After making homemade ice cream in an ice cream maker, it's important to store it properly to maintain its texture and flavor. Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container like a metal or plastic canister with a tight-fitting lid. Press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the ice cream to prevent freezer burn. Store the ice cream in the coldest part of the freezer, typically towards the back, to prevent it from melting or developing ice crystals. Homemade ice cream can typically last for up to 2-3 months in the freezer, but it's best to consume it within the first month for the best taste and texture.
Best Ice Cream Makers of September 2024
1
Rating is 5 out of 5
CUISINART Ice Cream Maker, Ice Cream and Frozen Yogurt Machine, 2-Qt. Double-Insulated Freezer Bowl, Silver, ICE30BCP1
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SUPERIOR FUNCTIONALITY: This brushed stainless steel fully automatic heavy-duty motor makes frozen desserts or drinks in as little as 20 minutes
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MUST-HAVE FEATURES: Large ingredient spout for easily adding favorite mix-ins including a retractable cord storage that keeps countertops clutter free
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INCLUDED: Comes with replacement lid, a double insulated freezer bowl that holds up to 2 quarts of frozen dessert, paddle, instructions and a recipe book
2
Rating is 4.9 out of 5
Ninja NC299AMZ CREAMi Ice Cream Maker, for Gelato, Mix-ins, Milkshakes, Sorbet, Smoothie Bowls & More, 7 One-Touch Programs, with (1) Pint Container & Lid, Compact Size, Perfect for Kids, Matte Black
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FUNCTIONALITY: With the Ninja CREAMi, you can transform everyday ingredients into ice cream, gelato, smoothie bowls, milkshakes, and more..Voltage: 120V-, 60Hz, Power : 800 Watts
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EASY TO USE: Easy-to-use functionality allows for the whole family to enjoy making frozen treats together.
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MIX-INS: Customize your flavor and texture by mixing in your favorite chocolate, nuts, candy, fruit, and more to personalize any CREAMi treat.
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RE-SPIN: Select the Re-spin function if, after processing, you want your processed treat softer and creamier.
3
Rating is 4.8 out of 5
Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine, 2 Quart, Cool Creations Frozen Yogurt, Gelato, Sorbet Maker, LCD Screen and Timer, Stainless Steel, ICE-70P1
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SUPERIOR FUNCTION: Create two quarts of delicious frozen treats in just 20 minutes with an improved paddle and faster processing time
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CAPACITY: Makes 2-quarts of your favorite ice cream, frozen yogurt, gelato or sorbet
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MUST-HAVE FEATURES: LCD screen, 3 settings with multiple speeds and a countdown timer with auto shutoff
4
Rating is 4.7 out of 5
Elite Gourmet Old Fashioned 6 Quart Vintage Wood Bucket Electric Ice Cream Maker Machine Appalachian, Bonus Classic Die-Cast Hand Crank for Churning, Uses Ice and Rock Salt Churns Ice Cream in Minute
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6-QUART CAPACITY: Freeze up to 6 Quarts of cold and creamy ice cream, gelato, frozen yogurt or sorbet. Perfect for party time, snack time, barbeques, picnics and big events - enough to feed everyone!
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EASY 3 STEP PROCESS: 1) Mix your favorite ingredients and place in canister, 2) assemble the unit and add ice + rock salt, 3) plug in and turn On.
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WHISPER QUIET OPERATION: The electric motor conveniently locks onto the bucket, making sure all parts are interlocked for safe and quiet operation.
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RECIPES - Use your own recipes, or follow the recipes included in the manual to get started making delicious and creamy ice cream without unnecessary additives and preservatives of store-bought ice cream.
5
Rating is 4.6 out of 5
Cuisinart Soft Serve Ice Cream Machine- Mix It In Ice Cream Maker for Frozen Yogurt, Sorbet, Gelato, Drinks 1.5 Quart, White, ICE-48
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SUPERIOR FUNCTION: The Cuisinart professional-quality soft serve, yogurt, sorbet, sherbet frozen drinks and ice cream maker is fully automatic with double-insulated freezer bowl and produces 1.5 quarts of ice-cream in just 20 minutes - no chemicals, salt, or ice required
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EASY TO USE: Simply pull out one, two or three of the levers to add the mix-ins of your choice, then pull down the handle to dispense the soft serve ice cream directly into cones or bowls with an ice cream swirl like an authentic soft-serve machine
6
Rating is 4.5 out of 5
Elite Gourmet EIM-924L, 4 Qt. Electric Motorized Ice Cream Maker Ice & Rock Salt, 4Qt. Freezing Canister, Creamy Ice Cream, Gelato, Frozen Yogurt, or Sorbet, Recipe Booklet
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Hand-crafted solid Pine wood bucket.
