The best ice cream makers for easy frozen desserts

An ice cream maker is an impressive addition to your kitchen, especially if you’re a fan of homemade treats or have food allergies to navigate. And, the best home ice cream makers – the ones worth your money – let you create your own customised ice cream recipes, gelatos, and sorbets, so you can create the weird and wonderful flavours and textures you crave – strawberry and feta anyone?

If you’re looking to cut out certain ingredients, either through necessity or lifestyle choice, an at-home ice cream maker gives you control so you know exactly what’s going into your food. Mum of two Emma tells me: “My son Oliver is dairy intolerant so we bought the Procook ice cream maker to help us create ice cream that he can actually eat and the bonus is we know exactly what goes into it.”

Now, we know you’re interested in an ice cream machine, you’ve Googled it, you’ve scrolled, you’ve clicked and here you are – we know you’re serious. So, we need you to know that there are two main types of ice cream machines. First is the compressor-based ‘self freeze’ ice cream machine – a robust appliance that doesn’t require pre-freezing but may take up some serious kitchen counter space. Then, there’s the more compact option: pre-freeze ice cream makers, which require the bowl to be frozen for about 12 hours before use. While these are more affordable they do involve a bit of planning ahead and room in your freezer, and being honest about the type of person you really are. For example: I forgot I’d planned ice cream and hadn’t put the bowl in the freezer the night before.

Ice cream experts, Elisa Peloni and Fabiano Franzoso, Wecandoo artisans and the founders of award-winning Cremoloso Gelato! tell us: “An all-in-one machine handles everything, from freezing to churning. A manual or freezer bowl model needs pre-freezing and a bit more hands-on love, but both will give you delicious, homemade results. And, depending the model and the ingredients you are using, it typically takes 20-40 minutes. Just enough time to start craving a second scoop!”

We’ve tried and tested 10 of the most popular home ice cream makers out there in our quest for the perfect ice cream at home, from Ninja and Lakeland to Kitchen Aid and Pro Cook and we’ve sought advice from ice cream experts on what to look for and other accessories you may want to try.

The best home ice cream makers at a glance:

• Best ice cream maker overall – Ninja CREAMi™ 7-in-1 Ice Cream & Frozen Dessert Maker
• Best value ice cream maker – Pro Cook ice cream maker
• Best for quiet ice cream making – Lakeland Stainless Steel Digital Ice Cream Maker
• Best for cleaning – Cooks Professional Luxury Soft Serve Ice Cream Maker
• Best budget ice cream maker – VonShef stainless steel ice cream maker
   

What to look for in a home ice cream maker

The main three things to look out for when choosing is the type you’re after, the self freeze or pre freeze models. Next is the bowl capacity. Now, most ice cream makers are between one and two litres, probably best to check the maximum capacity in the manual to avoid problems. Last is the timer: Almost all of the models we tested come with a timer. Useful for those of us who like to set our appliances to go and come back when they’re finished.

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How we tested the best home ice cream makers

When testing each ice cream maker, I focused on a few key features to get a real sense of how they perform. Capacity was important, how much could I churn at once? I also looked at whether the machine needed pre-freezing, which can be a deal-breaker if you’re after convenience, plus freezer space is a premium in our house so the smaller the bowl the better. Churn time mattered too, faster machines definitely scored higher.

Then there was size and weight – important if, like me, you don’t have endless counter space. Extra features caught my attention as well. My six-year-old, for instance, loved the Cuisinart machine because of its fun, playful design with the topping. I also checked how easy each machine was to use and clean, and whether it made too much noise – nobody wants a loud machine while you’re trying to enjoy your ice cream-making experience. Plus, I snapped pictures of the machines, highlighting their unique or standout features.

I used this simple ice cream recipe from Spruce Eats on all of the ice cream machines.

• 250ml cup whole milk
• 50g granulated sugar
• 250ml heavy cream
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

1. Whisk together whole milk and granulated sugar until the sugar is dissolved.
2. Gently stir in heavy cream and vanilla extract.
3. Churn according to the directions of your ice-cream maker’s manufacturer. 
4. Enjoy immediately as soft serve, or freeze in a covered container to your desired firmness, at least 2 hours or overnight.

