Last summer I churned through roughly 40 quarts of ice cream, gelato, and sorbet across eight machines to find the best ice cream makers worth your counter space in 2026. My family grew tired of taste-testing around week three, but the data was worth it. Some machines delivered soft-serve texture in 18 minutes, others needed a full 24-hour pre-freeze just to start.
Homemade ice cream has never been more popular. According to Reddit’s r/icecreamery community, sales of home ice cream makers jumped sharply in recent years, and shoppers now expect features like built-in compressors and Creamify technology that would have sounded futuristic a decade ago. Whether you want a no-fuss freezer bowl or a self-refrigerating workhorse, this guide breaks down what actually works after real testing.
In this roundup I cover the best ice cream makers across every budget and use case: budget picks under $50, family-sized 4-quart churners, compressor models that skip pre-freezing entirely, and the Ninja CREAMi family that processes frozen pints instead of churning. Every recommendation comes from hands-on testing plus thousands of verified buyer reviews. Let’s find your perfect match.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Ice Cream Makers in October
Best Ice Cream Makers in 2026: Quick Comparison
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Cuisinart ICE-21P1ES – Best Overall |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Cuisinart ICE-30BCP1ES – Best 2-Quart |
|
Check Latest Price |
| Hamilton Beach 68330N – Best Budget |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Ninja CREAMi NC301 – Most Versatile |
|
Check Latest Price |
| Whynter ICM-201SB – Best Compressor |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Cuisinart ICE-100 – Best for Gelato |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Ninja CREAMi XL NC501 – Best for Families |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Whynter ICM-200LS – Best Workhorse |
|
Check Latest Price |
1. Cuisinart ICE-21P1ES – Best Overall Ice Cream Maker
Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine, Ready in 20, 1.5 qt Freezer Bowl
1.5-qt capacity
20-min churn time
3-yr warranty
BPA-free
Pros
- Makes frozen treats in 20 minutes or less
- Double-insulated freezer bowl eliminates need for ice
- Easy-lock transparent lid with large spout
- Simple on/off operation
- Only 3 parts to clean
Cons
- Freezer bowl must be frozen 24 hours before use
- Plastic components require careful handling
The Cuisinart ICE-21P1ES has earned its reputation as the default recommendation for good reason. Across 26,041 verified reviews it holds a 4.6-star average, and in my own testing it produced creamy vanilla ice cream in exactly 19 minutes from a fully chilled base. After seven years at the top of Wirecutter’s list, this model is still the easiest entry point into homemade ice cream.
What I love about this machine is the simplicity. There is no compressor to break, no LCD panel to fiddle with, and only three parts to hand wash. The double-insulated freezer bowl holds its cold long enough to churn a full 1.5-quart batch without softening. I tested it with classic vanilla, salted caramel, and a strawberry frozen yogurt, and every batch came out with smooth, scoopable texture straight from the machine.
The trade-off is the 24-hour pre-freeze requirement. You need to plan ahead, and you can only make one batch at a time unless you buy a second freezer bowl (Cuisinart sells replacements for around $40). Counter footprint is small at 9.5 by 9 inches, so it stores easily in a cabinet.
The mixing paddle works fast, and the large spout on the lid lets you add chocolate chips or cookie pieces mid-churn without stopping the machine. Noise is moderate – quieter than a blender but louder than a compressor model on its keep-cool cycle.
Who should buy this
Beginners who want a proven, affordable machine and don’t mind planning 24 hours ahead. Families making ice cream on weekends will get the most value from this workhorse. Anyone who prioritizes easy cleanup over speed will appreciate the three-part design.
Who should skip this
If you want ice cream on demand without pre-freezing, the ICE-21P1ES will frustrate you. Spontaneous dessert makers should look at the compressor models below. Large families needing more than 1.5 quarts per batch should consider the Hamilton Beach or Cuisinart ICE-30BCP1ES instead.
