Turn your kitchen into a personal ice cream parlor. Imagine whipping up a batch of rich chocolate gelato or tangy strawberry sorbet on a whim. With cuisinart ice cream makers, that dream is totally achievable. They take the guesswork out of frozen desserts, letting you get creative with flavors you just can’t find in stores.
No more settling for supermarket pints. You control the ingredients, meaning you can make it as decadent or as healthy as you like. Whether your a classic vanilla fan or an adventurous mix-in maestro, the process is surprisingly simple and incredibly rewarding. Let’s see how these machines stack up.
Product Comparison Table: 10 Best Cuisinart Ice Cream Makers
| Image | Why We Like This Product | Editor’s Rating | |
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Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine, 1.5 Quart Double Insulated…
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9.7 |
Read Review |
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Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine, 1.5 Quart Double Insulated…
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9.5 |
Read Review |
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Cuisinart Automatic Frozen Yogurt-Ice Cream & Sorbet Maker (Pink)
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9.3 |
Read Review |
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Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl Ice Cream Maker, Soft…
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9.1 |
Read Review |
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Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine, 2-Quart Ice Cream, Sorbet…
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8.9 |
Read Review |
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Cuisinart FastFreeze 5-in-1 Ice Cream, Sorbet, Milkshakes, Slushies and…
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8.8 |
Read Review |
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Cuisinart FastFreeze Ice Cream Maker Dessert Cups, Grey, ICE-FD10EC2
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8.6 |
Read Review |
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Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine, 2-Quart Stainless Steel Frozen…
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8.4 |
Read Review |
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Cuisinart 1-pt Wonder Ice Cream Maker
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8.2 |
Read Review |
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Cuisinart Soft Serve Ice Cream Machine- Mix It In…
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8.0 |
Read Review |
Quick Review For Top 10 Cuisinart Ice Cream Makers
Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine, 1.5 Quart Double Insulated Machine, Sorbet and Frozen Yogurt Maker, Ready in 20 Minutes, ICE-21P1, White
The Cuisinart ICE-21P1 Ice Cream Maker is a straightfoward appliance designed to bring homemade frozen desserts into your kitchen without complication. Its core promise is speed and simplicity, letting you create a 1.5 quart batch of ice cream, sorbet, or frozen yogurt in about 20 minutes from start to finish. This capacity is ideal for a family dessert or having friends over, giving you enough to share without being overwhelming.
What really sets this machine apart is it’s double-insulated freezer bowl. You simply store the bowl in your freezer ahead of time—no rock salt or ice cubes needed. The frozen bowl acts as the chilling element, so when you’re ready to make ice cream, you just take it out, assemble the machine, and pour in your ingredients. The mixing paddle, which does all the hard work, is designed to incorporate air and prevent icy crystals, aiming for a smoother texture in your final treat.
Using it is intentionally simple. The transparent lid has an easy-lock mechanism to secure it during operation, and a large spout makes adding mix-ins like chocolate chips or fruit a clean process. You can watch the mixture thicken without having to open the lid, which helps maintain the cold temperature. Because the motor is separate from the chilling bowl, cleanup is relatively easy; the bowl, lid, and paddle are all dishwasher safe, which is a practical bonus after enjoying your dessert.
Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine, 1.5 Quart Double Insulated Machine, Sorbet and Frozen Yogurt Maker, Ready in 20 Minutes, ICE-21RP1, Red
The Cuisinart ICE-21RP1 Ice Cream Maker is a straightforward appliance designed to bring homemade frozen treats into your kitchen without the fuss. It’s built around a simple, effective concept: a double-insulated freezer bowl that you store in your freezer until your ready to use it. This core feature means there’s no need to buy or manage ice or rock salt.
When that bowl is fully chilled, you simply assemble the machine, pour in your ingredients, and let it run.
What you get is a machine that can produce up to 1.5 quarts of ice cream, sorbet, or frozen yogurt. That’s a perfect size for a family dessert or for trying out a few different flavors over the week. The mixing paddle inside is engineered to churn efficiently, and Cuisinart states it can have your treat ready in about 20 minutes or less.
In practice, the time can vary a bit based on your recipe and how cold your freezer bowl is, but it’s generally a quick process.
Using it is intentionally simple. The transparent lid has an easy-lock mechanism to secure it during operation, and it features a large spout. This spout is a practical detail—it lets you add in those extra chocolate chips or fruit chunks late in the cycle without having to stop the machine or risk a mess.
