“Haaaaaaaaaa make ice cream, in the Famoplay refrigerator, soooo delicious, strawberry, chocolate, and vanilla.” Though I have few memories of my childhood, that ad from 2001 plays in my mind as vividly as if it aired yesterday. I can picture seven-year-old me glued to the black Sony TV in my parents’ living room, daydreaming about having my own ice cream maker at home. Alas, that wish never came true.
Fast forward to today, 25 years later, and I, now 32, finally got a chance to experiment with an ice cream maker. But this isn’t just any machine; it’s the Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl, a marvel that easily eclipses the nostalgic Famoplay refrigerator. It might not be a necessity, but it is a whimsical gadget that has proven to be a true delight.
✅ Buy Them If…
- You have the patience to wait a day for the ice cream.
- You want a fun cooking activity to do with your little ones.
- You have space and can spare 350 euros for a luxury item.
❌ Don’t Buy It If…
- You want ice cream available instantly.
- You have a compact kitchen or limited storage space.
- You prefer a quiet operation.
The Essentials in 30 Seconds
The Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl is essentially an upgraded version of the Ninja CREAMi, featuring a dispensing system similar to those found in frozen yogurt shops. Additionally, it includes more programs tailored for making soft ice cream recipes. The basic operation remains the same: prepare your recipe, freeze it in a container, and let this device work its magic.
One standout feature is the lever system that allows you to extract soft-serve ice cream directly into a cone or tub, adding a touch of fun to the experience.
Our Experience with the Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl
How It Works: Unlike typical ice cream makers that churn and cool simultaneously, the Ninja CREAMi processes pre-frozen solid blocks. Its unique blade, known as the Creamerizer, scrapes and combs the frozen treat, allowing for various textures. However, be prepared for a noisy operation, not ideal during nap times.
Is your craving for ice cream demanding immediate gratification? Well, keep in mind that making ice cream requires some planning; the tubs must be frozen for at least a day. Thus, it’s less about “I want ice cream now,” and more about “Let’s prepare ice cream for tomorrow.”
Don’t forget you might need a blender as well. The Ninja CREAMi doesn’t blend but can mix hard ingredients into pre-processed bases.
The Recipes
The Ninja CREAMi comes with a small recipe booklet, and TikTok is filled with plenty of ideas. I mainly stick to two modes: the ice cream and frozen yogurt settings. The possibilities are endless, limited only by the ingredients you have on hand.
- Quick chocolate ice cream? Simply mix 100 ml of heavy cream, 200 ml of whole milk, 70 grams of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder, and a teaspoon of vanilla extract.
How Do the Ice Creams Turn Out?
The results are spectacular! Provided the recipe is followed closely, the flavors and textures are incredible. While they might not fully replace artisan ice cream, they are undeniably impressive and cost-effective for those who love this dessert. Bonus: the “Mix-in” option allows you to add doughy bits, turning desserts into something truly magical.
- However, keep in mind that your first attempt may not always be a hit. For example, my plum ice cream was a total flop.
The Grace of the Lever
For textures like frozen yogurt, the lever serves to help you dispense your creation. While it generally works seamlessly, there may be hiccups if the mixture is too dense.
The Cleaning Process
Cleaning is essential and involves multiple parts, which is something to consider. Ensure all components—especially the lid and blade—are securely stored to avoid misplacing them. Thorough cleaning, especially in tricky areas, is paramount.
Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl: Final Thoughts
The Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl is a dream come true, delivering delicious outcomes while requiring some patience. However, size, noise level, and plastic components can be downsides. It’s not an essential kitchen appliance, but it sure can elevate family fun during summer.
Do I Recommend It?
The decision is straightforward: if you don’t envision using it regularly, reconsider your investment. At 350 euros, it won’t fit everyone’s budget or storage space. But if you love creating homemade ice cream and want a fun kitchen project, then definitely go for it! This machine can add plenty of joy to summertime activities.
Images | Xataka