As summer rolls around, ice cream becomes an irresistible treat any time of the day—we might even indulge our kids with it for lunch now and then! Watching children happily savor a dripping ice cream cone while playing outdoors captures the essence of summer sweetness. While stocking up on store-bought ice cream can earn you some parenting brownie points, nothing compares to the joy of making homemade ice cream together as a family. The excitement is palpable, especially when toppings are involved!
Is Investing in an Ice Cream Maker Worth It?
Absolutely! Though it may seem daunting (we all remember our parents laboring over hand-cranked machines), modern ice cream makers have evolved significantly. Today’s models often feature electric motors, and many don’t require ice or salt, while others can be filled directly with the ice cream base—no need for pre-freezing. The key is finding the right ice cream maker that fits your needs and budget, as well as considering how much patience your little helpers have. With the right tools, whipping up homemade ice cream becomes a delightful family activity where everyone can contribute to crafting their unique flavors.
We’ve compiled a list of the top eight ice cream makers suitable for everyone—whether you’re a novice or a seasoned pro. And don’t forget to set up an exciting sundae bar with whipped cream and toppings for the kids!
Best Overall Ice Cream Makers
- Cuisinart ICE-100 Ice Cream and Gelato Maker
- Enjoy homemade gelato or ice cream in just an hour! This model eliminates the need for ice and salt, allowing for a mess-free experience. Just prepare your base, pour it in, select the paddle, and start. You’ll be surprised at how quickly you’ll have a creamy treat.
- Cuisinart ICE-45 Soft Serve Ice Cream Maker
- Transform your kitchen into a sundae station. This model dispenses soft serve directly from the handle and includes spots for three mix-ins, perfect for topping off your creations.
- Nostalgia Electric Ice Cream Maker
- With a vintage wooden bucket design, this electric ice cream maker offers a classic touch and produces four quarts of delicious ice cream, frozen yogurt, or gelato in about 20 minutes.
- Whynter ICM-200LS Ice Cream Maker
- A two-time winner of the Best Ice Cream Maker accolade, this powerful compressor model can churn out creamy frozen delights in just 30-40 minutes and features an extended cool function.
- DASH My Pint Electric Ice Cream Maker
- Perfect for single servings, this compact machine allows you to whip up personalized portions with ease.
- Cuisinart ICE-21CGR 1.5 Quart Ice Cream Maker
- An excellent entry-level model for those new to homemade ice cream. The insulated bowl requires chilling beforehand, but it’s a fun way to involve the kids in the process.
- KitchenAid® Stand Mixer Ice Cream Maker Attachment
- If you already own a KitchenAid mixer, this attachment is a must-have. It churns 2-quarts of ice cream in about 30 minutes and is easy for kids to use.
- Elite Gourmet 6 Quart Electric Ice Cream Maker Machine
- Ideal for larger batches, this model ensures you have plenty of ice cream for the whole family.
Summary
Making homemade ice cream is a delightful summer activity that brings the family together. With a variety of machines available, from soft serve makers to compact options, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re creating classic flavors or experimenting with new combinations, the joy of homemade ice cream is unmatched. For more insights on family-friendly activities and resources, check out our other blog posts like this one and discover more about home insemination or explore infertility resources.