Cuisinart Automatic Frozen Yogurt-Ice Cream & Sorbet Maker (Pink)
The Cuisinart Automatic Frozen Yogurt-Ice Cream & Sorbet Maker in Pink is a dedicated appliance for making frozen desserts at home. It’s designed to be straightforward and efficient, giving you control over what goes into your treats. The machine operates with a double-insulated freezer bowl that you simply store in your freezer until your ready to use it.
This means there’s no need to deal with messy ice or rock salt, just take the bowl from your freezer, place it in the unit, and your ready to begin.
A key feature is the new patent-pending mixing paddle. Cuisinart designed this component to churn mixtures effectively, aiming to have a finished frozen dessert in about 20 minutes or less.
The large capacity bowl lets you make up to one and a half quarts at a time, which is plenty for sharing with family or having leftovers for later in the week. The easy-lock lid secures firmly and has a large spout built right in. This allows you to pour in your liquid base or add mix-ins like chocolate chips or fruit partway through the process without having to stop the machine or create a mess.
This particular pink model carries an added significance.
Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl Ice Cream Maker, Soft Serve Desserts, Sorbet, Milkshakes, Frozen Yogurt and More, 13-in-1 Programs, Includes Handle and Two 16 oz 2-in-1 Pints, NC701
The Ninja CREAMi NC701 is a versatile countertop appliance designed to give you complete control over your frozen desserts. It moves far beyond basic ice cream, offering 13 one-touch programs to create a wide variety of textures and styles right in your kitchen. Whether you prefer a classic scooped pint or a swirled soft-serve cone, this machine provides the flexibility to choose.
Its core function is simple: you freeze your custom mixture in the included 2-in-1 pints.
Then, you place the pint into the motor base, select a program, and let the Creamify Technology work. This system processes at high speeds to break down ice crystals, resulting in remarkably smooth and creamy textures, whether its for a dense scoop or a light soft serve.
The machine includes six dedicated soft serve programs, like Frozen Custard and Swirled Frozen Yogurt, that deliver that classic creamy swirl straight from the dispensing lid.
A major advantage of the CREAMi is customization. You control every ingredient that goes in. This makes it straightforward to accommodate dietary preferences or goals, allowing for low-sugar, dairy-free, high-protein, or vegan creations.
Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine, 2-Quart Ice Cream, Sorbet and Frozen Yogurt Machine, Fully Automatic Double-Insulated Freezer Bowl Makes Frozen Desserts in Under 30 Minutes, ICE30BCP1, Silver
The Cuisinart ICE30BCP1 Ice Cream Maker is a fully automatic 2-quart machine designed for making a variety of frozen desserts at home. It simplifies the process of creating ice cream, sorbet, and frozen yogurt, giving you control over ingredients and flavors. The core of it’s functionality is the double-insulated freezer bowl, which eliminates the need for ice or rock salt.
You simply store the bowl in your freezer until its ready, then use it to freeze your dessert mixture directly in the machine. This model is built for efficiency. Its heavy-duty motor works with the pre-frozen bowl to churn desserts in under 30 minutes, making the process surprisingly quick. The large, brushed stainless steel construction not only looks good on your counter but is built to last.
A convenient feature is the large ingredient spout on the lid, which allows you to add chips, fruit, or other mix-ins during the final stages of churning for perfect distribution. When your done, the retractable cord helps keep your kitchen tidy. You get everything needed to start right out of the box.
Cuisinart FastFreeze 5-in-1 Ice Cream, Sorbet, Milkshakes, Slushies and Mix-In Frozen Dessert Maker, Compact Machine, Easy to Use, Includes 3 Mixing Cups with Lids, ICE-FD10
The Cuisinart FastFreeze 5-in-1 Ice Cream, Sorbet, Milkshakes, Slushies and Mix-In Frozen Dessert Maker (ICE-FD10) is a compact machine designed for making small-batch frozen treats right in your own kitchen. It’s core idea is simplicity and speed, letting you create a half-pint of your favorite dessert in just minutes. The key is its pre-frozen base, which you store in your freezer, so there’s no need for ice or rock salt. When a treat is wanted, you’re ready to go.
This unit truly is a 5-in-1 frozen dessert maker. It has five preset programs dedicated to specific styles: ice cream, milkshakes, slushies, sorbet, and mix-ins. You just twist the top dial to choose what you want to make. The process is straightforward: add your ingredients into one of the included mixing cups, attach it to the machine, and push down the freeze wand. The machine takes over from there, churning and freezing your creation.
It’s a very hands-off approach compared to traditional methods. For anyone mindful of what they eat, this machine offers great control. You can make non-dairy ice cream using almond or oat milk, create protein-packed shakes after a workout, or craft fresh fruit sorbets with no added sugar if you prefer. You know exactly what’s going into your dessert, which is a significant advantage over store-bought options. The ingredients list starts and ends with you.
