Children love ice cream! And they will find a way to have a slurp of it every time they have a sweet tooth. Therefore, buying them an ice cream maker that will suit their age is an excellent decision.

For younger children, a non-powered without moving parts is the best option for them so that they operate it smoothly; however, some retro-styled appliances are suitable for younger children when an adult is supervising.

Having an ice cream maker at home will allow you to churn whatever flavour of ice cream strikes your fantasy, all in the comfort of your home. It is also an excellent activity for your little ones cooking in the kitchen, too.

Before you get to know some of the best ice cream maker, here are the things you should consider when buying an ice cream maker.

What To Consider When Buying An Ice Cream Maker

To help you choose the right ice cream maker that will match your needs as well to your children, there are essential factors to consider before making a purchase.

Ease of use

Since you are looking for an ice cream maker where your children can enjoy, the model must be easy to use.

The main factor that determines the ease of use of an ice cream maker is clearly whether it is or not; it is a compressor-style machine. There are a few things, which you can do to ease of use.

For electric frozen bowl modes, it comes with an extra bowl or one that freezes faster than the other, making it easier to prepare when your children want to start making ice cream.

If you want the traditional method, the ice and salt ice cream makers, the motor will make a big difference in the workload of ice cream making.

Aside from the compressor, other features can contribute to the ease of use. Having intuitive digital displays will help you figure out how to work on the machine and get the settings where you want them.

An easy bowl and lightweight to lift out will make the transfer of ice cream to the bowl much easier once done.

Cost

There is a vast difference in the cost between a simple ice cream maker and a high-end compressor-style ice cream maker.

Since you are just looking for an ice cream maker for your kids, maybe an old-fashioned ice cream maker costing around $30 will be good enough, but make sure to be prepared for the extra work involved in making homemade ice cream using this type of ice cream maker.

But if you want something bigger and more advanced, it will cost you around $100 to $200.

Well, most homemade ice cream makers will be happy to a machine that falls somewhere in the middle. You can find an ice cream maker machine under $100, mostly ice/salt and frozen bowl features.

But, if you can pay more, you can look for a compressor ice cream that costs around $200.

Just remember the principle: The main trade-offs for the cheaper product are speed and convenience, but some people prefer the consistency of the ice cream produced by high-end compressor models.

Speed

Another feature to look for is the speediness of the appliance that will mix your ice cream.

Consider how long your kids will wait for something they are working on to be ready. If you want ice cream the same day you decided to make it, therefore, you need a compressor ice cream maker.

All other ice cream makers require some lead time to make it, so if you are a planner and don’t mind having to plan, then investing on these types of ice cream makers is your best option.

Capacity

If your kid will be making homemade ice cream just for fun, buying them a large capacity machine is crucial, especially if they go with one of the types of ice cream makers that need a long process.

Conveniently, some of the ice cream makers for children comes in small capacity only, making it perfect for their day to day activity.

Have an idea of how much ice cream you and your toddler want to make, so that you get an idea of the model you are choosing.

Consistency

Though younger children won’t consider this as an essential feature, as a parent, you need to make sure that the texture and consistency of the ice cream are good.

The flavor of the ice cream largely depends on the ingredients you use; however, the surface has something to do with how the ice cream maker works.

Some of the high-end models are costly because they produce smooth and creamy ice cream that can’t be beaten easily. Also, compressor ice cream makers are known to have smoother ice cream than other types of ice cream makers.

On the other hand, ice/salt and electric frozen bowl machines will allow you some extra control over the texture and consistency of the ice cream by providing different options for dasher speed.

Remember that slower speeds will produce thicker ice cream, while faster speeds will make lighter and thinner ice cream. Besides, the speedier rate will also keep the ice crystals from building up, producing a more refined texture.

Noise

Obviously, any appliances equipped with an electric motor is expected to produce loud sounds.

So, if you and your kids are sensitive to noisy machines, then this is another essential factor to look for. It is best to check and read reviews before buying.

Many customers are quick to pinpoint on their review of how loud the ice cream maker became when it began working. It helps other buyers to make a more informed choice.

