Are you craving for something cold and sweet to beat the Indian hot summer? Then it is best to try DIY ice cream making. With best ice cream makers, you can prepare homemade desserts that lets you modify the recipe according to your nutritional needs. More so if you’re looking to cut down your sugar intake.
Having your own ice cream maker allows you to:
- Control the ingredients as per your taste and need
- Avoid emulsifiers that are used in commercially produced ice cream.
Too much consumption of food additive such as emulsifiers may lead to obesity, type-2 diabetes, and cardiovascular and liver disease.
In this post, we prepared a buying guide and a list of the best ice cream makers that you can purchase online in India.
Suggested read: Best Yogurt Makers | Best Soup Makers
List of Best Ice Cream Makers In India
| ICE CREAM MAKERS | TYPE | CAPACITY | WARRANTY |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kitchenif – Best Pick | Canister type | 1.5 Liter | 1 Year |
| Cuisinart ICE-70 | Canister type | 2 Liter | 3 Years |
| Mr. Freeze EIM-700T | Canister type | 2 -3 cups | 1 Year |
| Sunbeam Polar | — | 2 cups | No |
| Hershey’s Dual | Canister type | 2 cups | 1 Year |
| Cuisinart ICE-21 | Canister type | 1.5 Liter | 3 Years |
| Hamilton Beach | Canister type | 1.5 Liter | 1 Year |
Review of Best Ice Cream Makers in India
Now let us take a deeper look into each of the best makers we listed along with pros and cons of their design features.
1. Kitchenif 1.5 Liter Ice Cream Maker
Kitchenif comes handy in a world of ice-cream makers where most of them are either expensive or requires manual churning. It is one of those brands which have popularized ice-cream makers in India and its mind-blowing performance has made it the topper on our list.
If you are a person who wants to learn how to make ice cream at home, this one should be your choice as it boasts a comparatively less cooling time and a safety lock. With its 1.5 L large bowl, it makes a whopping 6-7 scoops of ice-cream in one go within 30 minutes. The nice cube shaped design can fit into 80% of the double door refrigerators.
The 4 raised handles make it easy to carry and hold. It is easy to clean as well! Just press the lock key at the bottom of the upper lid, separate the motor and get it washed.
An elegant transparent lid with a safety lock feature ensures that the ice-cream mixture doesn’t spill out. A small spout on the front lid lets you add ingredients without opening the top cover each time. The electric ice-cream maker makes lesser noise compared to others; noise level is 70Db which is safe to your ears.
How to use?
- Plan the day before making ice-cream, take the insulated bowl and refrigerate it for about 12-18 hours.
- Place the frozen bowl inside quickly before it starts to defrost
- Put the mixing paddle on the freezer bowl.
- Switch on the Kitchenif Ice-cream maker.
- Start adding ingredients through the small opening on the lid, while the mixing paddle is rotating and the machine is on.
- Let the ice-cream maker run for good 20 to30 minutes
- Ice-cream will be ready on time depending on the volume of total ingredients and recipe
- If you like ice-cream in the soft serving stage, serve it immediately
- For chilled ice-cream, transfer it into another bowl with lid and freeze it for 2-3 hours
PROS (good things)
- Affordability
- Large bowl with 1.5 litres capacity
- Makes quick ice-cream in just 30 seconds
- Safety lock
- Spout opening for easy adding of ingredients
- Easy to clean detachable bowl
- 1 year of warranty
CONS (poor things)
- Not suitable for single door refrigerators
2. Cuisinart ICE-70 Electronic Ice-cream maker
Cuisinart ICE-70 Electronic Ice-Cream Maker is selected as second product in our list because of its large capacity bowl. The insulated bowl has capacity of about 2 liters measuring 19.7 cm diameter and 16.5 cm height. This makes it suitable for the entire single door as well as double door refrigerator.
It has 2 transparent plastic lids, one is big lid for complete ice cream maker bowl and other is for small opening that is present on the big lid. This opening is helpful to add mix-ins to the ice-cream in between the churning. The base of the machine is made up of strong and stainless steel, which holds the bowl properly.
High quality plastic made mixing paddles are sharp enough to scratch the ice-cream from edges while churning process. It also prevents the air from entering into the ice-cream mixture and avoids formation of ice.
Digital one touch pad allows you to preset the time and choose the dish you are preparing. Because, it has 4 one touch buttons indicating start/stop, gelato, ice-cream and sorbet. It also has automatic turn off feature that is helpful for everyone.
Four rubber grips present on the outer base of the machine firmly fixes it on the surface and doesn’t cause any disturbance during vibration.
