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10 Best Soft Ice Cream Machine 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

CUISINART Ice Cream Maker, Ice Cream and Frozen Yogurt Machine, 2-Qt. Double-Insulated Freezer Bowl, Silver, ICE30BCP1

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,222
Capacity
Ease of Cleaning
Noise Level

Most important from
19859 reviews

Capacity
The 2-quart capacity is perfect for avoiding overflows and making enough for small gatherings.
Ease of Cleaning
It's very easy to use and clean, even for beginners.
Noise Level
This ice cream maker is surprisingly quiet, much quieter than a stand mixer.

The Cuisinart ICE30BCP1 Ice Cream Maker is a functional and efficient choice for making frozen desserts and drinks. Featuring a heavy-duty motor, it can churn out treats in as little as 20 minutes. The machine has a robust 2-quart capacity, which is ideal for small gatherings or family use. Its compact size (8.25”L x 8.25”W x 11.5”H) and moderate weight (12 pounds) make it relatively easy to store and move around the kitchen.

The brushed stainless steel finish adds an attractive look to your counter space, and the retractable cord helps keep things tidy. However, the machine does require some freezer preparation as the bowl must be frozen at 0-degrees F for optimal performance. Users might find the need to pre-freeze the bowl slightly inconvenient, but this is common among ice cream makers in this category. The Cuisinart model is also designed to be user-friendly with a large ingredient spout that makes adding mix-ins simple.

In terms of care, the unit is hand wash only, which may be a bit of a downside for those who prefer dishwasher-safe parts. The machine operates automatically and is noted to be relatively quiet compared to other models, which is a plus for those sensitive to noise. Additional features include a recipe book and a three-year limited warranty, providing extra value and peace of mind. Ideal for residential use, this machine stands out with a high customer rating and a best-seller rank, making it a reliable choice for home-made ice cream enthusiasts.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,222
Capacity
Ease of Cleaning
Noise Level

Most important from
19859 reviews

Capacity
The 2-quart capacity is perfect for avoiding overflows and making enough for small gatherings.
Ease of Cleaning
It's very easy to use and clean, even for beginners.
Noise Level
This ice cream maker is surprisingly quiet, much quieter than a stand mixer.
#3

VEVOR Commercial Ice Cream Machine, 21 QT/H Yield, 1800W 3-Flavor Countertop Soft Serve Ice Cream Maker, 2 x 4L Hopper 2 x 1.8L Cylinder, LCD Panel Auto Clean Pre-cooling, for Restaurant Snack Bar

Rating
9.5
Ease of Cleaning
Additional Features

Most important from
122 reviews

Ease of Cleaning
Simple and easy to clean, making homemade ice cream within an hour a fun experience.
Additional Features
Works great and produces firm ice cream ready for serving in just 15 minutes.

The VEVOR Commercial Ice Cream Machine is designed to cater to high-demand environments like restaurants and snack bars. With a capacity of 21 quarts per hour and two 4-liter hoppers, it ensures a steady supply of ice cream, making it suitable for busy commercial settings.

The machine’s rapid freeze capability, with an initial freeze time of 15 minutes and subsequent batches ready in 6 minutes, is a standout feature, ensuring continuous production without long waits. It includes an intuitive LCD control panel that simplifies operation, offering functions like automatic cooling, one-click cleaning, and timer settings. This user-friendly interface can be particularly beneficial for those who value ease of use and efficiency in a fast-paced environment.

Constructed from high-quality stainless steel, the VEVOR machine is robust and durable, ensuring longevity and easy maintenance, which is crucial for any commercial appliance. Its significant weight (187.4 pounds) and considerable size (20.3 x 27.2 x 29 inches) might pose challenges in terms of placement and mobility. This machine is best suited for a commercial kitchen or a dedicated space in a food service establishment where high output and durability are prioritized.

Rating
9.5
Ease of Cleaning
Additional Features

Most important from
122 reviews

Ease of Cleaning
Simple and easy to clean, making homemade ice cream within an hour a fun experience.
Additional Features
Works great and produces firm ice cream ready for serving in just 15 minutes.

Buying Guide for the Best Soft Ice Cream Machine

Choosing the right soft-ice-cream machine can be a delightful yet challenging task. The perfect machine for you will depend on your specific needs, whether you're planning to use it for a small home gathering, a bustling café, or a large event. Understanding the key specifications and how they align with your requirements will help you make an informed decision. Here are the essential specs to consider when selecting a soft-ice-cream machine.
CapacityCapacity refers to the amount of ice cream the machine can produce in a given time, usually measured in quarts or liters per hour. This is important because it determines how much ice cream you can serve at once. For home use or small gatherings, a machine with a lower capacity (around 1-2 quarts per hour) is sufficient. For a café or small business, a medium capacity (3-5 quarts per hour) might be more appropriate. For large events or high-demand settings, look for a machine with a high capacity (6+ quarts per hour) to ensure you can keep up with the demand.
Size and WeightThe size and weight of the machine are crucial for determining where you can place it and how easy it is to move. A compact and lightweight machine is ideal for home use or small spaces, as it can be easily stored and transported. Larger, heavier machines are better suited for commercial use where they can be permanently stationed. Consider the available space and whether you need to move the machine frequently when choosing the right size and weight.
Power SourceSoft-ice-cream machines can be powered by electricity or batteries. Electric machines are more common and typically more powerful, making them suitable for continuous use in commercial settings. Battery-powered machines offer portability and can be used in locations without easy access to electrical outlets, but they may have limited capacity and power. Choose an electric machine if you need consistent, high-volume production, and a battery-powered one if portability is a priority.
Ease of CleaningCleaning a soft-ice-cream machine can be a time-consuming task, so it's important to consider how easy it is to clean. Machines with removable parts and simple designs are generally easier to clean. Look for features like self-cleaning functions or dishwasher-safe components to make the process more convenient. If you plan to use the machine frequently, ease of cleaning should be a top priority to ensure hygiene and save time.
Noise LevelThe noise level of the machine can impact the environment where it's used. Quieter machines are preferable for home use or small cafés where a peaceful atmosphere is desired. In larger, noisier environments like fairs or large events, the noise level may be less of a concern. Check the manufacturer's specifications for noise levels and consider where and how you plan to use the machine to choose the right one for your needs.
Additional FeaturesSome soft-ice-cream machines come with additional features like multiple flavor options, digital controls, or built-in refrigeration. These features can enhance the user experience and provide more versatility. For example, multiple flavor options are great for variety, digital controls can offer precise settings, and built-in refrigeration ensures the ice cream stays at the perfect temperature. Consider which features are important to you based on how you plan to use the machine.

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