It may sound like a big undertaking, but ice cream is actually one of the easiest desserts to whip up from scratch. But with so many different types of ice cream makers out there, it can be challenging to find the right one for your household. Every ice cream gadget works differently, which means the final frozen product from each appliance will vary. Ahead, learn more about some of the most common types of ice cream makers.
Hand-Crank Ice Cream Makers
Did you know it’s possible to make ice cream without even putting it in the freezer? People have been using hand-crank machines for decades, and it’s still the preferred option for some. Hand-crank machines typically consist of a bucket and a crank. There’s a mixing chamber on the inside of the bucket that holds ice and salt to help freeze the ingredients. Each batch takes about 20 to 25 minutes to make. If you want thinner ice cream, crank very quickly; if you prefer thicker frozen desserts, slow it down. Not only are hand-crank machines nostalgic, but they’re also affordable and don’t require electricity, so you can make ice cream anywhere, anytime.
Frozen-Bowl Ice Cream Makers
Another popular method of making ice cream is with a freezer bowl. This type of machine works exactly as its name suggests: It’s a bowl that you freeze for six hours before use. Freezer bowls usually contain a special gel that gets exceedingly cold and allows your ingredients to freeze while being mixed together. This is an affordable option for making ice cream at home, but since it requires a little bit of prep time, you won’t be able to just make ice cream on a whim.
Compressor Ice Cream Makers
If you’re serious about making ice cream, you may consider investing in a compressor machine, one of the fancier options available. All you have to do is pour your mixture into the machine, press a button, and wait until your ice cream is ready. Compressor machines are great for large groups or parties because you can make batch after batch without too much of a wait time. Plus, most models have various functions to make sorbet, frozen yogurt, and gelato, in addition to ice cream. Before making a final decision, it’s a good idea to consider how much space you have to store an ice cream maker, whether you’ll need something dishwasher-safe, and if you’ll use it to make other frozen treats aside from just ice cream. Lastly, think about how much you want to invest in your purchase. There’s something for every price range, so keep scrolling to see 11 of the best ice cream makers for you and your family. Price at time of publish: $475 Price at time of publish: $70 Price at time of publish: $404 Price at time of publish: $100 Price at time of publish: $28 Price at time of publish: $35 Price at time of publish: $347 Price at time of publish: $113 Price at time of publish: $288 Price at time of publish: $55 Price at time of publish: $50