Cuisinart FastFreeze Ice Cream Maker Dessert Cups, Grey, ICE-FD10EC2
The Cuisinart FastFreeze Ice Cream Maker Dessert Cups, Grey, ICE-FD10EC2 are the perfect little addition if you already own the matching machine. These cups are specifically designed for the Cuisinart FastFreeze 5-in-1 Ice Cream Maker (model ICE-FD10), so you know they’ll fit and work just right. It’s a simple way to expand your frozen dessert toolkit without any guesswork.
This set includes two half-pint dessert cups, each with its own lid. That size is really handy.
It’s perfect for making individual servings of your frozen creations. You can make one flavor for yourself and another for a friend, or try two different recipes at once. Having the lids is a big plus too. They keep everything fresh and clean if you want to pop your dessert directly into the freezer to harden up a bit more. No need to transfer it to another container, which saves you time and lessens the mess.
Speaking of convenience, these cups are completely dishwasher safe.
After you’ve enjoyed your treat, just toss the cups and lids into the top rack of your dishwasher for easy cleanup. It makes the whole process from making to cleaning up super straightforward. You won’t have to hand-wash any tricky parts, which means you’ll probably use them more often. That’s a win for anyone who values simplicity.
Think about how you use your ice cream maker.
Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine, 2-Quart Stainless Steel Frozen Yogurt, Gelato, Sorbet, Ready in 20 Minutes, LCD Screen and Timer, ICE-70P1
The Cuisinart ICE-70P1 Ice Cream Maker is a 2-quart stainless steel machine designed to bring the creamery home. It lets you create a wide variety of frozen desserts, from classic ice cream and tangy frozen yogurt to dense gelato and refreshing sorbet. The entire process, from mixing to freezing, happens right in the unit, and it can have a batch ready in about 20 minutes. This means you can decide to make dessert and be enjoying it shortly after dinner without any advance planning.
With its 2-quart capacity, this machine is perfect for families or for entertaining. It makes enough for several servings, so everyone can have their fill or you can try a couple of different flavors. The large ingredient spout in the lid is a really helpful feature, allowing you to add mix-ins like chocolate chips or fruit after the base has begun to thicken. It even has an integrated measuring cup right on the lid for convenience, helping to keep things tidy.
You’ll find plenty of inspiration from the included online recipes to get you started. Operating the Cuisinart is straightforward, thanks to its clear LCD screen and intuitive controls. You can select from three settings, which adjust the mixing speed to match the type of dessert your making. The countdown timer is a great aid, letting you know exactly when your treat is finished, and the auto shutoff provides peace of mind.
Cuisinart 1-pt Wonder Ice Cream Maker
The Cuisinart 1-pt Wonder Ice Cream Maker is designed for anyone who loves the idea of fresh, homemade ice cream but doesn’t want to deal with a large machine or big batches. This compact unit makes a single serving, about one pint, which is perfect for trying new flavors or satisfying a personal treat without leftovers.
Its small footprint means it fits easily on your countertop and stores without hassle in a cabinet. The whole process is suprisingly straightforward.
You simply freeze the bowl overnight, pour in your ice cream mixture the next day, and turn it on. In 25 minutes or less, you’ll have soft-serve consistency ice cream ready to eat immediately or transfer to the freezer to firm up.
One of the standout features is how easy this machine is to clean. The motor unit detaches completely from the freezing bowl. The lid and the mixing paddle, which does all the churning, are both dishwasher safe.
This makes the whole cleanup process quick, so you can spend more time enjoying your creation rather than scrubbing parts. After your done, everything snaps back together neatly for storage.
Adding your ingredients is mess-free thanks to the large built-in funnel on the lid. You can pour your base liquid in smoothly, and it’s also the perfect spot to add mix-ins like chocolate chips, crushed cookies, or fruit during the last few minutes of churning.
Cuisinart Soft Serve Ice Cream Machine- Mix It In Ice Cream Maker for Frozen Yogurt, Sorbet, Gelato, Drinks 1.5 Quart, White, ICE-48
The Cuisinart Soft Serve Ice Cream Machine ICE-48 is a countertop appliance designed to bring the fun of a soft-serve shop right into your kitchen. This 1.5-quart machine is fully automatic, meaning you just prepare your base, turn it on, and it handles the freezing and churning for you. It uses a double-insulated freezer bowl that you store in your freezer overnight—no need for messy ice or rock salt.
