makers are excellent but it’s not for everybody.
Some people will think twice before spending $300 on an ice cream maker.
This is for those who are looking for an affordable model that can still make an ice cream that is just as great as the automatic ones.
The Nostalgia 4-Quart Electric Ice Cream Maker is retrofitted with an electric motor instead of going for a hand-cranked model.
All you need to do is fill the bucket with ice and salt and then turn on the motor.
Within a couple of minutes, it will be ready.
Our team through various tests have found the ice cream to be a bit on the icier side as compared to those expensive compressor-style ice cream makers, and that’s more than good enough for the price you are paying.
Proper distribution of ice and salt may remedy this, but even if it is a bit on the icier side, it makes up for it in the sheer volume of total ice cream production.
It can make a whopping 1-gallon ice cream at a time which will be more than enough for your whole family.
The bucket itself is made out of plastic, making it very easy for cleaning and the machine comes included with recipes in the manual.
Pros
– Powerful electric motor
– Has a capacity of 4 quart
– Budget-friendly price
– 4-quart capacity
– Recipes included in the manual
Cons
– Filling the bucket with and salt may not be preferred by everybody
Nostalgia 4-Quart Electric Ice Cream Maker Features
- 4-Quart Capacity: Makes up to 4-quarts of delicious ice cream, frozen yogurt or gelato
- Nostalgia Ice Cream Mixes: Unit works perfectly with all Nostalgia ice cream mixes - try Vanilla Crème (ICP825VAN), Chocolate (ICP825CHOC), Strawberry (ICP825STRAW), and No Sugar Added Vanilla (ICP825VANSF)
- Easy-To-Clean: Plastic bucket makes it easy to cleanup and wipe away messes
- See-Thru Lids: Cover the ice cream canister with included see-thru lid to easily view ice cream flavor and for freezer storage
- Powerful Electric Motor: Electric motor does all the churning, which means no manual effort!
6. Cuisinart CE-45 Soft-Serve Ice Cream Maker
While others were fine, this one excels at it while having more nifty features.
Cuisinart CE-45 Soft-Serve Ice Cream Maker features a fully automatic design and about 10 to 12 servings at a time.
But unlike other Cuisinart models, you will have to put the inner bowl in the freezer before you pour in the ice cream mixture.
The nifty that this model is its fancy cone holder like it is found in some other expensive models and also features 3 more dispensers where you can drop your favorite toppings and mix-ins.
You can different toppings and mix in each of the three dispensers, and the cone holder can fit both pointed cones as well as the ones that have a flat-bottom.
It also features an easy lid locking mechanism which makes adding in mixtures and ingredients completely painless and the lid is also made out of transparent material for an even easier process.
All you need to do is to turn on and put the ice cream mixture in and after about 30 mins; it’s ready as it is that easy to get your favorite ice cream with this machine.
Once you’re done with all your desserts and beverages, you can take out the drip tray as it is removable for easier cleaning.
It only weighs about 15 pounds so it’s quite lightweight compared to the automatics compressor-style ones.