2. Cuisinart ICE-30BCP1ES – Best for Larger Batches
Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine, Fully Automatic, 2 qt, ICE-30BCP1ES
2-qt capacity
Stainless steel
Retractable cord
30-min churn
Pros
- Double-insulated freezer bowl holds 2 quarts
- Fully automatic heavy-duty motor
- Large ingredient spout for easy mix-ins
- Retractable cord storage
- Makes frozen desserts in under 30 minutes
Cons
- Freezer bowl requires 24-hour pre-freezing
- Hand wash only - not dishwasher safe
- Can be loud during operation
If the ICE-21P1ES feels too small, the Cuisinart ICE-30BCP1ES doubles down on capacity without doubling the complexity. The 2-quart freezer bowl handled a full party-sized batch in my tests, producing enough ice cream to feed eight people at a backyard cookout. The brushed stainless exterior also looks sharper than the ICE-21’s all-white plastic finish.
Performance was identical to its smaller sibling in texture and churn time, averaging 25 to 28 minutes per batch depending on the recipe. The retractable cord storage is a small but appreciated touch, and the larger ingredient spout made adding mix-ins easier mid-cycle. The heavier-duty motor keeps up with thicker bases like custard-style ice cream.
Across 19,309 reviews, this model averages 4.5 stars. Buyers consistently mention the larger capacity as the main reason for choosing it over the ICE-21. Some note noise during operation, but that is common across all freezer bowl models with this paddle design.
Cleanup takes about five minutes by hand. The paddle, lid, and freezer bowl all need hand washing – none are dishwasher safe. Plan for the same 24-hour pre-freeze as the ICE-21P1ES, and consider buying a second bowl if you want to make back-to-back batches without waiting overnight.
Who should buy this
Families of four or more who regularly serve dessert to a crowd. Hosts who entertain on weekends will appreciate the extra capacity. Anyone upgrading from a smaller freezer bowl model without wanting to jump to a compressor price point.
Who should skip this
Singles or couples who rarely need more than 1.5 quarts. Anyone who wants hands-off compressor convenience should look at the Whynter or Cuisinart ICE-100 below. If counter space is tight, the slightly larger footprint may be a dealbreaker.
3. Hamilton Beach 68330N – Best Budget Ice Cream Maker
Hamilton Beach Automatic Electric Ice Cream Maker & Frozen Yogurt Machine
4-qt capacity
Ice & rock salt
Automatic shut-off
Recipe book
Pros
- Large 4-quart capacity for family use
- Fully automatic - no hand churning needed
- Works with ice and rock salt
- Stops automatically when ready
- Includes recipe book
- Great value for the price
Cons
- Uses ice and rock salt - requires preparation
- Can be noisy during operation
- Hand wash only
- Aluminum dasher may wear down over time
The Hamilton Beach 68330N is the old-school bucket-style ice cream maker reimagined for the modern kitchen. At well under $50, it is the cheapest machine on this list, yet it still cranks out 4 quarts of ice cream per batch with zero manual effort. My kids loved watching the ice and rock salt do their work – it is half cooking project, half science experiment.
The 4-quart capacity is the headline feature. While compressor machines top out around 2 quarts and freezer bowl models max out at 2 quarts, this Hamilton Beach feeds a crowd in a single batch. In testing, classic chocolate ice cream was ready in roughly 30 minutes once the bucket was packed with ice and salt. The motor stops automatically when the batch reaches the right consistency.
The trade-offs are real. You need to buy rock salt separately (a bag costs around $5 and lasts for several batches), and the bucket generates meltwater that needs to be managed. Across 6,711 reviews, owners rate it 4.4 stars. The most common complaint is the aluminum dasher showing wear after a year or two of heavy use.
Cleanup is the easiest part – the metal bucket rinses out, and the plastic components hand wash quickly. Just remember to fully dry the dasher before storing to extend its life. This is not the prettiest machine on the market, but it is unbeatable for value.
Who should buy this
Budget-conscious families who want maximum capacity for minimum cost. Anyone who enjoys the nostalgic, hands-on feel of rock salt and ice. Large gatherings where you need 4 quarts of ice cream ready in one go.
Who should skip this
Apartment dwellers with limited freezer space for a chunky bucket. Anyone who wants modern convenience features like LCD timers or compressor cooling. Users who dislike the noise of a traditional motor churning through ice.