Ready to read how I tested all the best ice cream makers? Here we take you through them in depth:

Best ice cream makers

1. Ninja CREAMi™ 7-in-1 Ice Cream & Frozen Dessert Maker

£149, AO

Best ice cream maker overall, 9/10

We like: easy to use and fast churning

We don’t like: noisy and can’t make large batches

• 0.47 litres, holds 470ml ingredients
• 24 hour pre-freeze
• 5/10 minutes churn time
• 24 x 48 x 48cm (Too high to sit under cabinets)

This impressive kid came out on top! We loved this so much, it pipped it’s 10-in-1 counterpart to the post for it’s pared back simplicity. Ninja is a hugely popular brand, and it’s easy to see why their Creami ice-cream maker tops our list as the best of all ice cream makers. This sleek, versatile machine is a must-have for any ice cream lover, with the unique ability to churn out both soft serve and traditional harder ice cream, giving you complete control over texture and flavour every time.

Using the Creami is super intuitive, with straightforward controls and seven user-friendly presets that go beyond ice cream to include gelato, smoothies, sorbets, and even milkshakes. The recipe book is a real gem, featuring crowd-pleasing milkshake options that elevate every dessert experience. Plus, with three one-pint tubs included, you can easily make multiple flavours in a single day by prepping different mixtures ahead of time.

While it requires the base to be frozen for 24 hours, the compact 470ml tubs make storage easy, and the five-to-ten-minute churning time means your treat is ready in a flash. It’s on the louder side, and at 24 x 48 x 48 cm, it may be too tall for some cabinet spaces, but these are minor trade-offs for the quality and flexibility the Creami delivers.

For homemade ice cream fans looking for the ultimate in convenience, variety, and quality, the Ninja Creami is truly worth the investment. It’s a fun, all-in-one appliance that turns any kitchen into an ice cream haven, making it the top choice for delicious results in the long run.

2. Pro Cook ice cream maker

£49, ProCook

Best value ice cream maker 8/10

We like: Space saving and easy to store

We don’t like: noisy and can’t make large batches, while the ice cream needs to be frozen upright

• 1.5l
• 24 hours pre-freeze
• 45 minutes churn time
• 20 x 20 x 21.5cm

A reliable, no-frills machine perfect for those who want straightforward homemade ice cream without the added features. With a generous 1.5-litre capacity, it allows you to make enough ice cream for a crowd, though you’ll need to plan ahead – its base mixture requires 24 hours in the freezer. Once ready, the machine churns creamy ice cream in about 45 minutes, and thanks to its simple design, there are no unnecessary extras to complicate the process.

It’s compact size and small weight ( just 2.3kg), it’s compact enough to store easily and move around as needed. Despite its powerful performance, the Pro Cook Ice Cream Maker operates quietly, meaning you won’t have to deal with annoying noise while waiting for your frozen treats. It’s an ideal choice for anyone who values simplicity and reliability over bells and whistles. If you’re looking for a basic, dependable ice cream maker that delivers quality results without fuss, this model is a solid pick.

3. Lakeland Stainless Steel Digital Ice Cream Maker

£49.99, Lakeland 

Best for quiet ice cream making, 8/10

We like: clear lid so you can ‘see the magic’ (what my six year old said)

We don’t like: it doesn’t make sorbet and the controls were very sensitive to spills

• 1.5 litre bowl
• 12 hour pre-freeze
• 25 minute churn time
• 20.5cm x 24cm H

When unboxing the Lakeland ice cream maker, its compact size was a welcome surprise. Measuring just 20.5cm in diameter and 24cm in height, it fits neatly on the kitchen counter, and at 3.2kg, it’s easy to store after use. With a 1.5-litre bowl and an 800ml working capacity, it’s perfect for making small, manageable batches of ice cream. The paddle feels sturdy and well-made, capable of handling thicker mixtures with ease.

Assembling the machine is very simple, as each part clicks into place around the bowl with minimal fuss. Lakeland recommends a 12-hour freeze for the bowl, with a 25-minute churn time for ice cream. The included recipe booklet provides seven starter recipes, though it lacks options for sorbet. Impressively, it’s the quietest model we tested, producing just a gentle hum instead of the usual whirr.

The touch-screen controls on top make clean up simple, although they are sensitive, so it’s easy to spill when pouring in ingredients, especially with a helpful child. This paused our churning briefly, but restarting was hassle-free. For fuss-free, homemade ice cream in a quiet, compact package, this ice cream maker is an excellent choice.

4. Cooks Professional Luxury Soft Serve Ice Cream Maker

£424.99, Amazon

Best ice cream maker for cleaning 8/10

We like: automatic cleaning programme and no pre-freeze needed

We don’t like: very big machine which take ups a lot of space

• 1000g capacity
• No pre-freeze required
• 40 minutes churn time
• 42 x 28 x 47 cm

This soft serve ice cream maker is a true showstopper, with a sleek, high-end look that wouldn’t be out of place in a celebrity’s kitchen. Its glossy stainless-steel exterior and intuitive digital control panel give it the style of a luxury appliance. But at £424, the price begs the question: how many ice creams do you need to justify the splurge? With my decidedly bad maths at play, I think you would make your money back after approximately 270 portions.

