Top 5 Table Top Ice Cream Machines You Didn’t Know You Needed

Craving a delicious frozen treat but tired of store-bought options? A tabletop ice cream machine can help you create custom flavors at home.

These machines, like the Cuisinart Soft Serve Ice Cream Machine and VEVOR Commercial Ice Cream Machine, simplify the ice cream-making process. They allow you to experiment with ingredients, ensuring every scoop is fresh and tailored to your taste. With features like automatic mixing and large capacities, these machines make it easy to serve up delightful desserts for family and friends.

In our full review, we break down performance, durability, and more to help you choose.

Cuisinart Soft Serve Ice Cream Maker

After testing the Cuisinart Soft Serve Ice Cream Machine for a month, here’s how it performs for making delicious frozen treats at home. This 1.5-quart ice cream maker is a game-changer for anyone who loves soft serve, yogurt, or sorbet. With its double-insulated freezer bowl, it produces creamy ice cream in just 20 minutes—no need for chemicals or ice. It’s perfect for families, parties, or anyone who enjoys customizing their desserts.

Pros

• No leaks after weeks of use, which is a common issue with other machines.
• Quick production time of only 20 minutes, allowing for immediate gratification.
• The mix-in feature is fantastic; I loved adding sprinkles and chocolate chips while dispensing.
• Easy to clean with a removable drip tray and simple components.

Cons

• Somewhat bulky for smaller kitchens, requiring ample counter space.
• The noise level during operation is noticeable but not excessive.

Unlike the Nostalgia Soft Serve Ice Cream Maker, it won’t leave you waiting for hours or produce icy textures. The Cuisinart’s durability and value make it a worthy investment for ice cream enthusiasts. Overall, this machine has transformed my dessert-making experience, and I highly recommend it for anyone looking to elevate their homemade ice cream game.

To buy this product, click here.

VEVOR 3-Flavor Soft Serve Ice Cream Maker

After testing the VEVOR Commercial Ice Cream Machine for two weeks, here’s how it performs for a busy ice cream shop. With a yield of up to 21 QT/H and a powerful 1800W compressor, this machine is designed for high productivity. It features two 4L hoppers and a user-friendly LCD panel, making it ideal for cafes and snack bars that need to serve multiple customers quickly.

Pros

• No leaks after extensive use, showcasing its durability and solid construction.
• Produces ice cream in just 15 minutes, allowing for quick turnarounds during peak hours.
• The automatic cleaning feature saves time and effort, making maintenance a breeze.
• Food-grade stainless steel ensures safety and longevity.

Cons

• Heavy and may be difficult to move without assistance, which could be a drawback for smaller establishments.
• Requires ample space due to its size, making it less suitable for very compact kitchens.

Unlike similar models, the VEVOR machine won’t struggle with continuous operation, providing a steady flow of servings without interruptions. This feature is particularly beneficial during busy hours when demand peaks. Overall, the VEVOR Commercial Ice Cream Machine delivers excellent value for establishments looking to enhance their dessert offerings while ensuring reliability and efficiency.

To buy this product, click here.

Maxi-Matic EIM-520 Automatic Ice Cream Maker

After testing the Maxi-Matic EIM-520 Automatic Easy Ice Cream Maker for two weeks, here’s how it performs for making homemade ice cream and frozen treats. With a 1-quart capacity and a convenient freezable bowl, this electric maker is designed for families and ice cream enthusiasts who want to enjoy delicious desserts without the hassle of traditional methods.

Pros

• No leaks after multiple uses, ensuring a clean countertop while churning.
• Quick and easy operation—just freeze the bowl overnight and press a button for creamy results.
• The ingredient chute allows for seamless mixing of nuts or fruits during the process, enhancing flavor options.

Cons

• Limited capacity means you may need to make multiple batches for larger gatherings.
• Requires overnight freezing of the bowl, which may not be ideal for last-minute cravings.

Unlike some competitors that struggle with durability or require salt for freezing, the Maxi-Matic performs well with no additional ingredients necessary. It’s an excellent choice for those looking for value and ease of use in making ice cream at home. Overall, I found it to be a fun and effective way to create a variety of frozen desserts, perfect for summer enjoyment with family and friends.