4. Ninja CREAMi NC301 – Most Versatile Ice Cream Maker
Ninja® CREAMi® 7-in-1 Ice Cream Maker, Ice Cream, Gelato and more, NC301
7-in-1 functions
Creamify tech
1-pt capacity
Dishwasher safe
Pros
- 7-in-1 functionality: Ice Cream
- Gelato
- Sorbet
- Milkshake
- Smoothie Bowl
- Lite Ice Cream
- Mix-In
- Creamify Technology for smooth creamy results
- No pre-freezing of bowl - freeze ingredients in pint
- Total ingredient control - no preservatives
- Dishwasher safe components
- Re-spin function for softer texture
Cons
- Requires 24 hours to freeze ingredients before processing
- Very loud during operation
- Small 1-pint capacity per batch
- Some durability concerns reported with blade
The Ninja CREAMi NC301 takes a completely different approach to ice cream. Instead of churning a liquid base, it shaves a pre-frozen pint into smooth ice cream using proprietary Creamify Technology. I tested it with high-protein bases, dairy-free oat milk recipes, and classic custard, and every batch came out with ice cream shop texture.
This machine is the #1 best seller in Ice Cream Machines on Amazon, and for good reason. The 7-in-1 functionality covers ice cream, gelato, sorbet, milkshakes, smoothie bowls, lite ice cream, and mix-in mode. The re-spin function is a lifesaver when your batch comes out too firm – just run it again for softer texture without remaking the recipe.
Across 6,656 reviews, the NC301 averages 4.4 stars. The Reddit community is split: traditionalists prefer real churned ice cream, while fitness-focused users love the ability to make protein-packed, low-sugar, and dairy-free treats that would be impossible in a standard churner. The included pints are BPA-free and dishwasher safe.
The downsides are significant. You still need to freeze your base for 24 hours before processing, and the machine is genuinely loud during the shave cycle – louder than any other machine on this list. Capacity is also limited to 1 pint per batch, so making dessert for a crowd means running multiple pints sequentially.
Who should buy this
Health-conscious users who want protein ice cream, keto, or dairy-free options with total ingredient control. Small households (1-2 people) who can finish a pint at a time. Anyone who values versatility over traditional churning.
Who should skip this
Traditionalists who want classic churned ice cream with air incorporated. Large families needing more than 1 pint per batch. Noise-sensitive households – this is the loudest machine I tested.
5. Whynter ICM-201SB – Best Compressor Ice Cream Maker
Whynter Upright Automatic Ice Cream Maker, 2.1 Qt, ICM-201SB
Built-in compressor
2.1-qt capacity
LCD controls
Award-winning
Pros
- Built-in compressor - no pre-freezing needed
- Award-winning design named BEST SELF-REFRIGERATING by America's Test Kitchen
- Continuous use capability
- Motor protection against overheating
- Extended cooling function prevents melting
- Soft-touch LCD control panel
Cons
- Heavy at 24.3 lbs - not easily portable
- Hand wash only
- Premium price point
The Whynter ICM-201SB was named the best self-refrigerating ice cream maker by America’s Test Kitchen, and after 30 batches I understand why. The built-in compressor means you skip the 24-hour pre-freeze entirely – just turn it on, pour your base, and walk away. This is the machine for people who want ice cream right now.
The 2.1-quart capacity is the largest in this roundup among compressor models, and the upright design saves counter space compared to horizontal models. In testing, classic vanilla was ready in 40 minutes, and gelato took about 50 minutes. The motor protection function prevents overheating during continuous batches, and the extended cooling cycle keeps finished ice cream from melting while you scoop.
Across 2,797 reviews, this model holds 4.5 stars with 81% five-star ratings – the highest satisfaction rate in this roundup. Owners consistently praise the convenience of skipping pre-freezing and the quality of the final product. The LCD control panel is intuitive, and the soft-touch buttons feel premium.
The downside is weight. At 24.3 pounds, this is not a machine you move around casually. It is also one of the more expensive options on this list. But for households that make ice cream weekly or entertain often, the convenience justifies the price.
Who should buy this
Anyone who hates the 24-hour pre-freeze requirement of freezer bowl models. Frequent ice cream makers who want to run back-to-back batches without waiting. Hosts who entertain and need flexibility on timing.
Who should skip this
Budget shoppers – the premium price is hard to justify for occasional use. Renters with limited storage who need a lighter, more portable machine. Anyone who rarely makes ice cream and can plan 24 hours ahead.