Pros
– Automatic design
– 3 dispensers for adding toppings and mix-ins
– Cone holder
– Weighs only 15 pounds
– Removable drip tray
Cons
– The need to pre-freeze the bowl may not be preferred by everybody
Cuisinart CE-45 Soft-Serve Ice Cream Maker Features
- Easy-lock Lid with Window – Lid is designed to remove and lock easily. An ingredient window allows you to pour ingredients directly through the top and watch the freezing process, Base – Contains heavy-duty motor strong enough to make and dispense ice cream. BPA Free
- Mixing Arm (not shown) – Mixes and aerates ingredients in freezer bowl to create smooth soft ice cream, Dispensing Bracket with Handle – Dispenses the soft ice cream when handle is pulled down. Removable for easy cleaning, Rubber Feet – Nonslip feet keep base stationary during use
- 1 1⁄2-Quart Freezer Bowl (not shown) – Contains cooling liquid within a double-insulated wall to create fast and even freezing. Double wall keeps the bowl cool and at an even temperature, Condiment Chute – Mix-ins are dispensed from the chute into your ice cream cone or bowl while you dispense ice cream. Removable for easy cleaning
- Three Condiment Containers – Dispense the mix-ins of your choice. The front condiment container with a curved edge dispenses small mix-ins such as sprinkles. Two rectangular condiment containers dispense larger mix-ins such as mini M&M s or mini chocolate morsels, Condiment Dispensing Levers –Pull out one of three levers to add the mix-ins of your choice into your soft ice cream
- ON/OFF Power Dial, Cone Holder – Conveniently holds a stack of extra ice cream cones. Can hold both flat and pointed-bottom cones, Removable Drip Tray – Can be removed for easy cleaning. Dot in center of tray indicates where to place the ice cream cone. Mix-in Gauge – Check the size of mix-ins by dropping them through. Mix-ins that do not fit through will clog the ice cream maker.120 Volts
7. Whynter ICM-201SB
The best thing about the Whynter ICM-201SB is the consistency of the texture.
It produces a smooth and creamy texture that is mostly found on high-end models costing almost twice the price of this Whynter model.
Unlike the previous Whynter model, this one features a 2.1-quarts bowl which would leave you with plenty of room to add toppings or mix-ins.
The bowl is quite taller than other models and very easy to clean.
Even though it has a larger capacity bowl, the overall footprint of the entire machine is smaller than the ICM-15LS model and hence takes less space on the counter.
It has two different modes, one where it will only get the ice cream ready and other where even after the ice cream is ready; it will keep it cool as long as you don’t take it out.
This is perfect for those who have a busy lifestyle, and with this model, you don’t have to worry about things going out of order.
It is a bit costly at $340, but the way it provides a consistency and creamier result cannot be found in any other ice cream maker at this price.
Also being a fully automatic model, you don’t need to pre-freeze the bowl or anything and to put a cherry on top, it features an audible timer.
Pros
– 2.1 quarts bowl
– The smaller overall footprint of the machine
– Different modes of automatic process
– Consistency and smooth texture of ice cream is far better than anything at this range
– Made out of stainless steel
Cons
– Can be a bit expensive
Whynter ICM-201SB Features
- Self-contained frozen dessert maker that does not require pre-freezing; makes ice cream, frozen yogurt, sorbet
- Stainless steel housing; Reliable built-in audible timer
- 2.1 quart (2 liter) capacity; -0.4ºF to -31ºF Cooling temperature
- BPA-free stainless steel removable mixing bowl and churn blade for easy storage and effortless cleaning
- LCD timer control; Motor Protection Function that shuts off to prevent damage if the mixture freezes solid
8. Cuisinart ICE-21 1.5 Quart Ice Cream Maker
This is another model from Cuisinart, that also features an excellent value for money product for the price you will pay.
Cuisinart ICE-21 1.5 Quart can be used anyway whether you prefer to churner once a week or daily. In fact, this model is one of the most preferred and recommended models of all time.
The electric motor is very powerful and features a unique mixing paddle and double-insulated freezer bowl.
It can make 1.5 quarts of ice cream in only about 20 minutes. It is fully automatic and has a large ingredients tube if you wish to add toppings or mix-ins.
It is made out of thermoplastic materials, and it is completely BPA free.
It also features an easy lid locking mechanism which makes adding in mixtures and ingredients completely painless and the lid is also made out of transparent material for an even easier process.
The mixing paddle is another uniquely designed, so it makes the whole process very seamless.
With its one switch automatic process, making ice cream, frozen yogurt, sorbet or even frozen drinks has never been so easy.