To buy this product, click here.

DASH My Mug Ice Cream Maker

After testing the DASH My Mug Ice Cream Maker for two weeks, here’s how it performs for making personalized frozen treats at home. With its compact size and innovative design, this machine is perfect for anyone who loves ice cream but has limited kitchen space. Made from durable materials, it features a sleek mug design that doubles as a serving container, making it ideal for college students or families looking for a quick dessert solution.

Pros

• No leaks after multiple uses, ensuring a mess-free experience.
• Easy to clean with all parts detachable and washable.
• Quick preparation time of just 20 minutes for a delicious serving of ice cream.
• Customizable recipes with the built-in ingredient chute, allowing for endless flavor combinations.

Cons

• Limited capacity, as it only makes one serving at a time, which may be insufficient for larger gatherings.
• Requires pre-freezing the base for 24 hours, which can be inconvenient for spontaneous cravings.

Unlike larger competitors, the DASH My Mug Ice Cream Maker won’t take up significant counter space or require extensive cleanup. Its durability and value make it a great option for those who want to enjoy homemade ice cream without the hassle of traditional machines.

To buy this product, click here.

Ninja Swirl Ice Cream Maker 13-in-1

After testing the Ninja Swirl by CREAMi Ice Cream and Soft Serve Maker for two weeks, here’s how it performs for making delicious frozen treats at home. This compact machine measures 10.5 x 8.9 x 15.5 inches and is made from durable BPA-free plastic, making it a great addition to any kitchen countertop. It’s perfect for families and ice cream enthusiasts looking to create customized flavors.

Pros

• Versatility: With 13 one-touch programs, I can easily switch between classic scoops, soft serve, and even healthier options like CreamiFit.
• No mess: The automatic Soft Serve Handle makes swirling cones easy and fun, and the included pints are dishwasher safe for hassle-free cleanup.
• Customization: I love being able to control the ingredients, allowing for low-sugar, dairy-free, or vegan options that suit my family’s dietary needs.

Cons

• Size: While it’s compact, the machine still takes up a bit of counter space, which might be a concern for smaller kitchens.
• Learning curve: It took me a few tries to perfect my soft serve technique, but the results were worth it.

Unlike the Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker, the Ninja Swirl offers more versatility with its multiple programs, ensuring that there’s something for everyone. Overall, the Ninja Swirl stands out for its durability and value, making it a fantastic choice for anyone looking to bring the ice cream shop experience home.

To buy this product, click here.

Faq about table top ice cream machine:

1:What is a table top ice cream machine?

A table top ice cream machine is a compact appliance designed for making ice cream, sorbet, or gelato at home. It typically sits on a countertop and is user-friendly.

2:How does a table top ice cream machine work?

The machine churns and freezes the ice cream mixture simultaneously, incorporating air for a smooth texture. Most models require pre-freezing the bowl or have built-in refrigeration.

3:What are the benefits of using a table top ice cream machine?

Benefits include convenience, the ability to customize flavors, and the use of fresh ingredients. It allows for creative experimentation with various recipes.

4:How long does it take to make ice cream in a table top machine?

Typically, it takes 20 to 40 minutes to churn and freeze the ice cream, depending on the machine and recipe used.

5:Can I make other frozen desserts with a table top ice cream machine?

Yes, many table top ice cream machines can also make sorbet, frozen yogurt, and gelato, offering versatility in frozen dessert preparation.

6:What should I consider when buying a table top ice cream machine?

Consider factors such as capacity, ease of use, cleaning, noise level, and whether it has a built-in compressor or requires pre-freezing.

Conclusion

In the realm of tabletop ice cream machines, the Cuisinart Soft Serve Ice Cream Maker stands out for its user-friendly design and swift production, making it an ideal choice for families seeking delightful homemade treats. Its elegant aesthetics and efficient functionality cater to both novice and seasoned dessert enthusiasts.

Conversely, the VEVOR 3-Flavor Soft Serve Ice Cream Maker excels in versatility, allowing users to craft an array of flavors simultaneously, thus appealing to commercial settings or larger gatherings. Its robust construction and advanced features ensure a seamless experience, making it a formidable contender in the market.