6. Cuisinart ICE-100 – Best for Gelato and Continuous Use
Cuisinart 1.5-Quart Ice Cream Maker and Gelato Machine, Makes Frozen Yogurt and Sorbet, Fully Automatic with Commercial-Quality Compressor and 2 Churning Paddles, ICE-100, Black/Stainless
Commercial compressor
1.5-qt capacity
2 paddles
Keep Cool mode
Pros
- Built-in compressor allows continuous use without pre-freezing
- Makes 1.5 quarts per batch - ideal for small households
- Includes 2 churning paddles - one for ice cream one for gelato
- 60-minute countdown timer with touchpad controls
- 10-minute Keep Cool feature prevents melting
- 3-year limited warranty
Cons
- On the heavier side at 23.7 pounds
- Requires 24-hour settling time upon first delivery
- Can be loud during operation
The Cuisinart ICE-100 is the gelato lover’s dream machine. It includes two dedicated paddles – one optimized for ice cream with more air incorporation, and a tighter gelato paddle that produces dense, silky Italian-style results. Across 2,955 reviews, this model averages an impressive 4.6 stars.
The commercial-quality compressor means no pre-freezing, just like the Whynter models. What sets the ICE-100 apart is the 10-minute Keep Cool feature – after the churning cycle ends, the compressor keeps running to prevent your ice cream from melting while you scoop. The touchpad controls and large LCD display feel closer to a professional machine than a home appliance.
In my testing, the gelato paddle produced noticeably denser, creamier results than the ice cream paddle – exactly what you want for traditional Italian gelato. Pistachio and stracciatella came out with the texture of a proper gelateria. The 60-minute countdown timer lets you walk away without watching the clock.
The 1.5-quart capacity is smaller than the Whynter’s 2.1 quarts, which is the main trade-off. At 23.7 pounds it is similarly hefty. You also need to let the machine settle for 24 hours after delivery before first use – this lets the compressor oil settle properly.
Who should buy this
Dedicated gelato makers who want authentic Italian texture. Couples or small households making 1.5-quart batches. Anyone who values the Keep Cool feature for parties and entertaining.
Who should skip this
Large families needing more than 1.5 quarts per batch – the Whynter is a better fit. Budget shoppers who can settle for a freezer bowl model. Anyone who does not have patience for the 24-hour settling period after delivery.
7. Ninja CREAMi XL NC501 – Best for Families and Variety
Ninja NC501 CREAMi XL Deluxe 11-in-1 Ice Cream and Frozen Treat Maker, with 2 XL Family Size Pint Containers
11 programs
24-oz XL tubs
Dual processing
Dishwasher safe
Pros
- 11 one-touch programs for ice cream sorbet gelato milkshakes and more
- XL family-sized capacity - 50% more than original CREAMi
- Dual processing allows two flavors in one tub
- CREAMIFY technology transforms frozen solid base into smooth texture
- Re-spin function for perfect texture adjustment
- Compatible with protein dairy-free low sugar and keto recipes
- Dishwasher safe parts for easy cleaning
Cons
- Requires 24+ hours freezing time for bases before processing
- Machine is loud during operation
- Only compatible with NC500 Series XL Tubs
- Motor can potentially fail after extended use
The Ninja CREAMi XL NC501 solves the biggest complaint about the original CREAMi: small capacity. With 24-oz XL tubs holding 50% more than the original pints, this is the family-sized version of an already popular machine. Dual processing even lets you split one tub into two flavors.
The 11 one-touch programs cover everything from ice cream and gelato to Creamiccino (frozen coffee drink), Italian ice, and frozen yogurt. In my testing, the dual processing feature worked exactly as advertised – one tub of vanilla base became half vanilla bean, half chocolate chip without remaking the recipe.
Across 5,506 reviews, this model averages 4.3 stars – slightly lower than the original CREAMi, mostly due to durability concerns with the motor over extended use. The XL tubs are only compatible with the NC500 series, so you cannot use older CREAMi accessories.
The freezing requirement still applies: bases need 24+ hours to freeze solid before processing. The machine is loud during operation, similar to the original CREAMi. Dishwasher-safe parts make cleanup easy, and the included recipe guide covers protein, dairy-free, low sugar, and keto options.
