The Best Budget Ice Cream Maker Of April: Best Picks Of 2024
By, Sara RyanUpdated
Our Top Picks
1. Best Overall: Cuisinart ICE-21P1 1.5-Quart Frozen Yogurt, Ice Cream and Sorbet Maker
The Cuisinart ICE-21P1 is perfect for making delicious, healthy frozen desserts. This machine offers a double-insulated freezer bowl to keep your ingredients cold without the need for ice. The large spout on the lid makes adding ingredients easy and mess-free with no drips or spills. Read Review
2. Best For The Price: Hamilton Beach 68330N Automatic Ice Cream Maker, 4 Quart, White
The Hamilton Beach 68330N is the perfect kitchen appliance for making homemade ice cream and desserts in your own home. Whether you're looking for a way to make a healthy dessert, or simply want to enjoy some homemade soft serve ice cream, this machine's versatility is sure to impress. Read Review
3. Best Compact: Ninja NC301 CREAMi Ice Cream Maker, Compact Size, Perfect for Kids, Silver
With the Ninja NC301 Cream Ice Cream Maker, you can enjoy a wide array of frozen treats without the mess and fuss. The Ninja CREAMi maker is easy to use, just pour in your ingredients and hit the switch, then sit back and let it do all the work. Easily make delicious treats like decadent gelato, lite ice cream, and much more. Perfect for kids too! Read Review
4. Best Easy To Use: Cuisinart ICE-RFB 1-1/2-Quart Additional Freezer Bowl, Ice Cream Maker
The Cuisinart ICE-RFB is an affordable way to make ice cream. This self-cooling feature eliminates the need for salt or ice. Just freeze the bowl and put it in your freezer overnight. The next day, pour in your ingredients, turn on the machine and enjoy your freshly made ice cream. Read Review
For those of us who live in warmer climates, ice cream is a staple of summer. After all, what better way to cool down on a hot summer day than with some freshly-made vanilla ice cream? Making homemade ice cream is also a great way to cut back on the amount of sugar you eat. With just a few simple ingredients, you can make your own version that’s rich in flavor and low in sugar.
However, making ice cream at home isn’t always easy. The process requires constant attention and even then it is not guaranteed to be successful every time. That is why we have created this list of the best budget ice cream makers that will give you excellent results without breaking the bank. These ice cream makers are relatively but still produce delicious results that are well worth the money spent.
We think Cuisinart ICE-21P1 1.5-Quart Frozen Yogurt, Ice Cream and Sorbet Maker is the best of the best among the top models. If you were dissatisfied with the preceding item, you have the option of selecting Hamilton Beach 68330N Automatic Ice Cream Maker, 4 Quart, White as an alternative. You may relax knowing that its quality is also good per what we researched.
RELATED: What is the best way to choose a best commercial soft serve ice cream machine in a 2024? We've discovered a few good choices for your needs that are simple to use. Let's take a look right now!
Our Top Picks
- LIMITED 3-YEAR WARRANTY: Refer to user manual for troubleshooting steps and questions surrounding warranty policies – this product is BPA free
- EASY TO USE: Easy lock transparent lid with large spout makes adding ingredients simple and mess free
- CAPACITY: Makes up to 1-½-quarts of your favorite ice cream or frozen yogurt
- COOL FEATURE: Double-insulated freezer bowl eliminates the need for ice
- SUPERIOR FUNCTION: The new patent-pending mixing paddle makes frozen treats in 20 minutes or less
- 4 quart capacity - The perfect size for families and special occasions
- Easy-lock lid - Easily fits on top and locks in place with a quick turn
- Delicious versatility - Make ice cream, frozen yogurt, custard, sorbet, gelato and sherbet all with one ice cream machine
- Over 20 recipes included - Try the recipes inside or create your own unique taste by mixing in candy, cookies, or fresh fruit
- Ideal for anyone looking for a soft serve ice cream maker or a keto ice cream maker
- Fully automatic - no stirring needed. Just add ingredients, ice & rock salt – it does all the work, then stops when ready
- COMPACT FOR YOUR COUNTERTOP: The CREAMi is compact in size allowing for seamless storage and fitting easily on your countertop.
