7 Best Ice Cream Makers for Delicious Homemade Desserts in 2025

If you’re serious about crafting restaurant-quality ice cream at home in 2025, choosing the right machine makes all the difference. From compact, easy-to-use models suited for small batches to high-capacity, multi-flavor machines for parties, there’s a lot to weigh—like freezing times, ingredient flexibility, and cleaning ease. With some models reaching freeze times as quick as 20 minutes and holding up to 2 quarts of your favorite flavors, which unit truly deserves your attention?

Ninja CREAMi Deluxe Ice Cream & Frozen Treat Maker

If you need an ice cream maker for big family parties or gatherings, the Ninja CREAMi Deluxe (Model NC501) is a good choice. It has a large capacity with two 24 oz. tubs, which is 50% more than most standard models. This means you can make more treats at once. It can turn ingredients into many frozen goodies, like ice cream, sorbet, gelato, Italian ice, frozen yogurt, milkshakes, and frozen drinks. It has an 11-in-1 feature that makes it easy to make different treats. Its special Creamify technology uses dual-drive motors to spin the paddle downward. This helps shave frozen ingredients into tiny bits for smooth, creamy textures. The machine measures about 12 inches long, 8 inches wide, and 17 inches tall. It uses only the new NC500 tubs, so make sure you have those.

Best for: families and party hosts who want large amounts of frozen treats and easy-to-use features.

Pros:

• Big capacity with two 24 oz. tubs. Perfect for serving many people.
• 11 different ways to make treats, like ice cream, gelato, and drinks.
• Can re-freeze and reprocess treats to get the texture you want.

Cons:

• The machine can be loud when it runs.
• It only works with NC500 tubs, not older CREAMi models.
• You need to fill and level the tubs carefully to avoid leaks and keep it working well.

This ice cream maker is great if you want to make lots of treats easily. It helps you create different frozen desserts quickly and with less fuss. Just remember, it works best with the right tubs and needs some care when filling.

VEVOR Soft Serve Ice Cream Machine for Commercial Use

The VEVOR Soft Serve Ice Cream Machine is perfect for busy places like ice cream shops, festivals, food trucks, cafes, and bars. It makes a lot of ice cream quickly—about 10 to 15 liters every hour. The machine has a 4-liter hopper and a 1.6-liter stainless-steel cylinder. It can freeze ice cream fast, first taking about 15 minutes to get ready, then less than 6 minutes for each new batch.

This machine is easy to use. It has a simple touch control panel. You can set it to automatically cool down, clean itself, or adjust the timers. Made from strong SUS201 stainless steel, it resists rust and lasts a long time. The food-grade cylinder is made from SUS304 steel, which keeps everything safe and clean.

The machine measures about 8.3 x 22.8 x 27.6 inches and weighs around 99 pounds. It is a good choice for places that need steady, high-quality soft serve. It helps you serve more ice cream faster, so customers stay happy.

Best for:

• Places that sell a lot of ice cream quickly
• Events like festivals and outdoor markets
• Food trucks, cafes, and bars that want fresh treats

Pros:

• Makes 10-15 liters of ice cream each hour
• Easy to operate with automatic cooling, cleaning, and timers
• Built from strong, rust-proof stainless steel
• Food-grade safety features

Cons:

• Some users say it can be loud and make beeping sounds often
• Only makes about 3 cups of ice cream per cycle, so there might be some wait during busy times
• Has high power needs, which might be a problem if your outlet or generator isn’t strong enough

This machine helps you serve a lot of soft serve fast and keeps quality high. It’s a good choice if you need reliable and quick ice cream for your business.

Ice Cream Maker with Freezer Bowl and LCD Timer

The Vilupvie Ice Cream Maker is a great choice for busy families and home cooks. It has a 1.5-quart freezer bowl that stays cold so you can make ice cream quickly. In just 25 to 40 minutes, you can get 4 to 6 servings of your favorite treats. The digital LCD screen and touch buttons make it easy to use. You can also add mix-ins like nuts or fruit to make your ice cream extra special. The machine is small, about 17 by 10 by 8 inches, and lightweight at just 6.4 pounds. You can easily keep it on your counter. It runs quietly and is made with eco-friendly materials. This makes it simple and stylish for easy homemade desserts.

Best for: families and home cooks who want quick, easy, and customizable ice cream and frozen treats.