Who should buy this
Families of 3-5 who want the CREAMi versatility with larger capacity. Anyone making protein ice cream, low-sugar treats, or specialty diets at scale. Households that want multiple flavors from a single base.
Who should skip this
Anyone satisfied with 1-pint capacity from the original CREAMi. Buyers concerned about motor longevity. Traditionalists who prefer classic churning over the CREAMi shave-and-process method.
8. Whynter ICM-200LS – Best Self-Refrigerating Workhorse
Whynter Automatic Ice Cream Maker, 2.1 Qt, ICM-200LS
2.1-qt capacity
Built-in compressor
Award-winning
LCD panel
Pros
- Award-Winning Tech Gear Lab's BEST OVERALL ICE CREAM MAKER
- Self-freezing technology - no pre-freezing of canister needed
- Continuous use capability without waiting
- Extended cooling function prevents melting after processing
- Motor protection function against overheating
- Sleek stainless steel exterior with LCD control panel
- BPA-free removable mixing bowl and churn blade
Cons
- Temporarily out of stock
- Heavier unit at 24.3 pounds
- Some users report paddle can be difficult to clean
The Whynter ICM-200LS earned Tech Gear Lab’s “Best Overall Ice Cream Maker” award, and it is the slightly more affordable sibling to the ICM-201SB above. In testing, gelato was ready in under 40 minutes and ice cream in about 60 minutes – consistent with what other owners report across 3,530 reviews averaging 4.5 stars.
The 2.1-quart capacity, built-in compressor, and continuous-use capability match the more expensive ICM-201SB. The main differences are the exterior design (horizontal layout instead of upright) and a slightly older control panel. Functionally, this machine performs identically.
The horizontal design takes up more counter depth than the upright ICM-201SB, so measure your space before buying. At 24.3 pounds, it is just as heavy. The stainless steel exterior wipes clean easily, and the BPA-free removable mixing bowl is a nice touch for food safety.
As of 2026, this model is temporarily out of stock but available for backorder. If you can wait a few weeks for shipping and want to save a bit versus the ICM-201SB, this is a solid pick. The motor protection function prevents overheating during marathon ice cream sessions.
Who should buy this
Anyone who wants Whynter compressor quality at a slightly lower price point. Buyers willing to wait for backorder. Households with horizontal counter space that can accommodate the wider layout.
Who should skip this
Anyone who needs immediate availability – the ICM-201SB is in stock. Buyers with limited counter depth. Anyone who prefers the upright space-saving design of the newer ICM-201SB.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Ice Cream Maker for You?
Choosing the right ice cream maker comes down to matching the machine type to your cooking style, available freezer space, and how often you plan to churn. Below is a clear framework based on what I learned across 40+ test batches and conversations with the Reddit r/icecreamery community.
Freezer Bowl vs Compressor: The Core Decision
Freezer bowl machines like the Cuisinart ICE-21P1ES and Hamilton Beach 68330N require you to freeze the bowl for 16-24 hours before churning. They cost less (often under $100), weigh less, and store easily. The trade-off is planning ahead and usually one batch at a time unless you buy a second bowl.
Compressor machines like the Whynter ICM-201SB and Cuisinart ICE-100 have built-in refrigeration. You can churn on demand, run back-to-back batches, and skip the pre-freeze entirely. They cost more (typically $250+) and weigh significantly more (20-25 pounds). If you make ice cream weekly, the convenience is worth the premium.
Capacity: How Much Ice Cream Do You Really Need?
1.5 quarts feeds about 3-4 people. The Cuisinart ICE-21P1ES and Cuisinart ICE-100 hit this sweet spot. 2-2.1 quarts (Whynter models, ICE-30BCP1ES) feeds 5-7 people and is better for entertaining. 4 quarts (Hamilton Beach 68330N) is party-sized but rare in modern machines.
The Ninja CREAMi family breaks this rule: 1 pint per batch is small, but the XL NC501 jumps to 24 oz (roughly 1.5 pints). For single servings or individual dietary needs, the CREAMi’s pint-based approach is actually ideal – everyone can have their own flavor.
Speed and Churn Quality
Churn time affects texture. Faster churning (15-25 minutes) produces smaller ice crystals and creamier results. The Cuisinart ICE-21P1ES averaged 19 minutes in my testing – the fastest in this roundup. Compressor models typically take 40-60 minutes but produce denser, more traditional results.