- 7 VERSATILE PROGRAMS: (7) one-touch programs allow for the perfect combination of speed, pressure, and time to completely shave through your frozen pint. Choose between Ice Cream, Sorbet, Gelato, Milkshake, Smoothie Bowl, Lite Ice Cream, and Mix-in.
- NINJA CREAMI: With the Ninja CREAMi, you can transform everyday ingredients into ice cream, gelato, smoothie bowls, milkshakes, and more.
- MIX-INS: Customize your flavor and texture by mixing in your favorite chocolate, nuts, candy, fruit, and more to personalize any CREAMi treat.
- DISHWASHER SAFE: Containers, lids, and paddle are top-rack dishwasher safe.
- FROM HEALTHY TO INDULGENT: Easily enjoy a wide array of frozen treats like decadent gelato, lite ice cream, dairy-free, gluten-free and much more. The Ninja CREAMi makes delicious treats that fit your lifestyle.
- RE-SPIN FUNCTIONALITY: Select the Re-spin function if, after processing, you want your processed treat softer and creamier.
- WHAT'S INCLUDED: Motor Base with Dual-Drive Motors, Creamerizer Paddle, (2) 16 oz. CREAMi Pints with storage lids, Outer bowl and lid to house pint while processing, Recipe inspiration guide with 30 recipes
- FUN FOR ALL AGES: Easy-to-use functionality allows for the whole family to enjoy making frozen treats together.
- CREAMIFY TECHNOLOGY: Unlike traditional ice cream makers, Ninja’s innovative Creamerizer System finely shaves and churns ice particles into creamy frozen treats in minutes.
- 1-1/2-quart bowl
- Serves as alternative bowl for the Cuisinart ice cream maker
- Hand washable
- Self-cooling feature eliminates need for salt or ice
Best Energy Efficient
Whynter ICM-200LS Automatic Ice Cream Maker 2 Quart Capacity Stainless Steel
- BPA-free aluminum removable mixing bowl and churn blade for easy storage and effortless cleaning
- Award Winning: Best ice cream maker Rachael Ray Every day magazine and Yourbestdigs.; Self-contained frozen dessert maker that does not require pre-freezing; makes ice cream, frozen yogurt, sorbet.
- Stainless steel housing; Reliable built-in audible timer
- 2.1 quart (2 liter) capacity; -0.4ºF to -31ºF Cooling temperature
- LCD timer control; Motor Protection Function that shuts off to prevent damage if the mixture freezes solid; 16.75″W x 11.25″D x 10.25″H
- SUPERIOR FUNCTIONALITY: This brushed stainless steel fully automatic heavy-duty motor makes frozen desserts or drinks in as little as 20 minutes
- MUST-HAVE FEATURES: Large ingredient spout for easily adding favorite mix-ins including a retractable cord storage that keeps countertops clutter free
- INCLUDED: Comes with replacement lid, a double insulated freezer bowl that holds up to 2 quarts of frozen dessert, paddle, instructions and a recipe book
- NOTES TO CONSUMER: Make sure your freezer is set to 0-degrees F to ensure proper freezing of all foods and consult the user manual below for how to use the product
- LIMITED 3-YEAR WARRANTY: Refer to user manual for troubleshooting steps and questions surrounding warranty policies – this product is BPA free
- QUICK AND EASY TO USE: The ice cream and dessert maker is simple to use. Simply add the ingredient mixture into the machine, use the automatic motor or manual hand-crank and you'll have a tasty dessert in a short time just like the old-fashioned way.
- WHISPER QUIET OPERATION: The electric motor conveniently locks onto the bucket, making sure all parts are interlocked for safe and quiet operation.
- 1-YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY and US-BASED Customer Support Team lets you buy with confidence.
- ETL APPROVED 50-watt/120V for home kitchen use. Includes Electric Motor, Wooden bucket with handle, Stabilizing Ring, Freezing canister with indent, canister lid and cap, stirrer, dasher paddle and bonus die-cast hand crank.
- EASY 3 STEP PROCESS: 1) Mix your favorite ingredients and place in canister, 2) assemble the unit and add ice plus rock salt, 3) plug in and turn On.
