Summer is the perfect time to indulge in cool, creamy treats that beat the heat. With the Ninja CREAMi XL, you can create your own ice cream, sorbet, and gelato at home, tailored to your family’s favorite flavors and textures.
Imagine scooping up a dairy-free berry sorbet or a rich chocolate gelato, all made fresh in your kitchen. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to help you whip up your summer favorites using this versatile ice cream maker.
Our top pick at a glance
Ninja CREAMi XL 11-in-1 Ice Cream Maker
- ✔ Weight: Approximately 15 lbs
- ✔ Material: Plastic and stainless steel
- ✔ Warranty: Limited warranty included
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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Preparing Your Base and Freezing the Tubs
Start by choosing your ingredients—whether it’s fruit, dairy, or a dairy-free alternative. Prepare your mixture according to your recipe, keeping in mind the texture you desire.
Pour your mixture into the two included 24-ounce tubs, leaving some space for expansion. Place the filled tubs in your freezer for at least 24 hours before use to ensure they are properly frozen and ready for churning.
Using the Ninja CREAMi XL to Make Your Frozen Treats
Once your tubs are thoroughly frozen, remove them from the freezer. Pop one tub into the Ninja CREAMi XL, ensuring it fits securely.
Select the appropriate program—Ice Cream, Sorbet, Gelato, or Dairy-Free—and let the machine do its magic. You can customize the texture using the CreamiFit feature for creamier or more scoopable results.
Repeat with the second tub for different flavors or textures, making full use of the large capacity for family-sized batches.
Serving and Customizing Your Summer Frozen Treats
Once the cycle completes, open the lid and check your frozen dessert. If you’d like it softer, you can re-spin or add a splash of milk to adjust the texture.
Serve immediately for a soft-serve consistency, or freeze for an additional hour for a firmer scoop. Add toppings like fresh fruit, nuts, or syrups to elevate your treat.
Cleaning is a breeze—simply wash the tubs, lids, and paddle in the dishwasher or hand wash with warm soapy water.
Tips for Perfect Summer Treats
- Pre-freeze your tubs at least 24 hours before making your mixture.
- Experiment with dairy-free options like coconut milk or fruit purees for refreshing sorbets.
- Use ripe, fresh fruit for the best flavor in your sorbets and gelatos.
- Don’t overfill the tubs—leave room for expansion during freezing.
- Adjust the texture using the CreamiFit feature to suit your preference.
More Details on Our Top Picks
Ninja CREAMi XL 11-in-1 Ice Cream Maker
The Ninja CREAMi XL offers a large capacity and multiple programs, making it easy to create customized ice cream, sorbet, and gelato for the whole family. Its easy-to-clean design and dairy-free options make it a summer kitchen essential.
Pros:
- Large family-sized capacity
- Includes dairy-free and smoothie options
- Customizable textures and flavors
- Dishwasher-safe parts
Cons:
- Bulky for small kitchens
- Requires pre-freezing tubs
- Limited to specific recipes and mix-ins
Best for: Families who love homemade frozen treats and variety
Not ideal for:
Bottom line: A versatile, family-friendly ice cream maker perfect for summer fun at home.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
