8 Ingenious Ice Cream Makers That Will Save You Time and Space
Going out for ice cream is a classic summer activity, but what if you didn’t have to venture into the heat and humidity to enjoy a delicious cone? Making your own frozen treats at home is a great alternative, but not everyone has the space to store such large appliances. Lucky for you, we found a bunch of at-home frozen dessert makers that take up minimal room on your counter. (Some don’t even require electricity!) Best of all, they’re easy to use and can whip up ice cream, ice pops, and slushies in a matter of minutes. Check out our sweet finds below!
Chef’n Sweet Spot Ice Cream Maker, $49.95 from Williams Sonoma
Ice cream making just got easy-peasy and efficient, thanks to this little dish. Keep it in the freezer, then add your ingredients, and after just two minutes of stirring, your dessert will be ready. You can even use it to make trendy rolled ice cream. It’s perfect for even the most impatient kiddos (or, you know, adults!).
Yaylabs Softshell Ice Cream Ball, $37 from Amazon
Make prepping ice cream even more enjoyable by filling this colorful ball with your ingredients on one side, rock salt and ice on the other, and then tossing it or rolling it around for 25 minutes while everything mixes together. Lazy summer afternoons just got way more fun!
Zoku Slush and Shake Maker, $20 from Williams Sonoma
More of a milkshake person? Whip one up at home with this affordable slushie and milkshake machine that we guarantee will be a hit at your next summer gathering, whether you serve something sweet or prepare another concoction (frozen margaritas, anyone?).
Dash My Pint Ice Cream Maker, starts at $20 from Sur La Table
This petite ice cream maker, from one of our favorite brands, Dash, packs a punch and whips up a single-sized serving, making it a great option for the ice cream-lover who lives solo. It would make a super-sweet housewarming present for someone who prefers a cone of vanilla to a bottle of vino!
Cuisinart ICE-45 Mix It In Soft Serve 1-1/2-Quart Ice Cream Maker, White, $72.92 from Walmart
Who’s craving soft serve? If you have a little extra storage space, this machine is for you. Just add mix-ins and you’re on your way to enjoying a customized take on a classic treat in the comfort of your own kitchen. Go on, give it a swirl — er, whirl!
Dash Shaved Ice Maker, $24 from Sur La Table
Shaved ice is so refreshing during sweltering months, but it can be difficult to find in some cities. Go ahead and try making a DIY version of this popular treat using this handy machine. Want to share the love? It’s lightweight enough to bring over to a neighbor’s house or take on the go.
Zoku Quick Pop Maker, $50 from Williams Sonoma
How many different Popsicle creations can you think of in a single summer? We bet you’ll have a blast experimenting with various flavors, thanks to this reusable mold, which can turn out perfect pops in just seven minutes. And since it can prep up to nine ice pops at a time, each member of your family can create a custom dessert!
Bigfoot Ice Cream Machine, $86 from Macy’s
This ice cream machine requires a bit of (fun) physical labor! Pump the pedals for 20 minutes to prep your sweet treat, then sit back and enjoy. Kids ages 5 and up will have a blast being part of the ice cream-making process.