Pros
– Takes about 20 minutes to get 1.5 quarts of ice cream or sorbet or anything else
– Double insulated freezer bowl
– Contains a strong motor that can easily get your favorite sorbet, ice cream or pretty much any other beverage you would like
– It is retrofitted with rubber feet, and that keeps it steady and secure in one place while the motor is running
– Used cord can be put back into the base area for easier storage
Cons
– Smaller capacity of 1.5 quarts would mean you need to make multiple mixing session if you are preparing for many people
Cuisinart ICE-21 1.5 Quart Ice Cream Maker Features
- New mixing paddle makes frozen desserts and drinks in 20 minutes or less. Dimensions (LWH) : 9.50 x 9.00 x 11.25 inches
- Large capacity makes up to 1-1/2-quarts. BPA Free
- Double insulated freezer bowl eliminates the need for ice
- Easy lock transparent lid with large spout makes adding ingredients simple and mess free
- Fully automatic with large ingredient spout for adding ingredients. Housing Material - Thermoplastic
9. Dash My Pint Ice Cream Maker
Don’t let it’s cute and small size fool you.
While it is smaller, it makes up for it at the end result.
The texture and consistency of the end result is often very smooth creamy and that makes it one of the best and most compact ice cream makers.
The freezer can take about 16 cups of fresh mixture and then with the push of button, your favourite ice cream will be ready in about 30 minutes.
Just in case if you need help while you mix, they also provide a plastic spoon with it.
The compact footprint of the Dash My Pint Ice Cream Maker allows you to keep it in any kitchen cabinet.
It is perfect for someone who has settled in a new apartment or is thinking about moving as it is very light weight and weighs just 1lb.
It has a 1-year warranty and the following items will be included with every purchase- cooling bowl, mixing spoon, recipe book, and other recipe database that you can find online whether it is sorbet, frozen yogurt, ice cream or anything.
Pros
– It can churn excellent quality of ice cream
– It can produce 16 cups of ice cream in 30 minutes
– It is very compact and lightweight
– Comes included with freezer bowl, mixing spoon, and recipe book
Cons
– Not for everyone as its freezing bowl is quite smaller compared to other models
Dash My Pint Ice Cream Maker Features
- HEALTHIER: Dash ice cream maker lets you make healthier, homemade ice cream right from your kitchen You control the ingredients (organic, sugar free, fresh fruit, all-natural), making it better for you and your family
- QUICK, EASY + CUSTOMIZABLE: Turns on and ready to go with just the push of a button 16 cups of fresh ice cream, gelato, sorbet, or frozen yogurt in less than 30 minutes Add chocolate, caramel, sprinkles, or your favorite condiments to customize your dessert
- COMPACT + LIGHTWEIGHT: Weighing less than 1 lb, this is a MUST-HAVE for that first apartment, smaller kitchen, college dorm life, or camper/RV traveling Disassembles easily for quick clean up and storage
- PERFECT GIFT: The perfect wedding gift, new home gift, or gift for kids Its small size takes up little counter space, and its sleek design and trendy color options will match any kitchen décor (add to your registry now!)
- INCLUDES: Backed by a 1-year manufacturer warranty, the 12-watt Dash Ice Cream Maker, includes cooling bowl, mixing spoon, recipe book, and recipe database access All non-electric parts are easily wiped clean
10. Nostalgia Electric Bucket 6-Quarts Ice Cream Maker
This is another excellent budget offering that has a trusted record of high customer satisfaction.
Nostalgia Electric Bucket has a commercial-grade electric motor of about 12000rpm which is good enough to churn out your favorite ice cream in just 20-30 minutes.
It has a capacity of about 6 quarts which is more than enough for your whole family.
It features an easy to clean bucket and a transparent lid so that you can easily view the process of making ice cream.
There are various notches around the motor and it is also retro fitted with rubber feet keeping the whole machine steady and secure in one place while the motor is running.
It is made with real wood slats which gives it a very old school look and the canister is made out of aluminum.
Proper distribution of ice and will prevent the mixture from getting uneven frozen texture inside.
It can make a whopping 1.5-gallon ice cream at a time.
It is an excellent value for money product for the price you will pay.