Pros:

• Easy to use with a digital timer and touch buttons.
• Small and stylish design, easy to store.
• Makes ice cream fast in 25-40 minutes. Runs quietly, good for late-night snacks.

Cons:

• Not dishwasher safe. You need to rinse it with warm water and mild soap after use.
• Makes only 4 to 6 servings at a time, so it might not be enough for big groups.
• No clear warranty details are given, so support for long-term use may be limited.

Ninja Swirl CREAMi Ice Cream and Soft Serve Maker (NC701)

The Ninja Swirl CREAMi NC701 is a home ice cream maker. It is easy to use and makes different frozen treats. The machine has special Creamify Technology that helps turn ingredients into smooth ice cream or other desserts. It offers 13 one-touch programs. You can make ice cream, sorbet, milkshakes, and more.

This machine allows you to choose what goes inside. You can make low-sugar, dairy-free, vegan, or high-protein options. The digital display shows settings clearly. It has a built-in timer and turns off automatically when done. Cleanup is easy because most parts are dishwasher safe.

Some people find the machine loud. It can also be tricky to get the swirl handle just right. Also, it may have issues working outside the US due to different electrical standards. Overall, it makes good frozen desserts and turns your kitchen into a small ice cream shop.

Best For: Home cooks who want to make customizable, tasty frozen treats. They can choose healthy ingredients and try many flavors.

Pros:

• 13 simple programs for ice cream, sorbet, milkshakes, and more
• Lets you control ingredients for low-sugar, dairy-free, or high-protein recipes
• Easy to use with a clear digital display and timer
• Cleanup is simple with dishwasher-safe parts

Cons:

• It can be loud when it runs
• Using the swirl handle well takes practice
• Might not work well outside the US due to electrical differences

VEVOR Fried Ice Cream Roll Machine

If you run a small business like a café or a street stand, you need a compact ice cream roll machine that’s easy to use. The VEVOR Fried Ice Cream Roll Machine is a good choice. It’s small, measuring 11 by 9.5 inches, and is made of stainless steel. The pan uses SUS304 steel, which makes cleaning simple and helps prevent rust. The outside uses SUS201, which makes it sturdy.

This machine cools quickly. It goes from 32°C (89°F) down to -24°C (-11°F) in about 8 minutes. Thanks to its air cooling system, it cools fast and efficiently. The work surface is 280 x 240 mm, which is enough space to make ice cream, frozen yogurt, and other frozen treats. It also comes with two stainless steel scrapers to help you create nice, even rolls.

This machine is perfect for small shops, street vendors, or cafes that want a simple, manual machine to make frozen desserts quickly. It doesn’t take up much space but still provides a good size work area.

Good for: Small business owners who want a small, easy-to-use ice cream roll machine to make frozen treats quickly.

Pros:

• Made of stainless steel, so it’s easy to clean and won’t rust
• Cools down fast, in about 8 minutes
• Small size with a big enough work space for limited areas

Cons:

• Sometimes cooling isn’t even, and parts of the surface don’t freeze well
• Some units come damaged or don’t work right when they arrive
• Customer reviews vary, with some concerned about how long it lasts

DASH Ice Cream Maker Machine with 2 Bowls

Are you looking for a small, easy-to-use ice cream maker? The DASH Ice Cream Maker is a great choice. It comes with two bowls that you freeze beforehand. Each bowl is about 7.2 inches long, 5.9 inches wide, and 6.9 inches tall. It weighs around 4.8 pounds, so it’s easy to move around.

This machine can make soft serve ice cream, gelato, sorbet, or frozen yogurt in about 20 minutes. It uses a double-insulated system to keep the mixture cold while it freezes. You can add extra ingredients like nuts or fruit through a small built-in chute, so your treats can be customized easily.

One fun feature is the dual-purpose mug. It can be frozen and used as a reusable cup, making it simple to enjoy your ice cream and clean up afterward. This is perfect if you have a small kitchen or want a quick dessert for just one person.

This ice cream maker is best for people or small families who want quick, personalized frozen treats. It’s simple to set up and clean because the parts are removable. It makes consistent soft serve in about 20 minutes and takes up little space, making it ideal for small kitchens.

However, it does have a few downsides. The small opening for pouring might make it hard to add ingredients or fill the bowl smoothly. Sometimes, the ice cream may stick to the sides or freeze unevenly inside the mug. Also, the machine can get hot or stop working for a short period, so you should watch it while it runs.

