11 Best Soft Serve Ice Cream Machine – Updated for 2023!
Ice cream, that perennial favorite treat, presents a tantalizing temptation for many of us. Yet, the creation of this delectable dessert at home can pose a formidable challenge. The intricacies involved in achieving the perfect soft-serve consistency often necessitate the use of a specialized machine, designed to handle this delicate process.
Fortunately, the proliferation of online stores has made it easier to acquire the best soft-serve ice cream machine for your home, but the wealth of options can also make the decision overwhelming. Selecting the ideal machine isn’t just about the price tag or the brand, but it requires a careful evaluation of multiple features.
The recommendations stem from an in-depth analysis encompassing a variety of critical factors. These include the type of machine, be it a floor model, countertop, or combination model; the volume output, determining the quantity it can produce; the number of flavors it can create; and the power supply requirements.
Additionally, we also scrutinize the price, ensuring a range of options to suit various budgets, and the warranty, a vital aspect that provides assurance of the machine’s longevity and performance.
Stay tuned to find out which soft-serve ice cream machines top our list.
List Of Best Soft Serve Ice Cream Machine in 2022!
- Best Overall Ice Cream Machine: Cuisinart ICE-45P1
- Best Runner-up Ice Cream Machine: Cuisinart ICE-30BC
- Best Budget Ice Cream Machine: Hamilton Beach Ice Cream Maker
- Best Versatile Ice Cream Machine: Lello 4080 Musso
- Best Energy Efficient Ice Cream Machine: Breville BCI600XL
- Best Ice Cream Machine with Built-in Compressor: Whynter ICM-15LS
- Best Ice Cream Machine with Multi Functions: Cuisinart ICE-70P1
- Best Automatic Ice Cream Machine: Whynter ICM-200LS
- Best Ice Cream Machine for Gelato: Whynter ICM-220CGY
- Best Capacity Ice Cream Machine: Whynter ICM-201SB
- Best Bucket Style Ice Cream Machine: Nostalgia
Best Soft-Serve Ice Cream Machine Reviews
1. Best Overall Ice Cream Machine: Cuisinart ICE-45P1
The Cuisinart ICE-45P1 is a paragon of home ice cream making, embodying a delightful blend of functionality and design. This professional-quality, fully automatic machine, priced at an accessible $120.88, excels at whipping up a delectable array of frozen treats including soft serve ice cream, yogurt, sorbet, sherbet, all in just 20 minutes. Thanks to its double-insulated freezer bowl, there’s no need for any additives like chemicals, salt, or ice – a testament to its superior function and design.
At the heart of the ICE-45P1’s appeal is its impressive capacity to churn out 1.5 quarts of ice cream, an ideal volume for family gatherings or small parties. Moreover, its built-in three-condiment containers set it apart, allowing users to integrate their favorite mix-ins directly into the soft serve as it’s dispensed, accommodating anything from the delicate crunch of sprinkles to the richer bite of mini chocolate morsels.
Ease of use is another standout feature. With a mere pull of one, two, or three levers, you can customize your mix-ins, and then a simple pull-down of the handle produces the classic soft serve swirl, just like a professional machine.
Notably, the Cuisinart ICE-45P1 is also equipped with essential features such as an ON/OFF power dial, a versatile cone holder for both flat and pointed-bottom cones, a removable drip tray for fuss-free cleaning, and a mix-in gauge to prevent clogging.
Constructed of robust aluminum and plastic, this model measures 9.7 x 9 x 18.2 inches and weighs in at 16.7 pounds. With its automatic operation mode, the machine takes the labor out of ice cream making, enabling a smooth and efficient experience.
A limited 3-year warranty further solidifies the purchase, providing peace of mind alongside its high-quality performance.
Built to North American Electrical Standards, the Cuisinart ICE-45P1 is the best soft serve ice cream machine for anyone with a love for homemade frozen treats, from families to small business owners.
2. Best Runner-up Ice Cream Machine: Cuisinart ICE-30BC
The Cuisinart ICE-30BC, priced reasonably at $70.00, is a sublime exemplar of superior functionality in home dessert making. This brushed stainless steel automatic machine comes with a robust heavy-duty motor, designed to deliver frozen delights or refreshing drinks in a swift 20 minutes. A solid blend of durability and sleek design, it elevates any countertop while catering to your sweet indulgences.