- RECIPES - Use your own recipes, or follow the recipes included in the manual to get started making delicious and creamy ice cream without unnecessary additives and preservatives of store-bought ice cream.
- CLEANUP IS EASY: The aluminum canister allows for easy wiping away of messes, cleanup afterwards is a cinch. Easily store leftover ice cream in your freezer, plus included is a see-thru lid that fits right on top of the ice cream canister. Dishwasher safe canister and lid.
- 6-QUART CAPACITY: Freeze up to 6 Quarts of cold and creamy ice cream, gelato, frozen yogurt or sorbet. Perfect for party time, snack time, barbeques, picnics and big events - enough to feed everyone.
- 1.6 quart (1.5 liter); -0.4ºF to -31ºF Cooling temperature
- BPA-free aluminum removable mixing bowl and churn blade for easy storage and effortless cleaning
- Award Winning: Best self-freezing ice cream maker by WireCutter and Real Simple; Self-contained frozen dessert maker that does not require pre-freezing; makes ice cream, frozen yogurt, sorbet.
- LCD timer control; Motor Protection Function that shuts off to prevent damage if the mixture freezes solid
- Stainless steel housing; Reliable built-in audible timer
- 🍨【Compressor & Motor Self-Protection】3-min waiting time protects the compressor when switching the operation modes. And you can also unplug the power to restart the machine without waiting. Besides, the motor protection device will shut off automatically ensuring the lasting usage of the motor.
- 🍨【Keep Cool Function】To maintain fresh taste and texture of ice cream, the machine will automatically start every 10 minutes and cool for 10 minutes if the ice cream is not eaten or stored in time (cooling time: 1 hour). When it is finished, the machine will shut off automatically after 10 short beeps.
- 🍨【3 In 1 Ice Cream Maker】There are 3 operation modes to satisfy your needs of making different types of desserts. You can adjust the control knob for mixing only, cooling only and ice cream mode (maximum 40 minutes) as needed. The easy-to-use control panel facilitates homemade dessert making.
- 🍨【DIY Ice Cream】This countertop ice cream maker allows you to make various delicious homemade desserts in minutes. You can create your own unique taste by controlling the intake of ingredients. Add all materials in the frozen bowl and choose one operation mode, waiting to enjoy.
- 🍨【Easy To Clean】Since smooth ABS surface, the daily maintenance is easy to finish with a wet towel. In addition, all non-electric parts are detachable for safe cleaning under water, such as transparent lid, mixing paddles and 1.1 quart freezer bowl. And these parts are easy to assemble for reuse.
- Customized for Smooth & Soft Gelato: Churned at a much slower rate and incorporates very little air, it is not easy to produce ice crystals while eccentric stirring. You can see the gelato flows in the liner, which makes it dense enough and lends to a silkier, smoother and softer texture whereas the taste is much richer because of lower percentage of fat content.
- Fully Automatic, Simple Operation: The Haimmy gelato machine has 2 modes (Soft & Hard available), to satisfy your needs of making different types of desserts that you can fully customize to taste in 90 minutes. Making any family favorite couldn't be simpler thanks to the one-button operation and auto shut off.
- 4 Hours Keep Cool Function: To maintain fresh taste and texture of ice cream, the electric ice cream maker would automatically keep your ice cream or gelato cool after the timer has gone off, if the ice cream is not eaten or stored in time (Max Lasting time: 4 hour).
- Perfect 2 Servings Size: This 700ml (1.5pint) countertop ice cream maker makes 2 servings of ice cream at a time, about 3 cups yogurt or 6 gelato balls or 4 ice cream waffles etc. Enjoy your favorite frozen dessert with your kids or lover, or provide just the perfect amount of servings for friends(if you combine with other desserts)
- No Pre-Freezing Required: Utilizes an advanced built-in Electric Self-Freezing ice cream system to achieve fast freezing effect and replace the regular tub freezing ice cream machines. Have ice cream 1.5 hours later without 24 to 48 hours freezing ice cream tube.
- Warm Tips to Use the Ice Cream Maker: Place assembled top cover onto the ice cream maker by ensuring the metal pins underneath the mixing motor contact with the magnetic switches on the main body of the ice cream maker. Do not exceed the MAX fill line marking within the Inner Bowl when using ingredients that expand. This will allow the volume to increase during freezing to fit the bowl’s maximum capacity.
