Summer is the perfect time to indulge in homemade ice cream, sorbet, or frozen treats that keep everyone cool and refreshed. The Ninja® CREAMi® XL makes it easy to craft your favorite flavors right in your kitchen, with the flexibility to customize ingredients and textures for every taste.
Whether you’re craving a dairy-free sorbet or a rich, chocolate-packed ice cream, this versatile machine can turn almost anything into a delicious summer treat. Follow this step-by-step guide to create your own refreshing dessert that’s sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Our top pick at a glance
Ninja® CREAMi® XL 11-in-1 Ice Cream Maker
- ✔ Dimensions: Not specified
- ✔ Weight: Not specified
- ✔ Color: Navy
Ninja Creami XL 11-in-1 Ice Cream Maker with XL Capacity, NC601
- Versatile Ice Cream Maker: Creates ice cream, sorbet, gelato, and more
- Dairy-Free & Smoothie Options: Includes dairy-free, smoothie bowl, and CreamiFit programs
- Family-Sized Capacity: Two 24-oz tubs for larger servings
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Preparing Your Base
Start by choosing your base ingredients. For traditional ice cream, mix heavy cream, milk, sugar, and flavorings like vanilla or cocoa powder. For dairy-free options, use coconut milk or almond milk combined with sweeteners and fruit purees.
Pour your prepared mixture into one of the Ninja® CREAMi® XL’s 24-oz tubs. You can make two different flavors in each tub by processing one base with two different mix-ins later on, allowing for variety in your summer menu.
Freezing the Base
Once your base is in the tub, place the lid securely on top. Freeze the mixture for at least 24 hours until it’s solid. The longer it stays frozen, the better the final texture will be, especially for smooth, creamy results using the CREAMi® technology.
Tip: For best results, ensure the mixture is evenly frozen without ice crystals for a silky finish.
Processing and Creating Your Summer Treat
Remove the frozen tub from the freezer and load it into the Ninja® CREAMi® XL. Select the appropriate program—Ice Cream, Sorbet, or Gelato—based on your desired texture. Press start and watch as the machine transforms your frozen base into a creamy delight in minutes.
If you prefer an even creamier texture, hit the Re-Spin button after the initial process for a smoother scoop. You can then add mix-ins like chocolate chips, fruit chunks, or nuts during the process or after for a more textured treat.
Adding Mix-Ins and Customizing Flavors
For a personalized touch, process one base with your chosen mix-ins. For example, fold in fresh strawberries or mini chocolate chips during the Re-Spin phase. Use the dual-flavor capability by processing two different bases in the same tub, creating unique flavor combinations to satisfy everyone’s summer cravings.
Tip: For dairy-free or low-sugar options, adjust your ingredients accordingly before freezing.
Serving and Storing Your Homemade Ice Cream
Once processed, serve immediately for the best texture or store the treats in the freezer for later. Keep the lid on the tubs to prevent ice crystals from forming. The XL capacity ensures plenty for the whole family or a summer gathering, making it your go-to device for all your frozen dessert needs.
Remember to clean the tubs and paddle after use—top-rack dishwasher safe—to keep your Ninja® CREAMi® XL in top shape for endless summer treats.
More Details on Our Top Picks
Ninja® CREAMi® XL 11-in-1 Ice Cream Maker
The Ninja® CREAMi® XL is a versatile and easy-to-use ice cream maker perfect for creating personalized frozen treats. Its family-sized capacity and advanced technology make summer indulgence simple and fun.
Pros:
- Creates various frozen treats including dairy-free options
- Large 24-oz capacity for family servings
- Easy to clean and operate
Cons:
- Requires 24-hour freezing ahead of use
- Limited to processing two flavors per tub at once
- Can be bulky for small kitchens
Best for: Families or anyone who loves making custom ice cream and sorbet at home
Not ideal for: Those seeking quick, no-prep frozen treats or limited kitchen space
Bottom line: A versatile, family-sized ice cream maker perfect for DIY summer treats.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