Housing a generous 2-quart double insulated freezer bowl, the ICE-30BC offers a substantial output, rendering it suitable for family dinners, friendly gatherings, or as a cost-effective choice for small businesses.
Furthermore, its large ingredient spout allows effortless addition of your favored mix-ins, amplifying the fun and creativity in dessert creation. The appliance’s must-have features extend to a retractable cord storage, ensuring a neat and clutter-free countertop.
Ease of use and maintenance are inherent in this model, with included accessories like a replacement lid and a paddle. Instructions and a recipe book also accompany the machine to guide novices and inspire the seasoned dessert makers alike.
To ensure optimal freezing, the manufacturers advise users to set their freezers to 0-degrees F, a practical note that further testifies to the machine’s commitment to quality and consistency.
Dimensionally, the ICE-30BC is compact, measuring 8.25 x 8 x 11.25 inches, and relatively lightweight at 13.5 pounds, which ensures its suitability for different kitchen sizes. Given its automatic operation mode, the machine simplifies the ice cream making process while maximizing convenience.
Moreover, a limited 3-year warranty underscores the machine’s reliable performance, while also rendering this BPA-free product an attractive purchase.
With its combination of impressive features and affordability, the Cuisinart ICE-30BC is an excellent choice for ice cream aficionados, families, and small-scale caterers.
3. Best Budget Ice Cream Machine: Hamilton Beach Electric Automatic Ice Cream Maker
Priced at an affordable $49.99, the Hamilton Beach Electric Automatic Ice Cream Maker is the ideal solution for those on a budget who yearn for homemade frozen treats. This machine allows you to bring a creative spin to your desserts, letting you add everything from chopped fruit and nuts to chocolate chips and candy pieces, making every creation uniquely yours.
The machine boasts an impressive production speed, churning out homemade ice cream in as little as 20 minutes. The on/off switch operation makes it user-friendly, and with no requirement for rock salt or hand churning, it’s all about simplicity and efficiency.
The Hamilton Beach Ice Cream Maker does not limit you to ice cream alone. Its 1.5-quart capacity can also be used to prepare a variety of other frozen delights such as frozen yogurt, sorbet, gelato, sherbet, and custard, all from your fresh ingredients.
With three simple steps for operation – attaching the pre-frozen bowl, turning on the machine and adding ingredients, and then incorporating your favorite mix-ins – this machine is not only perfect for household use but also for parties, gatherings, and family fun. The bowl, designed for easy freezing, adds to the convenience.
The Hamilton Beach Electric Automatic Ice Cream Maker, measuring 10.13 x 10.13 x 14 inches and weighing 7.55 pounds, is best suited for those who want to explore making homemade frozen desserts without a significant financial outlay. Its user-friendliness makes it suitable for beginners as well.
4. Best Versatile Ice Cream Machine: Lello 4080 Musso
Priced at $864.48, the Lello 4080 Musso is the epitome of a high-quality, professional-grade soft serve ice cream machine. This fully automatic machine has a 1-1/2-quart capacity bowl that can efficiently churn out up to 3 quarts of ice cream or sorbet per hour, which makes it a powerful tool for serious dessert makers and small business owners.
The Lello 4080 Musso’s simple operation belies its outstanding performance. With a mere pour of ingredients into the bowl and the press of two buttons, the machine takes over, guided by a timer for different frozen treats. This device, designed with a stainless steel body, bowl, and paddle, ensures durability and easy cleaning, key considerations for frequent use.
The machine’s capacity is substantial, making it a suitable choice for catering to larger gatherings or even commercial needs. Its dimensions of 27x45x30 cm and a solid weight of 18 kg underscore its sturdy build and professional orientation. It operates with a power of 200 W and a paddle induction motor with an RPM of 80, which contributes to the quality and consistency of the ice cream it produces.
The Lello 4080 Musso comes with a mechanic timer of 60 minutes and uses the R134A refrigerant, making it energy efficient. Its warranty period is a year, providing assurance against manufacturing defects and enhancing its value proposition.
Ideal for high-end home users, passionate dessert makers, or small-scale commercial applications like cafes and boutique ice cream shops, the Lello 4080 Musso offers a sophisticated combination of professional-grade performance and intuitive operation.