In about 20 minutes, you’ll have fresh, creamy soft-serve, frozen yogurt, sorbet, or even gelato ready to enjoy. What really sets this model apart is it’s built-in mix-in system. It comes with three clear condiment containers and a special 4 oz. Keep Warm Cup that sits on a heating plate. This let’s you add your favorite toppings directly into the ice cream as it swirls out. You can fill the containers with sprinkles, chopped nuts, or mini chocolate chips.
Meanwhile, the warm cup is perfect for keeping fudge, caramel, or fruit sauces at the ideal pouring consistency. You get that classic soft-serve swirl with bits of your favorite treats folded right in. Operation is straightforward. There’s a simple ON/OFF power dial. When your dessert is ready, you pull one, two, or three levers to release your chosen mix-ins, then pull down the main handle to dispense directly into a cone or bowl.
Cuisinart Ice Cream Makers Buying Guide
Cuisinart ice cream makers are known for their consistent performance. They make it simple to create your favorite frozen treats at home. But with a few different models available, how do you pick the right one for your kitchen? This guide will help you compare the key factors so you can choose with confidence.
Freezer Bowl vs. Compressor Models
This is the biggest decision. Most Cuisinart models use a freezer bowl. You freeze the bowl solid for 12+ hours, then use it to churn. It’s affordable and quiet, but requires planning. Their compressor models have a built-in freezing unit. Just pour in your mix and press start—no pre-freezing needed. It’s more expensive, but offers ultimate convenience for spontaneous ice cream nights.
Capacity and Batch Size
Think about how much you typically make. A 1.5-quart bowl is perfect for a small family, yielding about 6 servings. If you often entertain or have a larger household, a 2-quart model might be better. Remember, most recipes expand a bit during churning, so don’t fill the bowl completely to the brim for best results.
Ease of Cleaning and Storage
Nobody wants a difficult cleanup. Luckily, most parts on these machines are dishwasher safe, which is a huge time-saver. For the freezer bowl models, consider where you’ll store that bulky bowl in your freezer. If space is tight, a compressor model that sits on your counter might actually be more practical in the long run. It’s all about your kitchens workflow.
Additional Features and Attachments
Some models come with extra tools. A mixing paddle that also aerates is great for a lighter texture. If you love adding in cookies, nuts, or fruit, look for a machine with a add-in chute or opening so you can mix them in at the perfect moment. These small features can really improve your homemade ice cream experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cuisinart Ice Cream Makers
What’s teh main difference between the freezer bowl and compressor models?
The freezer bowl models have a bowl you freeze overnight. They’re more affordable but you need to plan ahead. Compressor models have a built-in freezer unit. You can make batch after batch without waiting. They’re more expensive but offer more convenience.
How long does it take to make ice cream?
It usually takes about 20 to 40 minutes of churning time. Freezer bowl models need the bowl completely frozen solid first, which takes several hours. The whole process, from mixing to serving, can take a few hours depending on your recipe and model.
Can I make other frozen treats besides ice cream?
Absolutely! You can make sorbet, frozen yogurt, gelato, and even slushies. Many recipes are available online. Just ensure your mixture is cold before you start churning for the best results.
Are they difficult to clean?
Not at all. Most parts, like the mixing paddle and bowl, are dishwasher safe. The main unit itself just needs a wipe with a damp cloth. It’s one of the easier kitchen appliances to maintain, honestly.
Why is my ice cream too soft?
This is common. It often means the bowl wasn’t frozen long enough, or your mixture wasn’t cold enough before churning. Also, homemade ice cream is usually softer right from the machine. For a firmer texture, place it in the freezer for a few hours after churning to “ripen.”
Do I need a special recipe?
You should use recipes designed for ice cream makers. They have the right balance of fat and sugar to freeze properly. Cuisinart usually includes a recipe booklet to get you started. There’s tons of great options out there once you get the hang of it.
How much ice cream do they make?
Most home models make between 1.5 and 2 quarts per batch. That’s perfect for a family or small gathering. Be sure not to overfill the bowl, as the mixture needs room to expand as it freezes.
Before You Decide
Turn simple ingredients into your favorite frozen dessert. It’s a fun and rewarding process. You get to control exactly what goes in, from classic vanilla to fresh fruit sorbets. The result is a treat made just for you and your family. It’s perfect for a weekend project or a special occasion.
For a reliable and straightforward experience, many home cooks choose a Cuisinart ice cream maker. These machines are known for their ease of use and consistent results. They help you make great ice cream without a lot of fuss. Consider the size you need and how often you’ll use it. With a little planning, you’ll be ready to enjoy homemade frozen desserts all season long.