What to Look For in a best budget ice cream maker?
Looking for the best budget ice cream maker requires consideration of many criteria. Product learning varies in type, feature, and customer ranking. Overall, it comes with several difficulties in buying. So, we are available to support you occasionally.
It is beneficial for you to have a closer look at the things below to evaluate and then choose which one is suitable:
Batch Size
These ice cream maker models are most well-known for making between one and two quarts of icecream, that's roughly 4 to 8 cups. However, some models make only one serving. Other models make six quarts.
For large parties or families, it is worth investing in a high-capacity machine. However, machines with larger capacities are not as efficient when making small amounts of ice cream. Machines that make smaller batches are ideal for those who want to explore new recipes frequently.
Ability To Make Multiple Batches
You can theoretically make unlimited batches of icecream using some ice-cream machines. But, the heat from churning hard cream can damage less-powerful models. An affordable commercial model is better than one designed for light-duty domestic use if you want to make large amounts of ice-cream at regular events.
Power Source
Hand-operated machines take more effort (and more muscle), as churning icecream can take up to 20 minutes. The job gets more challenging once the icecream hardens. Manual ice cream machines don't require electricity so they can be taken along with you to camping and backyard parties. Manual models require you to only stir the ingredients into a frozen bowl.
Settings And Options
Machine Size
The size of Ice Cream Makers varies from single-serve, small-sized models with very little counter space to larger, more powerful models.
Freezing Style
FAQs
How Long Does An Ice Cream Maker Need To Freeze?
The temperature and type of ice cream maker used will also affect this. Cuisinart's top-rated ice cream machine, the ICE-21, suggests a 16-24 hour freezing time at 0degF (-18degC). It's important to prepare accordingly when making ice cream. But it's well worth the effort to ensure the best texture and richness of your finished product.
How Does Homemade Ice Cream Compare To Store Bought?
This is a fact that homemade ice cream tastes fresher and better than any store-bought. You won't find any artificial ingredients or strange flavors in homemade ice creams. Making your own ice cream allows you to make unique flavors and can be made in a way that isn't available in grocery stores.
Can You Make Ice Cream Without A Machine?
These no-churn icecream recipes don't need an ice cream machine. However, don't worry if your texture doesn't match. Air is incorporated in the cream base to create a smooth and creamy consistency. While you could partially do this using a mixer attachment, it's hard to achieve the same results with an ice cream maker that has been properly designed and chilled.
How Do You Clean An Ice Cream Maker?
For best cleaning practices, make sure to read the instructions manual prior to using your ice-cream maker. Many ice cream machines aren't dishwasher-safe. You will have to wash the lids, bowls, and paddles in warm water, using mild soapy detergent. You cannot place freezer bowls in the dishwasher as high temperatures could cause the seal to crack and allow the liquid to escape.
To reassemble and use an ice cream maker, it is important to dry all components. Before placing in the freezer, bowls for ice cream makers must be thoroughly dried. Ice can build up on the bowl's walls and cause problems with the ice cream making.
Is Ice Cream Expensive To Make?
This depends on what quality ingredients you choose. It doesn't matter what ice-cream maker you have, the basic ingredients for making your own ice-cream are cream and milk. Eggs, cream, sugar, and cream. You might pay more for organic, grass-fed cream or milk in the dairy aisle. While eggs can be affordable, the cost of eggs from pastured poultry will increase. Price varies for different flavors and mixes-ins. Even though they are not too expensive, salt-and ice-style ice cream makers require that you have salt and ice.
Can Ice Cream Makers Be Used To Make Gelato And Frozen Yogurt?
Yes! It is possible to use an ice-cream maker to make gelato or ice cream. The best ice cream makers have settings that allow you to adjust the freezing time and speed of your churning. While these options are available only on electric models, they may not be available for all electric icecream machines. You should also read what dessert settings can be found to confirm that your ice cream maker has the right capabilities.
The list of best budget ice cream maker is updated frequently to approach the latest information. Please check our website to get any changes and additions usually.
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