5. Best Energy Efficient Ice Cream Machine: Breville BCI600XL
Priced at $499.95, the Breville BCI600XL is a versatile soft serve ice cream machine that brings innovation and customizability to your kitchen. It stands out with 12 different hardness settings, allowing you to create a diverse array of frozen desserts including sorbet, frozen yogurt, gelato, and ice cream, perfect for those who appreciate variety.
The BCI600XL features a 1.5 quart (1 Liter) bowl capacity, which makes it an optimal choice for small to medium gatherings. Its self-refrigerating compressor functions at a voltage of 110 to 120 Volts and a power of 165 watts, which guarantees a consistent, quality output.
This machine is unique in offering fully automatic or manual functionality, allowing users to engage with the process as much or as little as they wish. This includes a “keep cool” setting that maintains your dessert’s temperature for up to 3 hours, a feature that enhances convenience during social events. A pre-cool setting also ensures the machine is at its optimal operating temperature before use.
With dimensions of 15.75 x 11 x 11 inches and weighing 30 pounds, the BCI600XL is a sturdy, reliable option that suits a variety of kitchen spaces. Its operation mode is manual, which can be a fun, hands-on experience for those who enjoy engaging with their culinary creations. A 1-year limited product warranty provides an extra layer of protection and trust in the quality of the product.
The Breville BCI600XL is best suited for home users who value versatility, control, and quality in their homemade frozen desserts. Its convenience and range of settings make it a wonderful investment for families and dedicated dessert makers alike.
6. Best Ice Cream Machine with Built-in Compressor: Whynter ICM-15LS Automatic Ice Cream Maker
Priced at $243.75, the Whynter ICM-15LS Automatic Ice Cream Maker is an award-winning self-freezing machine, hailed as the best in its class by WireCutter and Real Simple. This powerful, versatile appliance excels at creating a wide array of frozen desserts, including ice cream, sorbet, Italian gelato, sherbets, and fresh frozen yogurts, all in about 30-40 minutes.
The ICM-15LS boasts a generous 1.6-quart (1.5-liter) capacity and provides a cooling temperature range of -0.4ºF to -31ºF. The stainless steel housing exudes durability, while the BPA-free aluminum removable mixing bowl and churn blade facilitate easy cleaning and storage.
Featuring an LCD timer control and a reliable built-in audible timer, this machine ensures that you achieve perfect consistency every time. Furthermore, its Motor Protection Function is a standout feature that automatically shuts off the machine to prevent damage if the mixture freezes solid, a testament to Whynter’s focus on longevity.
Designed with dimensions of 11 x 18.5 x 10 inches and a weight of 27 pounds, this ice cream maker offers continuous operation mode, thanks to its powerful built-in compressor. No need for pre-freezing the mixing bowl, it’s all about convenience and superior taste.
The Whynter ICM-15LS Automatic Ice Cream Maker is ideal for home users and frozen dessert enthusiasts who appreciate top-tier features and want to explore a range of dessert types. Its blend of quality, versatility, and ease of use, paired with a 1-year limited warranty, make it a valuable addition to any kitchen.
7. Best Ice Cream Machine with Multi Functions: Cuisinart ICE-70P1
The Cuisinart ICE-70P1, priced at $109.99, is a perfect synthesis of superior functionality and user-friendly design in the realm of home dessert making. This impressive machine empowers you to craft 2 quarts of various frozen delights such as ice cream, frozen yogurt, gelato, or sorbet in a mere 20 minutes, thanks to its improved paddle design and expedited processing time.
Excelling in capacity, the ICE-70P1 is a fantastic solution for those looking to serve up a sizable batch of homemade frozen treats for larger family gatherings or social events. The versatility of dessert options also allows you to cater to a diverse range of flavor preferences, making it a crowd-pleaser.
One of the distinguishing features of this model is the incorporation of modern technology, such as the LCD screen, and user-friendly controls including three settings with multiple speeds. Additionally, the machine features a countdown timer with auto shut-off, ensuring a smooth and foolproof operation every time.
The inclusive element continues with the addition of an ingredient spout designed with an integrated measuring cup, simplifying the pour process while minimizing spillage.