How to use?
- As it a canister type ice cream maker you should freeze the bowl for about 20-24 hours. Then, fix it to the machine and pour all the ingredients.
- Now, you can place the dasher and close the lid. Here, you should preset the timer and afterwards switch on the machine.
- Once the ice cream is ready the machine shuts down automatically. So, you can transfer it into an airtight box and freeze it.
PROS (good things)
- It has digital panel which provides hassle free operation.
- Large capacity of the bowl
- Good quality mixing paddle
- Preset timer.
- You can prepare ice cream, gelato, sorbet and yogurt also.
- Small opening on the lid allows you to add mix-ins easily.
CONS (poor things)
- Bowl requires 20-24 hours to get frozen.
- Produces high noise.
- Little bit Expensive.
3. Mr. Freeze EIM-700T Maxi Matic 1.5 Pint Thermo-electric Ice Cream Maker
Next product from our list is Mr. Freeze Ice Cream Maker. This is the first compressor type ice-cream maker in our list. It has an environment friendly thermoelectric cooling system, which cools the ice-cream. The insulated bowl, which is attached to the base of the machine, has capacity of preparing 2-3 cups of ice cream.
Plastic paddles are made up of BPA free material which perfectly churns the ice-cream. It has 3 push buttons on the top side of the device indicating start/stop, hard and soft. This enables you to control the churning speed as per your need. Also, the device makes beeping sound when the dish is ready. This alerts you to turn it off though you are doing some other work.
High quality plastic transparent lid allows you to check the texture of the ice-cream. A silicon spatula is provided with this ice cream maker to take out the ice-cream easily and avoid the occurrence of scratches inside the bowl.
The one biggest drawback of this product is it is very small in size, which produces less amount of ice-cream.
How to use?
- Initially prepare the ice cream mixture and refrigerate it for 2-3 hours. Then, pour the mixture into the insulated bowl and close the lid.
- Now, press the button either hard or soft and later turn on the switch.
- Once the ice cream is ready the machine starts to make beeping sound. Then, you can switch off the machine.
PROS (good things)
- Environment friendly thermo-electric cooling system.
- Transparent lid.
- Low noise that is less than 60 dB.
- Silicon spatula avoids scratches on the bowl.
CONS (poor things)
- You cannot add mix-ins during the churning process because it doesn’t have separate opening.
4. Sunbeam Polar Blast Ice cream Maker
Making ice-cream with sunbeam polar blast ice-cream maker is very easy. It makes ice-cream quickly and the design is completely different from the other products in our list. The complete body of the ice-cream maker is made up of good quality plastic.
It has a tube at the upper part along with a blue colour lid. At the front there is an opening from where you can collect the ice-cream. Once at a time it prepares 2-3 cups of ice-cream. This machine is best for combining 2 different flavours or preparing ice-cream using frozen yogurt.
It is semi manual and semi automatic kind of machine that prepares ice-cream in 5-10 minutes. All the parts of the device are separable, which makes it easy to wash. This product comes with a drawback where it is not suitable for preparing ice-cream using raw ingredients.
How to use?
Take some frozen yogurt and pour it into the tubular structure of the machine. Now, press the blue coloured lid across the mixture by pressing the button. Collect the ice-cream from the front side.
PROS (good things)
- Easy to use
- Small in size and lightweight
- Parts are easily washable
- Good quality plastic that is BPA free
CONS (poor things)
- Parts are not dishwasher safe
5. Hershey’s Dual Single Serve Ice-Cream Machine
Two freezing insulated mugs present in Hershey’s device are of size 10 oz, which takes around 4-5 hours to freeze. It comes with two separate plastic paddles that go inside the mugs and churn ice-cream properly. As it has a unique design, all the parts of the machine can be separated and are easy to wash and reassemble back.
This ice cream maker is perfectly suitable for serving 2 members. Lid has opening near the cups where you should place the funnels to pour the ingredients into the cup. The top of the machine consists of the motor which allows the paddles to rotate and start the process.
Once the complete set up is done we can switch on the device and leave it for 20 minutes. Though it has high speed but the noise produced by the motor is very less. It needs supervision as it doesn’t have alarm in it. You can turn off the switch after 20-30 minutes.
How to use?
- Here, all you need to do is initially take out the mugs and freeze them.
- On the other side you can prepare the ice cream mixture and keep it ready.
- Once the mugs are frozen place them properly on the device and keep the paddles in it.
- Now, close the entire device by keeping the lid and motor above it.