Ice Cream Maker Machine 12-in-1

The Ice Cream Maker Machine 12-in-1 is a great choice for families and anyone who wants easy, quick, and fun homemade ice cream. It is fully automatic, so you don’t have to do much to get your treats. It is made of stainless steel, which lasts a long time. The machine uses Ic-Vortex technology, and it has dual-sided blades that spin in 360°. This helps make smooth ice cream without icy chunks.

The machine has 12 one-touch programs. You can make different flavors like gelato, sorbet, and frozen yogurt with just one press. You can even make multiple flavors at the same time, saving you time. The process is fast. You get soft-serve ice cream in less than 5 minutes.

Cleaning the machine is simple. The parts that come apart are dishwasher safe, so you can clean and put it away easily. This keeps your kitchen tidy and makes making ice cream fun for everyone.

Best For: Families and people who want fast, easy, and customizable ice cream. The machine is compact and easy to clean.

Pros:

• Fully automatic with many easy programs.
• Uses Ic-Vortex technology for smooth ice cream.
• Dishwasher-safe parts make cleaning simple.

Cons:

• You need to freeze the base before use, which takes extra time.
• The ice cream might be soft and may need more time in the freezer to firm up.
• Replacement containers can be expensive if lost or broken.

This machine makes homemade ice cream quick and simple. It’s perfect for those who want variety and fun in their kitchen.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Ice Cream Makers for Desserts

When selecting an ice cream maker for your dessert needs, you’ll want to contemplate capacity—do you prefer a personal-sized 1-quart model or a family-friendly 2-quart machine that can handle more than just your solo scoops? Ease of use matters too—will you spend more time wrestling with complicated settings or enjoying quick, straightforward operation that gets the job done in under 30 minutes? Finally, think about ingredient flexibility, maintenance, and storage; after all, who wants a bulky, high-maintenance gadget that hogs your countertops and refuses to work with alternative ingredients?

Capacity Requirements

Choosing the right ice cream maker depends on how much ice cream you want to make. If you usually make small batches for yourself or a friend, look for a machine with a 1 to 2-quart bowl. These are great because they serve 1-2 people and are easy to clean. If you want to make ice cream for your family or for parties, pick a model with over 3-quart capacity. These can make enough for everyone in one go and save time. Some makers let you refreeze the batch to make more ice cream, which means you can keep making it without waiting.

If you like to try different flavors at the same time, find a machine with multiple containers or tubs. Make sure the size of the machine matches how often you use it. Having the right size makes making ice cream simple and fun. It helps you get tasty treats without needing to empty or refill the machine all the time.

Ease of Use

Have you ever thought making ice cream could be as easy as pushing a button? Many new ice cream makers have simple controls, like digital screens or easy buttons. These make it simple for anyone to use. You don’t need to do much to get started. Some machines come with bowls that are already frozen, so you don’t have to plan days ahead. They also have features like pre-cooling or auto-cleaning that save time and effort. Look for machines that show clear instructions, have LCD displays, or light up to guide you. Machines with fewer parts or dishwasher-safe pieces make cleaning quick and easy. When a machine is simple to use, making ice cream turns into a fun activity, not a hassle.

Ingredient Flexibility

Many ice cream makers now let you use lots of different ingredients. This means you can try more than just regular ice cream. You can make dairy-free, vegan, low-sugar, or high-protein ice creams. You change the ingredients to make your dessert healthier or tastier. You can add mix-ins like fruits, nuts, or chocolate chips. This makes your ice cream more fun and unique. Some machines let you put hot or cold ingredients in at different times. This gives you more recipe options. The machine’s ability to use frozen, liquid, or solid ingredients also helps you make many kinds of treats. Overall, flexible ice cream makers help you create special, tasty desserts that fit your cravings and needs.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Cleaning and taking care of your ice cream maker is just as important as choosing the right flavors. Look for models that have parts you can put in the dishwasher, like removable blades and containers. They make cleaning much easier and faster. Inside the bowls and tubs, coatings that don’t stain or soak up stuff help stop gunk from building up and are simpler to wash. Be sure to clean paddles, scoops, and nozzles regularly. If you forget, bacteria can grow or the machine might not work well anymore. Some ice cream makers have special self-cleaning or auto-clean features. These are great if you use the machine a lot or run a store. Remember to dry all parts completely before putting your machine away. Don’t use rough tools to clean, because they can hurt the parts. Keeping everything clean and dry helps your ice cream maker last longer and work smoothly. That way, you won’t get any sticky surprises.

