Homemade ice cream isn’t just a summer treat—it’s a year-round pleasure. Whether you’re craving creamy gelato, healthy smoothie bowls, or soft serve that rivals your favorite dessert shop, a high-quality ice cream maker is a must-have for your kitchen. In this guide, we’ve rounded up the best ice cream makers available right now. Each model combines functionality, convenience, and great customer reviews to help you find your perfect frozen dessert companion.
1. Ninja NC301 CREAMi Ice Cream Maker
Best for Variety and Kids-Friendly Treats
The Ninja NC301 CREAMi takes homemade ice cream to the next level. It’s not just for ice cream—this 7-in-1 machine also makes gelato, sorbet, smoothie bowls, milkshakes, and more. With two pint containers included, it’s perfect for families or anyone who loves experimenting with flavors and mix-ins.
Key Features:
- 7 one-touch programs for easy use
- Includes 2 pint containers with lids
- Ideal size for kids and small kitchens
- Dishwasher-safe parts for easy cleanup
Why we love it: Compact yet powerful, the NC301 makes creamy desserts with minimal prep. Great for kids’ treats and adult indulgences alike.
2. Cuisinart ICE-70P1 Cool Creations Ice Cream Maker
Best for Capacity and Convenience
If you’re making frozen treats for a group, the Cuisinart ICE-70P1 is an excellent choice. It holds up to 2 quarts and features an LCD screen with a countdown timer for precise control over your dessert texture.
Key Features:
- Large 2-quart capacity
- Pre-programmed settings for ice cream, gelato, and sorbet
- LCD screen and digital timer
- Stylish stainless-steel finish
Why we love it: It’s a no-fuss machine that consistently produces smooth, professional-quality results with the touch of a button.
3. Ninja CREAMi NC299AMZ Ice Cream Maker
Best for Healthy Frozen Desserts
The Ninja CREAMi NC299AMZ is ideal for health-conscious ice cream lovers. Whether you want low-sugar treats or dairy-free options, this 7-in-1 device lets you control every ingredient. It’s compact, easy to store, and designed with kids in mind.
Key Features:
- 7-in-1 functionality
- Works with a variety of ingredients including low-fat and dairy-free options
- Compact design fits neatly on countertops
- Comes with pints and lids
Why we love it: Perfect for customizing your treats—make it keto, vegan, low-calorie, or full of indulgent mix-ins.
4. Breville Smart Scoop Ice Cream Maker BCI600XL
Best Premium Ice Cream Maker
For serious dessert lovers, the Breville Smart Scoop is a premium pick. With a brushed stainless-steel build and 12 hardness settings, it gives you complete control over your frozen creation—from soft gelato to firm ice cream.
Key Features:
- 12 hardness settings for customized textures
- Self-refrigerating compressor (no pre-freezing required)
- Pre-cool function and keep-cool setting for convenience
- Sleek, durable design
Why we love it: It’s one of the few home machines that rivals professional equipment. Ideal for serious home chefs and ice cream aficionados.
5. Ninja Swirl by CREAMi NC701 Soft Serve Maker
Best for Soft Serve and Low-Calorie Recipes
Want that nostalgic soft-serve swirl at home? The Ninja Swirl NC701 delivers just that. With 13-in-1 functions, it crafts everything from frozen yogurt to low-calorie milkshakes, all with an easy-to-use handle for perfect soft-serve servings.
Key Features:
- 13-in-1 programs including soft serve, frozen yogurt, and sorbet
- Includes (2) 16oz CREAMi Swirl pints
- Soft serve handle for easy dispensing
- Perfect for all ages
Why we love it: Fun for kids, ideal for adults watching calories, and delivers that classic ice cream shop experience at home.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best ice cream maker depends on your preferences—whether it’s soft serve, sorbet, or indulgent gelato. The Ninja NC301 and NC299AMZ offer compact, versatile solutions for families and health-conscious eaters. Meanwhile, the Breville Smart Scoop is a premium pick for gourmet-level desserts. Whichever you choose, making frozen treats at home has never been easier—or more delicious.
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