- Then, you can use funnels and place them near the opening to pour the mixture into the mug.
- Make sure you put proper measurement of mixture otherwise it may come outside and increase your cleaning work.
- When everything is set up properly you can switch it on and leave for about 20-3 minutes.
- Then, turn off the device and consume the ice cream.
PROS (good things)
- 2 insulated mugs
- Produces very low sound
- 2 ingredients funnel
- Easy to wash
CONS (poor things)
- It doesn’t consists of alarm.
6. Cuisinart ICE-21 ice cream maker
Cuisinart is one of the oldest and trusted brands of ice-cream makers. This is second product of Cuisinart in our list. The model ICE-21 is suitable for those who want small and sleek products for their kitchen.
An insulated bowl of Cuisinart comes with capacity of 1.5 litres that takes approximately 12-14 hours for cooling. Once, the bowl is frozen you can directly attach it to the base. Mixing paddles has blades of about 1 and 1 ½ inches that speeds up the churning process. It is made up of BPA free material. The heavy duty motor, present at the base of the device controls the working of mixing paddles.
The large transparent lid measures 3 inches in diameter which makes it easy to pour the contents into the bowl. Also, the locking system makes it fuss free to lock and unlock the system.
This is a multipurpose device that is helpful in preparing sorbet, gelato and frozen yogurt. Rubber grips are given to fix the device firmly on the surface to avoid skidding or slipping of the device during the operation.
How to use?
Take out the insulated bowl and freeze it for about 15-16 hours. Afterwards immediately attach it on the machine and place the paddles in it. Now, pour all the contents into it and switch on the machine. You can have delicious and creamy ice cream after 20 minutes.
PROS (good things)
- Large capacity
- It is very easy to clean because the bowl is detachable
- The rubber feet avoid any kind of damage to the device.
- Good quality BPA free paddles.
CONS (poor things)
- Bowl is not dishwasher safe.
7. Hamilton Beach Ice-Cream Maker
The last product from our list is from Hamilton beach brand. It has insulated bowl of capacity 1.5 quarts which provides 6-8 scoops of ice-cream. This bowl takes 20-22 hours to get frozen completely and is suitable for almost all kinds of refrigerators.
Mixing paddle blades are strong enough to churn the ice cream properly and make thick ice cream. This machine is useful for preparing the sorbet and frozen yogurt. The lid is wide open that allows you to add the ingredients directly from the above. Also, the parts can be detached and cleaned easily. So, you can also add mix-ins easily in-between the churning process.
Base of this machine has a motor attached to it that runs to make ice cream thick and creamy. During operation the device makes noise of about 80-90 dB which is a point of concern.
How to use?
Initially freeze the bowl for about 22 hours and later attach it on the machine. Place the paddles and lid. Now, carefully pour all the ingredients from the above corner. Once, it is ready, turn on the machine and let is start churning process. Due to single insulation it takes about 1 hour to prepare ice-cream of your choice.
PROS (good things)
- Easy to clean as you can separate all the parts
- Comes with a free user manual
- Allows you to mix the add-ons easily.
- It has large capacity of 1.5 quarts ice-cream.
CONS (poor things)
- The frozen bowl starts to warm up very soon
- None of the parts of machine are dishwasher safe.
- Makes little bit noise.
Info-graph: Easy 3 Steps to Make Ice Cream
Buyer’s Guide – How to Choose Best Ice Cream Maker?
Ice cream making used to be a labor-intensive activity because it requires several minutes of hand cranking to achieve the ice cream’s velvety texture. Now, there is a wide range of ice cream makers on the market, and for some options, all it takes is a push of a button. Let us guide you on what to consider before buying an ice cream maker.
1. What Type of Ice Cream Maker is Good for You?
Depending on working mechanism and time to make ice cream, there are three different types:
a. Ice and Salt (Bucket) Machine
In this type, ice and salt are used for freezing the ingredients.
It contains a long metal canister which is placed in a bucket filled with ice and salt. Liquid mixture is poured into the canister. It is churned using the dasher while salt and ice cools it down. Salt maintain the lower temperature of the ice so that the mixture can freeze into ice.
Advantages
- Pre-chilling of the bowl is not required. So you can make ice creams or frozen desserts whenever you want them.
- You can make another batch immediately after making one batch.
- These machine can make ice cream in big quantities (4 to 6liters) at a time. So, you can make lots of frozen dessert within less time.
Disadvantages
- A lit amount of pre-planning required. You have to make sure you have plenty of ice and salt before starting the process.
- The process can get messy sometimes.
