Find great home ice cream makers

Ice and Rock salt home ice cream makers

In this machine, ice and rock salt is consolidated around the bowl, so that it keeps temperatures low and helps freeze the ice cream mixture.

Pros

This machine makes larger ice cream batches than other machines, often between 4 and 6 quartz at a time. It can have a manual or electric crank, though most models are manual. Because it is highly movable, it usually produces smooth mixtures.

Cons

During the hot season, rock salt is hard to find which means you will have to look for a substitute (such a stable salt) or not use it at all. Ice and salt levels must also be strictly monitored. Unless you are keen and have mastered using this machine, your ice cream mixture will be uneven.

Home ice cream makers with freezer bowls

The freezer bowl in this machine is usually made from metal. It contains a special freezing solution between highly insulated walls. Simply put the bowl in the freezer for a few hours, then put it back in the ice cream maker when you are ready to make your ice cream. As the crank turns, this bowl will sustain low temperatures as it churns.

Pros

When used as specified, it gives very impressive results. It is moderately priced and is affordable.

Cons

Each bowl has the capacity for making 11/2 quartz of ice cream. It is not the best model for making large quantities of ice cream as you would have to freeze the bowl for each batch. This can take anything between 6 and 24 hours, precious time during which you can make many more batches with another model.

Home ice cream makers with a self-contained compressor freezer

These models have their own built-in freezers, so all you have to do is pour in your ingredients, turn it on and it does the mixing for you.

Pros

It is very easy to use and convenient. It requires no manual input and you can make as many batches as you like, one after the other. Of all models, they make the perfect ice cream consistency.

Cons

They are more expensive than all others.

Once you’ve chosen the model you want, choose a well-known brand that will offer you reliability and long service.