Summer is the perfect time to indulge in cool, refreshing treats made right at home. The Ninja CREAMi XL 11-in-1 Ice Cream Maker makes it easy to craft personalized frozen desserts, from creamy ice cream to fruity sorbet and dairy-free options.
With its large capacity and versatile programs, you can whip up delightful summer snacks for the whole family—no more store-bought options needed!
Our top pick at a glance
Ninja CREAMi XL 11-in-1 Ice Cream Maker
- ✔ Included Tubs: 2 large 24 oz
- ✔ Programs: Multiple, including dairy-free and smoothie
- ✔ Color Option: Navy
Ninja® CREAMi® XL 11-in-1 Ice Cream Maker for Ice Cream, Sorbet, Gelato & More, Now Featuring Dariy Free, Smoothie Bowl, and CreamiFit™, Includes (2) Family-Sized 24.oz Tubs, Navy, NC601
NEW FUNCTIONALITY: Turn almost anything into crave-worthy ice cream, sorbet, frozen yogurt, and more. Now featuring dairy-free, smoothie...
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Getting Started: Preparing Your Frozen Base
Before you begin, ensure your two 24-ounce tubs are pre-frozen for at least 24 hours. This step is essential to achieve the best texture and consistency for your frozen treats.
Choose your ingredients—whether ice cream, sorbet, or a dairy-free alternative—and mix them in a bowl. For creamy ice cream, use ingredients like milk, cream, sugar, and flavorings. For sorbet or dairy-free options, blend fruit with juice or milk substitutes.
Pour your mixed ingredients into the tubs, leaving some space at the top for expansion. Seal the lids securely and freeze until ready to churn.
Using the Ninja CREAMi XL to Make Your Summer Treat
Once your bases are frozen solid, remove the tubs from the freezer. Place one tub into the Ninja CREAMi XL and select the desired program—Ice Cream, Sorbet, Gelato, or Smoothie Bowl.
Press start and wait as the machine processes your mixture into a perfectly textured frozen dessert. You can customize the texture by running the process multiple times or using the CreamiFit feature for a thicker or creamier result.
For dairy-free or smoothie bowls, follow the same steps, choosing the appropriate program for the best consistency. Once finished, serve immediately or store in the freezer for later.
Tips for Perfect Summer Frozen Treats
- Experiment with flavor combinations—try adding fresh fruit, chocolate chips, or nuts after churning for added texture.
- Adjust the texture by running the machine longer for softer ice cream or shorter for a firmer consistency.
- Clean the tubs, lids, and paddle in the dishwasher after each use for quick cleanup and maintenance.
- Pre-freezing the tubs is key; plan ahead to ensure your treats are ready when the craving hits.
- For dairy-free recipes, use coconut milk or almond milk to enhance creaminess.
Serving and Storing Your Frozen Creations
Serve your homemade frozen desserts directly from the machine for immediate enjoyment. For firmer treats, transfer them into airtight containers and store in the freezer for up to a week.
To soften frozen treats before serving, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes or microwave for a brief, gentle thawing.
Decorate with fresh fruit, sprinkles, or a drizzle of chocolate to elevate your summer desserts.
More Details on Our Top Picks
Ninja CREAMi XL 11-in-1 Ice Cream Maker
The Ninja CREAMi XL simplifies making personalized frozen treats at home. Its large capacity and multiple programs make it perfect for family gatherings and hot summer days.
Pros:
- Large 2 x 24 oz capacity
- Includes dairy-free and smoothie bowl options
- Customizable textures and flavors
- Dishwasher-safe parts for easy cleaning
Cons:
- Bulky design may be hard to store in small kitchens
- Requires pre-freezing of tubs before use
- Limited to specific recipes and mix-ins
Best for: Families who enjoy making their own frozen desserts and summer snacks
Not ideal for: Small kitchens with limited storage space or users seeking more recipe flexibility
Bottom line: A versatile and family-friendly frozen treat maker for hot summer days.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