One major advantage is its built-in compressor, meaning there’s no need to pre-freeze the bowl – ideal if you’re craving a spontaneous soft-serve. This setup is perfect for serious ice cream lovers or families who enjoy frequent frozen treats, as it can produce batch after batch without hassle. The machine’s lever-controlled dispenser delivers smooth, aerated soft-serve in about 40 minutes, and it churned out impressive results in testing.

It’s practical, too; with easy-to-clean parts, a self-cooling function, and a generous 1000g capacity – meaning maintenance is nearly effortless. Although it’s a bit noisy, the machine is hassle-free: simply pour in, press start, and walk away until you hear the beep. At 42 x 28 x 47 cm and 29.6kg, it’s a large but worthy addition for any home ice cream enthusiast.

5. VonShef stainless steel ice cream maker

£39.99, Amazon

Best budget ice cream maker 7/10

We like: great for space saving and how fast it is

We don’t like: no timer

• 2l capacity
• 8-12 hour pre-freeze requirement
• Churn time:40 mins churn time
• H31 x W24 x D23.6cm

The Vonshef ice cream maker bought a strikingly futuristic touch to my kitchen – mainly down to its design – two brushed stainless-steel cylinders that make it stand out. Its compact design also takes up minimal counter space and fits easily into the freezer, making it both stylish and practical.

This model uses a freeze-first approach with a generous 2-litre bowl that tucks away neatly in the freezer until you’re ready to create. After 8-12 hours of freezing, it takes around 40 minutes to churn up creamy ice cream. I found the lids handy feeding chute perfect for pouring in the base and adding mix-ins like chocolate or nuts.

With a single on/off button, using this machine was refreshingly simple, no extra settings or timers, though you’ll need to keep an eye on it as it churns. Assembly can be a little tricky, as the housing must be arranged around the bowl rather than simply slotted in; after a couple of tries, it becomes more intuitive. One downside is the opaque black lid, which makes it hard to check on progress visually, so you’ll rely on the soft brushing noise to tell when it’s done. While not entirely silent, I found the Vonshef is quiet enough for an enjoyable, fuss-free ice cream-making experience.

6. Ninja CREAMi™ Deluxe 10-in-1 Ice Cream & Frozen Dessert Maker

£238, AO

Best ice cream maker overall, 7/10

We like: how versatile it is, comes with freezable tubs and it’s dishwasher safe

We don’t like: it’s quite expensive

• 0.68l capacity
• 12 hours pre-freeze
• 5-10 minutes churn time
• H42.4 x W30.5 x D21.4

The Ninja Creami Deluxe 10-in-1 Ice Cream and Frozen Drink Maker is a powerhouse addition to any kitchen, taking homemade ice cream to the next level. With 10 functions, it’s incredibly versatile, though, admittedly, a bit overwhelming if you’re just after quick, easy ice cream. At a height of 42.4 cm and a weight of 6.4 kg, it’s a substantial appliance that commands its counter top space.

The machine is designed with ease of use in mind. Its large, tactile dial and satisfyingly clicky buttons make it a pleasure to operate. The small digital display shows processing times ranging from five to ten minutes, and it’s impressively fast at transforming mixtures into creamy desserts. It also comes with handy freezable tubs, so you’re set to make frozen drinks and desserts with ease, and the parts are dishwasher safe for simple clean up.

Recently, my family joined in to make our own ice cream creations. The excitement was real as my six-year-old twisted the dial, and we watched as our mixture became perfectly creamy in just minutes, though it was quite noisy. Seeing the look of joy on my son’s face as he enjoyed his homemade ice cream made it all worth it. The Creami Deluxe brings both fun and functionality to any kitchen, making it a perfect pick for family treats.

7. Cuisinart Soft Serve Ice Cream Maker

£159.99, Lakeland

Best ice cream maker for kids, 8/10

We like: can make up to 10 servings in one

We don’t like: big bowl takes up freezer space and its high cost

• 1.42 litre capacity bowl
• 24 hour pre-freeze
• 20 minutes churn time
• 23.9 x 31.4 x 50cm H (Too high to sit under cabinets)

If you’re craving creamy, soft-serve ice cream – think Mr. Whippy vibes with any toppings you fancy – the Cuisinart Soft Serve Ice Cream & Slushy Maker has got you covered. For a home ice cream maker, this one is a total hit with kids; you could even center a small birthday party around it and be confident it would impress.