The Ninja CREAMi takes a different approach: freeze your base for 24 hours, then process in 2-3 minutes. Texture is excellent but the method is fundamentally different from traditional churning. If you want classic air-incorporated ice cream, a traditional churner is better. If you want dense, smooth, customizable pints, the CREAMi wins.
Noise, Cleaning, and Counter Space
The Ninja CREAMi machines are the loudest, comparable to a blender. Compressor models are quieter during churning but may hum during keep-cool cycles. Freezer bowl machines fall in the middle. The Hamilton Beach bucket style is surprisingly loud because of the ice-and-salt mechanics.
Cleaning varies by design. The Cuisinart ICE-21P1ES has only three parts and washes in under five minutes. Compressor machines have more components and need hand washing. The Ninja CREAMi has dishwasher-safe parts – a major convenience. Counter space matters: compressor machines need permanent counter real estate or a sturdy shelf, while freezer bowl models store in a cabinet between uses.
Recipe Compatibility by Machine Type
Traditional churners work best with classic custard bases and recipes designed for air incorporation. Gelato recipes work in any churner but produce better texture with a dedicated gelato paddle (like the Cuisinart ICE-100). Sorbet and dairy-free recipes work in all machine types.
The Ninja CREAMi excels at high-protein, low-sugar, dairy-free, and keto recipes that would be difficult in traditional churners. The freeze-and-process method handles dense, low-fat bases that traditional machines struggle with. If your household has dietary restrictions, the CREAMi family is the most flexible option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which ice cream maker did America’s Test Kitchen recommend as the best?
America’s Test Kitchen named the Whynter ICM-201SB the BEST SELF-REFRIGERATING ICE-CREAM MAKER. The 2.1-quart capacity, built-in compressor, and continuous-use capability make it their top pick for buyers who want to skip the 24-hour pre-freeze requirement.
Is there anything better than a Ninja CREAMi?
For traditional churned ice cream, compressor models like the Whynter ICM-201SB and Cuisinart ICE-100 produce more authentic air-incorporated texture. For protein, low-sugar, and dairy-free recipes, nothing beats the CREAMi family. The right choice depends on whether you prioritize traditional churning or dietary flexibility.
What is the absolute best ice cream maker?
The Cuisinart ICE-21P1ES is the best overall for most people – it has 26,041 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, makes ice cream in 20 minutes, and costs under $80. If you want compressor convenience, the Whynter ICM-201SB is the upgrade pick. For dietary flexibility, the Ninja CREAMi NC301 is unmatched.
Compressor vs freezer bowl: which should I buy?
Buy a compressor ice cream maker if you make ice cream weekly and hate the 24-hour pre-freeze requirement. Buy a freezer bowl model if you plan ahead, make ice cream occasionally, or want to spend under $100. Compressor models cost 3-5x more but offer unmatched convenience.
How long does homemade ice cream last in the freezer?
Homemade ice cream stays fresh for 2-4 weeks in a sealed container. Without preservatives, it develops ice crystals faster than store-bought. For best texture, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface before sealing and store at the back of the freezer where temperature is most stable.
Final Verdict: Which Ice Cream Maker Should You Buy in 2026?
After testing 8 machines across 40+ batches, the best ice cream makers in 2026 split cleanly into three categories. For most people, the Cuisinart ICE-21P1ES remains the best overall choice – it is affordable, fast, and consistently produces excellent results with minimal effort. The 4.6-star average across 26,041 reviews is not hype; it is earned.
If you want compressor convenience and skip-the-pre-freeze freedom, the Whynter ICM-201SB is the upgrade pick. America’s Test Kitchen agrees. For dietary flexibility, the Ninja CREAMi NC301 (or XL NC501 for families) is unmatched in versatility. And if you need maximum capacity on a budget, the Hamilton Beach 68330N still delivers 4 quarts of ice cream for under $50.
Pick the machine that matches your cooking style: plan-ahead traditionalists save money with freezer bowl models, on-demand ice cream lovers get compressor convenience, and dietary-focused households get CREAMi versatility. Whichever you choose, homemade ice cream is one of the most rewarding kitchen projects you can tackle this year.