With dimensions of 9.74 x 8.62 x 13.22 inches and weighing 13.5 pounds, the ICE-70P1 is compact enough to suit kitchens of varying sizes without sacrificing capacity.
Its automatic operation mode and a limited 3-year warranty make it an appealing choice for those seeking convenience, quality, and reassurance in their purchase.
Ideal for those with a passion for creating a spectrum of frozen delights, from families to hobbyist dessert makers, the Cuisinart ICE-70P1 is a blend of versatility, convenience, and superior performance.
8. Best Automatic Ice Cream Machine: Whynter ICM-200LS Automatic Ice Cream Maker
Priced at $221.99, the Whynter ICM-200LS Automatic Ice Cream Maker is the epitome of automation in dessert-making. This high-capacity machine is designed for enthusiastic entertainers, capable of producing up to 2 quarts of your favorite frozen delight in a single run, giving you the freedom to personalize your ice cream to your taste preferences.
The Whynter ICM-200LS, however, doesn’t stop at ice cream. As an all-around electric ice cream and yogurt maker, it allows you to craft everything from gelato, sorbet, to traditional and Greek style yogurts. This gives you control over your ingredients, ensuring a healthier and more authentic dessert experience at home.
Thanks to its powerful built-in compressor freezer, this machine offers continuous use without requiring the stainless steel mixing bowl to be pre-frozen. This brings convenience and efficiency to a new level.
The Whynter ICM-200LS also prioritizes safety and ease of use. It features an Extended Cooling function that prevents your ice cream from melting, and a Motor Protection function that stops the motor once the mixture solidifies, preventing overheating or damage.
The unit sports a modern stainless steel exterior and a soft-touch LCD control panel that compliments any kitchen counter. Weighing 24.25 pounds and measuring 11.25 x 16.75 x 10.25 inches, this device is ideal for home cooks and food enthusiasts looking to explore automatic dessert making with a modern, reliable machine.
9. Best Ice Cream Machine for Gelato: Whynter ICM-220CGY
Presenting the Whynter ICM-220CGY Ice Cream Maker, a top-of-the-line machine that truly excels in creating artisanal gelato, priced at $301.56. This self-contained frozen dessert maker does not require pre-freezing, offering the ultimate convenience in crafting delicious ice cream, frozen yogurt, and especially rich, creamy gelato.
Designed with a chic champagne gold stainless steel housing, this machine comes with a 2.1-quart BPA-free stainless steel removable mixing bowl and churn blade that ensures effortless cleaning and storage. The powerful built-in compressor freezer allows for continuous use, liberating you from the necessity of pre-freezing the mixing bowl.
What makes the Whynter ICM-220CGY stand out is its Yogurt Incubator function, allowing you to make traditional to Greek style yogurts, ensuring an all-natural, healthy treat. The machine’s high capacity makes it ideal for entertaining, producing up to two quarts of your favorite frozen dessert or yogurt in a single batch.
Equipped with an LCD timer control and a Motor Protection Function, the machine shuts off to prevent damage if the mixture freezes solid, ensuring safety in operation. Measuring 16.75″W x 11.25″D x 10.25″H and weighing 24.25 pounds, it is perfect for gelato lovers and culinary enthusiasts who enjoy crafting homemade frozen treats.
With its versatile functionality and superior performance, the Whynter ICM-220CGY Ice Cream Maker is the best choice for making artisanal gelato at home.
10. Best Capacity Ice Cream Machine: Whynter ICM-201SB
Introducing the Whynter ICM-201SB Ice Cream Maker, your top-choice high-capacity soft serve ice cream machine for home use, priced reasonably at $301.56. With a 2-quart capacity, this machine is perfect for entertaining, allowing you to make a sizable batch of your favorite frozen dessert that can be fully customized to your taste.
Craft homemade gelato, ice cream, sorbet, and frozen yogurt effortlessly using the ingredients you trust. This electric ice cream maker sports a powerful built-in compressor freezer that offers continuous use without the need to pre-freeze the stainless steel mixing bowl, providing you with quick and convenient service.
This machine prioritizes safety and ease-of-use. It comes equipped with an Extended Cooling function to prevent ice cream from melting and a Motor Protection function that halts the motor when the mixture solidifies, protecting against overheating or damage.