Setting up the machine is quick and easy, taking just five simple steps that, when I timed it, took under five minutes. Once assembled, it’s ready to go – but keep in mind that you’ll need to chill the mixture for at least four hours beforehand. With a 1.42-litre capacity bowl, it can hold plenty for everyone, though it stands a bit tall at 23.9 x 31.4 x 50 cm, so make sure to plan your kitchen setup accordingly.

8. KitchenAid Ice Cream Maker Attachment

£106.24, Amazon

Best ice cream maker for attachments, 8/10

We like: how simple and straightforward the attachment is and how quiet it is

We don’t like: difficult to load the ice cream mix and its inconsistent freezing

• 1.9 litre capacity
• 15 hours pre-freeze
• 40 minutes churn time
• Size: ‎17.8 x 28 x 21.6 cm

The KitchenAid Ice Cream Maker attachment keeps things refreshingly simple. Designed to fit most KitchenAid mixers with capacities of 4.5 quarts or larger (excluding models KSM6573C and KSM7), it includes just three main parts: a 1.9-litre bowl, drive assembly, and dasher. Make sure to double-check your mixer model, as attachment varies for tilt-head versus bowl-lift models, but the instructions are clear with helpful diagrams for each.

One thing to keep in mind is that the bowl requires at least 15 hours in the freezer beforehand. The bowl’s sticky-out handles make freezer fitting a bit tricky, but placement is essential for optimal results. In our experience, stashing it in the coldest part of the freezer ensures a properly frozen batch every time.

Using the attachment is intuitive, with minimal setup required beyond freezing. Once in action, it operates quietly at the first speed setting, though it does get louder as churning progresses. Overall, it’s a dependable choice for KitchenAid owners who don’t mind the freezer prep and want the convenience of homemade ice cream without a full machine.

9. ProCook Professional Ice Cream Maker

£149, ProCook

Best self-freezing ice cream maker, 8/10

We like: the chic aesthetics and the no-freeze technology

We don’t like: not dishwasher safe

• 2l Capacity
• No freeze time
• 45 minutes churn time
• 37cm x 27cm x 22cm

ProCook has made quite a splash in the world of electrical appliances with its inaugural ice-cream maker, and we were genuinely delighted by the creamy, thick ice cream it whipped up in just 45 minutes.

This innovative machine uses ‘no-freeze compression technology,’ which means you can skip the tedious step of freezing the 1.2L bowl beforehand. It also has convenient presets for ice cream, a cooling mode that chills the mixture without stirring, and a stirring mode that mixes without cooling – this spoke to me, I’m all about simple steps.

While it’s more compact and lightweight compared to other models on the market, it’s still roughly the size of a small microwave. So, if you’re not planning to keep it on the countertop permanently, be prepared to allocate a bit of cupboard space for storage. We were particularly impressed by its robust construction and user-friendly digital display, which made assembly a breeze. Our six-year-old even took the lead in operation. Extra points go to ProCook for thoughtful packaging – most of which is recyclable, making it a win for eco-conscious families.

10. Judge Electricals, Ice Cream Maker

£64, Judge

Best ice cream maker for cleaning, 7/10

We like: no pre-freeze needed and its small compact design

We don’t like: it couldn’t make sorbet and the controls were very sensitive to spills

• 1.5l capacity
• 8 hours+ pre-freeze
• 45minutes churn time
• 24cm x 20cm x 20cm

This Judge ice cream maker is a compact, budget-friendly choice that’s perfect for small family kitchens. With a 1.5-litre capacity, it’s great for whipping up delicious batches of ice cream, sorbet, or frozen yogurt, all at a reasonable price compared to many other machines on the market. Setup is a breeze, and thanks to its one-button operation even children can easily join in, adding ingredients and watching the mixture churn. We loved using this machine as a family, bonding and laughing over our dessert-making while introducing our son to the joys of cooking.

Ice Cream maker FAQs

What is the best way to use an ice cream maker?

The best way to use an ice cream maker, according to Elisa Peloni and Fabiano Franzoso, founders of Cremoloso Gelato, is to chill your mixture thoroughly before adding it to the machine. “A well-chilled base allows the machine to work faster and prevents large ice crystals from forming,” Peloni explains. They also recommend adding the mix gradually, especially with a compressor-based ice cream maker, and ensuring the bowl is pre-frozen if using a pre-freeze model. As Franzoso notes, “Avoid overfilling, as this can reduce the quality of the churn.”

How long does it take for my ice cream maker to make ice cream?