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Great for barbeques, family parties and picnics
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Makes fresh ice cream in just 40 minutes.
7
Rating is 4.4 out of 5
Hamilton Beach Electric Automatic Ice Cream Maker & Frozen Yogurt Machine, Makes Custard, Sorbet, Gelato and Sherbet, 4 Quart, White
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MAKES ENOUGH ICE CREAM FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY: The ice cream maker's large 4 quart capacity is the perfect size for making ice cream and other frozen desserts for family, friends and special occasions.
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PREPARE A VARIETY OF FROZEN TREATS: Easily prepare homemade ice cream, frozen yogurt, sorbet, gelato, sherbet and custard with your own fresh ingredients in our 1.5 quart homemade ice cream maker.
8
Rating is 4.3 out of 5
Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine, 1.5 Quart Sorbet, Frozen Yogurt Maker, Double Insulated, White, ICE-21P1
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SUPERIOR FUNCTION: The new patent-pending mixing paddle makes frozen treats in 20 minutes or less
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COOL FEATURE: Double-insulated freezer bowl eliminates the need for ice
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CAPACITY: Makes up to 1-½-quarts of your favorite ice cream or frozen yogurt
How to store homemade ice cream in individual servings?
- Pour the homemade ice cream into small individual containers or bowls with airtight lids. Make sure the containers are freezer-safe.
- Cover the surface of the ice cream with plastic wrap before sealing the containers to prevent ice crystals from forming on the surface.
- Label each container with the flavor and date of preparation to easily identify them in the freezer.
- Store the individual servings in the coldest part of the freezer to maintain the texture and flavor of the ice cream.
- When ready to serve, remove the desired number of servings from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly before scooping. Enjoy!
How to prevent homemade ice cream from absorbing odors in the freezer?
To prevent homemade ice cream from absorbing odors in the freezer, follow these tips:
- Store the ice cream in airtight containers: Transfer the homemade ice cream to airtight containers or freezer-safe bags before placing them in the freezer. This will help seal out any odors from contaminating the ice cream.
- Use odor-absorbing materials: Place a box of baking soda or a bowl of coffee grounds in the freezer to absorb any odors that may be present. Change these odor-absorbing materials every few months to ensure they remain effective.
- Clean the freezer regularly: Regularly clean and defrost your freezer to prevent the buildup of food particles and odors. This will help maintain a fresh environment for storing your homemade ice cream.
- Wrap the containers: Cover the airtight containers with an additional layer of plastic wrap or aluminum foil to provide extra protection against odors that may be present in the freezer.
- Keep the ice cream away from strong-smelling foods: Store the homemade ice cream away from strong-smelling foods, such as garlic or onions, to prevent the ice cream from absorbing their odors. Consider placing the ice cream on a separate shelf or in a designated area of the freezer.
How to store homemade ice cream if it becomes too hard?
If homemade ice cream becomes too hard after being stored in the freezer, here are some tips to help soften it for easier scooping:
- Take the container of ice cream out of the freezer and let it sit on the counter for a few minutes to soften slightly.
- Use a sturdy spoon or ice cream scoop to break up the hardened ice cream and mix it around. This will help soften it and make it easier to scoop.
- For a quicker solution, you can microwave the container of ice cream for 10-20 seconds at a time, stirring in between, until it reaches your desired consistency. Be careful not to overheat the ice cream, as it can quickly melt and lose its creamy texture.
- Another trick is to transfer the ice cream into a resealable plastic bag and gently press it to break up the hardened chunks. Then, return it back to the container and place it back in the freezer.
By following these tips, you should be able to soften your homemade ice cream and make it easier to enjoy.
How to store homemade ice cream with mix-ins like cookies or candies?
- Transfer the homemade ice cream with mix-ins into an airtight container. Make sure to use a container that is large enough to hold the ice cream without squishing the mix-ins.
- Place a piece of plastic wrap directly on top of the ice cream to prevent ice crystals from forming on the surface.
- Seal the container tightly with a lid and store it in the freezer. Make sure the freezer temperature is set to the recommended temperature for storing ice cream (around 0°F or -18°C).
- When serving the ice cream, allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly before scooping. This will make it easier to scoop and enjoy the mix-ins.
- It's best to consume the homemade ice cream within a few weeks to ensure the mix-ins remain fresh and flavorful. Over time, the mix-ins may lose their crunchiness or become soggy if stored for too long.