With its sleek, food-safe stainless steel exterior and small footprint, the Whynter ICM-201SB seamlessly complements any kitchen counter. The machine is also user-friendly with its three modes: Ice Cream, Cooling Only, and Mixing Only modes, alongside a pause function for greater control over your dessert making process.
Boasting dimensions of 10.75″ x 12.5″ x 14.25″ and weighing in at 24.25 pounds, this machine offers a significant capacity while maintaining a compact form. The removable stainless steel mixing bowl and churn blade ensure ease of cleaning and storage.
The Whynter ICM-201SB Ice Cream Maker, with its impressive capacity, versatility, and convenience, is ideal for dessert lovers who regularly host gatherings, or for larger families who adore indulging in homemade frozen treats.
11. Best Bucket Style Ice Cream Machine: Nostalgia
Introducing the Nostalgia Electric Ice Cream Maker, a bucket-style soft serve machine that combines a nostalgic aesthetic with modern convenience. With a price tag of just $41.32, this machine stands as an affordable and delightful addition to any kitchen.
The Nostalgia Ice Cream Maker is designed to provide you with a unique ice cream experience right at home. You can prepare ice cream, frozen yogurt, or gelato that is customized to your personal taste, or try your hand at creating unique flavors. It pairs perfectly with Nostalgia ice cream kits, adding versatility to your homemade treats.
With a 4-quart capacity, it’s built to serve up a delicious dessert in just 20 minutes, thanks to the powerful electric motor that eliminates the need for manual effort. Its see-through lid allows for easy viewing, and it’s also designed for convenient freezer storage.
Its bucket-style design is complemented by a convenient carrying handle, making it highly portable and ideal for parties or visits to the neighbors. It features a real wood construction and an easy-to-clean plastic bucket. The package includes a set of recipes, making it beginner-friendly.
The Nostalgia Electric Ice Cream Maker is the best fit for those who value a combination of a nostalgic aesthetic and modern functionality in a budget-friendly package. It’s a great option for families and for individuals who enjoy hosting casual gatherings. The charm of its vintage-inspired design is sure to be a conversation starter, while its efficiency and ease-of-use will make it a beloved fixture in any home.
How to make homemade soft serve ice cream at your home?
What is the difference between ice cream and soft serve ice cream?
If you are an ice cream lover, you probably know that there are two types of ice creams that are served generally.
- Soft Serve Ice Cream
- Hard Serve Ice Cream
Many people prefer one over the other but there is a huge customer base, who loves them both including me.
So we are going to talk about what is actually the difference between soft serve and hard serve ice cream.
The most common difference between soft serve and hard serve is that soft serve ice cream has less amount of milk fat and utilizes more air during the process of preparation.
If the soft serve ice cream has the bright white color, it means it is of good quality and the right amount of air is added to it.
When the required amount of air is added, the ice cream becomes fluffy and the molecules extracts white light that gives the ice cream a good white color.
If the air mixture is not right, the white color will not be bright white but dull and yellowish color.
The soft serve ice cream is more smoother and creamier if the right amount of air is added during freezing.
The serving temperatures are also different in both types.
The soft serve ice cream is served at -6Degrees Celsius as compared to hard serve ice cream which is served at around -12Degrees Celsius.
“The optimum temperature is 0°F (-18°C) or colder. The temperature in the supermarket’s freezer case should not be above 10°F (-12°C). If kept at a proper temperature, ice cream will be thoroughly frozen and will feel hard to the touch.” IDFA (International Dairy Foods Association
Both soft serve and hard serve ice cream is made in the same ice cream machine but while making soft serve ice cream, the machine is programmed to incorporate more air and doesn’t allow the ice cream to get hard.
How often should a soft serve ice cream machine be cleaned?
Cleanliness of your machines and equipment is extremely important specially when dealing with perishable products like dairy products.
Often times it is clearly mentioned on the soft serve ice cream machine user manual what measures should be taken to keep the machine clean and how many times per week it should be cleaned.
When dealing with soft serve ice cream, it’s usually three times a week. Probably in your area the rules could be more strickter.
Keeping the machine clean on regular basis keeps the machine running for longer period of time.
It also helps the workers to keep a constant check on the body and machine parts for possible damages.
Constant check and cleaning can also prevent the machine from getting a major damage or loss by identifying a problem or fault in time.
Stay safe.