The time it takes for an ice cream maker to make ice cream varies depending on the type of machine you have:

Compressor Ice Cream Makers: These machines have built-in freezers, so they don’t require pre-freezing the bowl. They typically take about 30–60 minutes to churn ice cream, depending on the model and the recipe.

Freeze-First Bowl Ice Cream Makers: With these, the bowl needs to be frozen for 12–24 hours before you can make ice cream. Once the bowl is frozen, churning usually takes around 15–30 minutes.

Check your specific model’s manual for the best results, as times can vary based on machine power, recipe, and desired texture. Peloni agrees: “It does depend on the model and the ingredients you are using but it typically takes 20-40 minutes. Just enough time to start craving a second scoop.”

What’s the difference between an all-in-one ice cream machine or a manual or freezer bowl ice cream machine?

The difference between an all-in-one ice cream machine and a manual or freezer bowl ice cream machine mainly lies in how they freeze and churn the mixture and the convenience they offer. Franzoso tells me: “An all-in-one machine handles everything, from freezing to churning. A manual or freezer bowl model needs pre-freezing and a bit more hands-on love, but both will give you delicious, homemade results.”

Here’s a breakdown of each type:

All-in-One Ice Cream Machines (compressor machines): These machines have a built-in compressor that freezes the mixture as it churns, so there’s no need to pre-freeze a bowl. They’re the most convenient type of ice cream maker, as you can make multiple batches back-to-back without waiting. Churning times are typically 30-60 minutes, depending on the model and recipe. They tend to be larger, heavier, and more expensive due to the compressor.

Freezer Bowl Ice Cream Machines: With these, you pre-freeze the bowl for 12-24 hours before making ice cream. Once the bowl is frozen, you add the mixture and let the machine churn it. Churning usually takes 15-30 minutes. These are more affordable and compact than all-in-one machines but require planning since the bowl must be frozen in advance. If you want to make more than one batch, you’ll need to refreeze the bowl or have a second frozen bowl ready. Each type has its benefits, so the best choice depends on how often you plan to make ice cream and how involved you want the process to be.

How do I clean my ice cream maker?

Cleaning your ice cream maker is straightforward but varies slightly depending on the type you have. Elisa Franzoso tells me; “Most parts are easily detachable and dishwasher-safe, but do check as it will vary from machine to machine. A quick rinse through hot water and a wipe down after each use should keep your machine in top shape and ready for the next batch.”

1. Unplug and Disassemble

• Unplug the machine and disassemble all removable parts, like the bowl, paddle, lid, and any mixing accessories.
• For compressor models, don’t submerge the base, as it contains electrical components.

2. Wash Removable Parts

• Rinse all parts immediately after use to prevent any residual mixture from sticking.
• Hand-wash the bowl, paddle, and lid with warm, soapy water. Most bowls and paddles aren’t dishwasher-safe, as harsh detergents and heat can damage them.
• For freezer bowls, ensure they’re completely dry before placing them back in the freezer to avoid ice build-up.

3. Clean the Machine Base (Compressor Models)

• Wipe the base and controls with a damp, soapy cloth if needed, and follow up with a dry cloth.
• Use a soft brush or cloth to clean around vents to prevent dust build-up, especially for compressor models.

4. Dry and Reassemble

• Let all parts air dry fully before storing or reassembling the machine.
• Make sure the freezer bowl is fully dry and frozen if you’ll be storing it in the freezer.

Following these steps after each use will keep your ice cream maker running smoothly and help prevent any lingering odours or residue from previous batches. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for any specific guidance!

Are ice cream makers child friendly?

Franzoso tells me: “Absolutely - many models are designed with safety in mind, making it a fun, hands-on experience for kids - with adult supervision, of course. It’s such a fun activity to do with children and can also help them learn how ice cream is made.” Here’s a quick look at how child-friendly different types of ice cream makers can be:

Compressor Ice Cream Makers: These are usually heavier and more complex, so they’re best for older children under adult supervision. While they’re generally safe, the compressor can be noisy, and the spinning parts should not be touched during operation. Children can help with measuring and adding ingredients before the machine starts, then scoop out the ice cream once it’s finished.

Freezer Bowl Ice Cream Makers: These are lighter and simpler, making them more accessible to younger kids. Since the bowls are pre-frozen, they just need help with pouring in ingredients and pushing buttons. Supervision is important, though, as the bowl can be quite cold and sticky to touch.

Tips for safe use with children

• Pre-measure ingredients so kids can simply add them in.
• Remind kids not to touch spinning or moving parts during operation.
• Involve them in the mix-ins and add-ons once the ice cream is done, which they usually love.

With the right model and supervision, ice cream makers can be a great way to create hands-on family fun in the kitchen.