- You should keep a close eye on the machine as you may have to add salt or ice whenever required.
- If you are purchasing a bigger machine, then you should consider storage requirements as well.
b. Canister (Frozen Bowl) Machines
Canister ice cream makers contain a bowl with freezing element.
You have to place this bowl in a freezer for 1 or 2 days. After that, you can place the bowl in the ice cream maker and add the ingredients. Now you can start the machine and ice cream will be ready in 10 to 15 minutes.
Advantages
- Easy to use than bucket mode. You can just add the mixture, turn the machine on and come back after 3 minutes.
- As there is no ice or salt to deal with, they don’t leave any mess.
- Being compact, they are perfect for small kitchen and easy to store when not in use.
- They are affordably priced, last long and low in maintenance.
Disadvantages
- Bowl should be placed in freezer for at least 6 hours before using. So, pre-planning is compulsory required.
- Bowl of this ice cream maker are not small, so you have to check whether your freezer has enough space or not.
- Their bowl capacity is smaller than ice and salt machines. They can make 1 or 2liter frozen dessert per batch.
- Not suitable for making large capacities at a time as you cannot make back to back batches.
c. Compressor Machines
Compressor type are digital ice cream makers.
They contain a compressor which churns and freezes the ingredients to make ice cream quickly. They provide smooth textured ice cream within less time.
Advantages
- Most convenient and flexible to use. You don’t have to put bowl in the freezer beforehand. There is no ness that is usually caused by the ice and salt machines.
- You can make ice cream whenever you want to eat. Once a batch is finishes, you can make another batch immediately. So, it is perfect for large families.
- They come with more options and features than other models. Some smart features include auto-shut off, ice cream storage, and different mode settings like gelato or sorbet.
Disadvantages
- Being big and heavy, they can occupy space on your kitchen platform.
- Their capacity is similar to canister model.
- Expensive than other types.
2. How easy to use and clean?
Compressor ice cream machines are the most opted one as they do most of the work for you. As mentioned, several added features also make making ice cream easy. Easy digital display, light bowls, etc.
Also, if the parts of the unit can be removed while cleaning, it would be easy for you to clean it. Also, the components must be easy to assemble after washing them.
3. Material used
The spinning blades are mostly made up of stainless steel to prevent it from getting rusted after using it. If the material is good, it would aerate the mixture better and produce better ice creams.
Also, while buying a manual ice cream maker ensure that arm is durable. If it can handle fast speed, then it can provide ice cream with better texture and quickly. If possible, go for stainless steel mixing paddle.
4. How good is the texture and consistency?
Some of the high-end models provide a great texture, and no one beat the smooth ice cream, which is why a compressor ice cream machine is considered to be the best one. Ice and salt ice cream machine allows you extra control over the texture as you have the option for different speed and options.
The slow process will make the ice cream thicker while fast will make it lighter and thinner. Faster methods will prevent a build-up of ice that will provide a great texture.
5. Capacity and Speed
It is essential to have an appropriate idea about how much ice cream you might require so that you always have enough.
Also, if you want to make ice cream the same day, then you should go for a compressor ice cream machine. All the other types of ice cream makers need lead time. The selling point of compressor machines is their speed.
6. Additional features to consider
- Extra Frozen Bowl: Few frozen bowl ice cream makers come with extra bowl or they sell additional one which can make it easy for you start the making of ice cream every time you are ready for the batch.
- Ready Bell: As your ice cream is done the ready bell inform you with a sound.
- Stay Cool Function: A stay cool function gives you flexibility to take your time, to save the trouble of having to eat or transfer your ice cream as it’s done.
- Hardness Options: You can choose the preferred thickness for your ice cream as they have different setting option.
- Cool Down Function: Compressor models allow you to get the ice cream faster as they have cool down function.
- Digital Display: Digital Display helps you to choose temperature and change settings easily.
Common Questions about Ice Cream Makers
Time to prepare ice cream varies significantly based on type of the ice cream makers. If you want to prepare ice cream immediately within 30-40 minutes then, use canister type of ice cream maker.
For bucket type or compressor type ice cream makers – just take a wet cloth and clean it properly.
For canister type ice cream maker – it has a detachable insulated bowl which can be cleaned using soap water and normal water.
Over to You
Consider buying one of the best ice cream makers and the next time you crave for a frozen treat, consider a healthier option by making your own ice cream.
As seen in this post, Ice cream makers come in a range of designs to help you create homemade and more organic versions of this very versatile dessert. We recommend Kitchenif as our top pick. Make sure you check product features to ensure your needs!