Size and Storage

Thinking about size and storage is important when picking an ice cream maker. First, check how much ice cream the machine can make at once. Smaller models usually make 1 to 2 quarts, which is good for one or two people. If you have a big family or want to make a lot of ice cream, look for a bigger machine.

Next, see if the size of the machine fits in your kitchen. Some are small enough to keep in a cabinet. Others need a spot on the counter. Measure the height, width, and depth of the machine. Compare these to the space you have available.

Also, think about how easy it is to store the containers. Removable or stackable parts make storage simple and help keep your kitchen neat. A machine that is too bulky for your space can be a problem.

Choose a size that fits well in your kitchen and meets your needs. This way, you can enjoy making ice cream without clutter or trouble.

Versatile Functionality

Choosing an ice cream maker with versatile features means finding a machine that does more than just freeze. Look for models that can make gelato, sorbet, frozen yogurt, and shakes. Some machines let you create different kinds of treats for everyone’s tastes. Pick a machine that can handle dairy-free, vegan, or protein-packed recipes. This way, everyone can enjoy dessert.

Many ice cream makers have interchangeable containers. This makes switching flavors quick and easy, so you spend less time cleaning. Some machines even have add-in chutes or stirring parts. These let you add fruits, nuts, or chocolates while the machine is working.

Good models come with preset programs and adjustable controls. These let you choose the texture and thickness you want. Having these features means you can try out many kinds of frozen desserts. It also helps you make sure everyone gets a treat they will love. With a versatile machine, you’ll be ready to make all kinds of cool treats at any time.

Noise Levels

Noise levels matter when choosing an ice cream maker. Some machines are loud and sound like a vacuum cleaner. This is common with models that have strong motors used in shops or restaurants. The loud noise can be annoying, especially if you make ice cream late at night or if others in your home are sensitive to noise.

Quiet ice cream makers use special sound-absorbing materials, slower motors, or insulated cases to stay quieter. During the first few minutes of freezing or when re-spinning the ice cream to get it just right, you might hear some louder sounds. But these usually last only a short time.

You can learn about noise by reading customer reviews or checking the product details. Picking a machine with low noise makes making ice cream fun and peaceful. It also helps keep your home quiet and comfortable.

Price and Budget

Price and budget are important when choosing an ice cream maker. Basic models that you need to turn by hand can cost less than $50. They are a good way to make ice cream at home without spending a lot. If you want more features, some machines cost over $300. These high-end models can make larger amounts and have different programs.

Your budget helps you decide what to buy. If you want a small machine for quick treats, look for one that is cheaper. If you plan to make ice cream often, a more expensive machine with extra features might be worth it. Some pricier models are easier to clean or come with extra containers. These can be helpful if you make ice cream a lot.

If your budget is small, focus on the main things. Make sure the machine can freeze well and lasts a long time. Remember to think about the cost of replacement parts later on. Buying a good machine means you can enjoy making ice cream for a long time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can These Ice Cream Makers Make Dairy-Free or Vegan Ice Cream?

You can absolutely make dairy-free or vegan ice cream with these ice cream makers. Just use plant-based milks and non-dairy ingredients, then follow the recipes or customize your own for delicious, dairy-free treats at home.

How Long Does It Typically Take to Freeze Homemade Ice Cream?

You’ll usually spend about 20 to 40 minutes freezing homemade ice cream, depending on your recipe and freezer temperature. Make sure to check your machine’s instructions for the best results and to prevent overfreezing.

Are There Models Suitable for Making Large Quantities Regularly?

You should look for ice cream makers with larger bowls or commercial-grade capacities. These models let you make big batches regularly, saving time and effort so you can enjoy plenty of homemade treats without constant refilling.

Can These Machines Also Prepare Sorbet or Frozen Yogurt?

Yes, these machines often come with multiple attachments and settings, allowing you to easily make sorbet or frozen yogurt. You simply select the appropriate program, and your machine handles the blending and freezing processes for delicious results.

What’s the Maintenance Process for These Home Ice Cream Makers?

You should regularly clean your ice cream maker, checking the manufacturer’s instructions for specific details. Usually, you rinse parts, wipe surfaces, and sometimes deep clean the bowl or paddle to keep it functioning smoothly and prevent odors.