Who doesn’t love a bowl of fresh, creamy ice cream? Making your own ice cream at home allows you to create custom flavors, adjust sweetness, and experiment with ingredients—all while avoiding preservatives and additives. Whether you’re a casual ice cream lover or a dessert enthusiast, investing in a high-quality ice cream maker is a must.
Here, we’ve rounded up the best ice cream makers of 2024, ranging from feature-packed models to top-of-the-line machines for serious dessert aficionados.
Our Top Picks:
Lello 4080 Musso Lussino
If you’re searching for the ultimate luxury in ice cream making, the Lello 4080 Musso Lussino is the perfect choice. This high-end machine boasts a fully automatic design, making it incredibly easy to use. Its built-in compressor means you don’t have to pre-freeze a bowl, which saves time and effort. The stainless steel finish adds to its durability and sleek appearance.
Key Features:
- Fully automatic with a self-contained freezing unit
- 1.5-quart capacity
- Takes about 30 minutes to make ice cream
- Easy-to-clean stainless steel design
With its powerful performance, you can create batch after batch of smooth, creamy ice cream. However, its premium price tag makes it a better option for those who are serious about homemade ice cream.
Ninja Creami Deluxe 11-in-1 Ice Cream Maker
If you love versatility, the Ninja Creami Deluxe 11-in-1 offers a wide range of functions beyond just ice cream. You can make sorbet, gelato, milkshakes, and even smoothie bowls with this multi-functional device. It’s the ideal pick for those who like experimenting with different frozen treats.
Key Features:
- 11 different preset programs for various desserts
- Two containers included for multi-batch making
- Compact and easy-to-store design
- Easy-to-use controls with multiple texture options
The Ninja Creami Deluxe is great for families or anyone who wants to switch up their dessert game, and its affordable price makes it a fantastic value for all the features it offers.
Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker
For novices and household use, the Cuisinart ICE-21P1 is a dependable and easy-to-use ice cream maker. Its automatic operation makes it simple to manufacture frozen yogurt, sorbet, or ice cream in about 20 minutes, and its double-insulated freezer bowl removes the need for ice. The straightforward design with an easy-lock lid keeps the process mess-free, and the 1.5-quart volume is perfect for small households. The texture is typically soft-serve unless you freeze it further, and the bowl must be pre-frozen for a few hours. All things considered, it’s a fantastic value choice for quick, homemade frozen treats.
Key Features:
- Fully automatic operation
- Makes ice cream, sorbet, and frozen yogurt in about 20 minutes
- 1.5-quart capacity for small batches
- Double-insulated freezer bowl (no ice needed)
- Easy-lock lid with large ingredient spout
- BPA-free construction with durable design
Whynter Automatic Compressor
The Whynter Automatic Compressor Ice Cream Maker offers a great balance between performance and affordability, making it one of the best choices for budget-conscious shoppers. This machine features a powerful compressor that ensures consistent freezing without the need for pre-freezing, allowing you to make multiple batches without delay.
Key Features:
- Built-in compressor freezer
- 2.1-quart capacity, ideal for larger families or parties
- Stainless steel exterior for durability
- Timer for precise control over churning
It’s slightly larger than other models but remains a great pick for those looking for consistent results without the need for too many bells and whistles. The price-to-performance ratio of the Whynter makes it one of the most reliable options on the market.