This model can be used anyway whether you prefer to churner once a week or daily.
In fact, this model is one of the fanciest looking products of all categories.
Pros
– Powerful 12000 rpm motor
– Takes only about 20-30minutes
– Very cool and old school wooden design
– Costs only a third of other more expensive compressor style ice creammaker
Cons
– This doesn’t feature a compressor and hence it must be filled with ice and salt
Nostalgia Electric Bucket 6-Quarts Ice Cream Maker Features
- 6-QUART CAPACITY: Makes up to 6-quarts of delicious ice cream, frozen yogurt or gelato
- NOSTALGIA ICE CREAM KITS: Unit works perfectly with all Nostalgia ice cream mixes - try Vanilla Crème (ICP825VAN), Chocolate (ICP825CHOC), Strawberry (ICP825STRAW), and No Sugar Added Vanilla (ICP825VANSF)
- EASY-TO-CLEAN: Bucket makes it easy to cleanup and wipe away messes
- SEE-THROUGH LIDS: Cover the ice cream canister with included see-thru lid to easily view ice cream flavor and for freezer storage
- POWERFUL ELECTRIC MOTOR: Electric motor does all the churning, which means no manual effort
Best Ice Cream Maker Buying Guide
The deciding factor completely boils down to some key factors which we will explain in details below-
Capacity:
Each of these ice cream makers features different capacities.
While some models feature a lower capacity but make up for it by other features and faster churn of each batch while some models feature larger capacity but at the expense of other critical features.
Your buying decision depends on which feature is more to you.
Time required:
While some models take only about 20 minutes but feature a smaller capacity while those that do feature a larger capacity can often take about 30 minutes and more.
Working mechanism:
Some models feature an automatic compressor-style mechanism and other feature manual hand-cranked mechanisms or one with an electric motor model.
Compressor models don’t need the bowl to be pre-frozen to get it started and don’t need any interaction as it is a completely autonomous process.
While the electric and hand-cranked models need ice and salt to be added in to get it working.
Timer:
Some model features and audible timers that have voice conformation when it’s ready while others simply display a countdown of time required in an LCD display or by LED indicators.
Some models feature various advanced sensors that will keep the ice cream cooler inside for a longer duration if you forget to take the ice cream out.
The freezer/Mixer bowls:
The capacity, size, and shape of the freezer bowl is also different in every model.
Some feature a smaller size and a clear rounded shape while others feature a tall and unique shape that helps the mixture of ice cream stay smooth and creamier.
Automatic vs Manual:
Automatic compressor styled models are the best out there that does all the work but costs quite a bit.
The manual ones, on the other hand, need to be filled with ice salt while the hand-cranked model is even worse as you will need to manually rotate the mixture in the freezer bowl by hand.
Additional features:
Some model features LCD display, Additional slots, and container to keep toppings, mix-ins, and even a cone holder.
Some even feature smart audible voice features that will notify the user through voice interaction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Why should you get an automatic one over manual?
A. Although it costs more, you should still prefer to go for the automatic ones as they feature a compressor which makes the texture and consistency of your favorite ice cream smoother and creamier as compared to the manual ones.
Automatic ones also don’t need ice and salt as the compressor inside the automatic ones does all the freezing needed for the process while manual ones need ice and salt to be filled in before you can begin.
Q2. Should you buy more expensive models just for the additional features and benefits?
A. While you can make your ice cream without any additional features, getting one of the feature rich models will indeed make you’re a lot easier if you plan to do this regularly.
Q3. Does the size of the freezer bowl matter?
A. Yes, the larger size of the bowl means you can pour in more ice cream mixture and that in turn can get your ice cream in each batch while in smaller bowls, you will have to make multiple batches to get the same amount.
Conclusion
While there are other options out there, our team has carefully selected these models after various tests and found them to be the 10 best ice cream makers.
With such a detailed list, we hope that you found everything you were looking for.
If you have any other queries or anything, feel free to contact us and we will help you figure it out.