Ease of cleaning

Every kitchen appliance you use to make delicious food needs to be cleaned after use, and so ice cream makers are.

If cleaning up is one of your least favorite household chores, then you should consider the clean up involved in the model you are planning to buy.

Compressor models with a removable bowl are easier to clean than those with permanently installed ones. And obviously, smaller ones are easy to clean than the bigger ones.

Reading reviews is probably the best source if you want to have a head’s up on how difficult the specific model of ice cream model to be cleaned.

Appearance

For some buyers, aesthetics more matter than the product’s functionality.

So, if you are someone who wants your appliances to look good or match your interior kitchen designs, then you should take some time to look for options which one you like best, aesthetically.

Appearance is pleasing to young children; they want the ice cream maker to be colourful and stylish that can also fit your kitchen style. Therefore, you don’t have to worry about considering it as an eyesore on the kitchen counter.

Extra frozen bowl

Some frozen bowl ice cream makers come with an extra frozen bowl, or they sell it separately. It can make a difference in how easy to start making ice cream each time your children are ready to make for another batch.

Bell

This cute ready bell will let you know once the ice cream is done and ready to serve. Your kids will also love it because they will look forward to hearing from it, giving them the signal that the ice cream they made is ready to serve.

Stay cool function

To save you from the hassle of transferring your ice cream once it is done, having the stay-cool function will assure you that the ice cream is still okay even if it sits there for a couple of hours.

Hardness option

Different settings allow you to choose your preferred thickness of the ice cream. It must produce a consistent texture and consistency throughout.

Cooldown function

If the ice cream maker you bought is the compressor model type; therefore, it is equipped with a cooldown function that allows you to get started making the ice cream.

Digital display

Having a digital display will allow you to choose the settings and checking the temperature much more comfortable.

Here Are The 7 Best Ice Cream Makers For Kids

Cuisinart ICE-21 1.5 Quart Ice Cream Maker

Capacity: 1 ½ quart

Your little ones can enjoy making ice cream whenever they want it since this Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker can make their favourite frozen yoghurt in just 20 minutes or less.

It is because this machine is fully automated, add your ingredients to the bowl, press ON, and let the machine do its job! You can turn your ingredients into healthy and delicious sweet treats in just a snap.

The best feature of this ice cream maker machine is the easy-lock transparent lid with a large spout that helps you add the ingredients mess-free and straightforward.

It also comes with a double-insulated freezer bowl to eliminate the hassle of getting more and more ice to keep its cold temperature. Well, thanks to its double-wall feature that keeps the bowl cool, creating a fast and even drying.

Pros:

  • It comes in 4 different colours
  • Large capacity up to 1.5 quart
  • Made with heavy-duty motor for faster mixing
  • Affordable

Cons:

  • Insufficient freezing capacity
  • Needs to be plugged in the right power

Nostalgia Electric Wood Bucket Ice Cream Maker

Capacity: 4 quarts

The Nostalgia Electric Wood Bucket Ice Cream Maker can make up to four quarts of delicious ice cream in just 20 minutes.

It features a locking motor mount, an easy-to-clean bucket, and a 4-quart aluminum canister so that you can produce high-quality ice cream even at the comfort of your home.

However, you need to layer this device with ice and salt because it does not come with a freezer bowl, but it can pose an additional learning activity for children.

This ice cream maker comes with a see-through lid so that you can store your leftover ice cream. Its lining features fully plastic construction, wherein it wipes away messes with ease.

The device makes it easier to add all the ingredients to your ice cream at any stage and allows the electric motor to do the rest. Thanks to its durable churn paddle that creates creamy homemade ice cream.

Pros:

  • Makes four quarts of ice cream
  • Aesthetic design
  • Old fashioned design
  • Comes with a see-through lid

Cons:

  • Does not come with a freezer bowl

Hamilton Beach 68330N Automatic Ice Cream Maker

Capacity: 4 quarts

Using this ice cream maker from Hamilton, your kids can now enjoy making homemade ice cream, sherbet, frozen yogurt, and gelato in your home.

Just toss the ingredients, sit back, and let the machine does the job for you. It comes with a smart design to make it easy to use, especially for young children who are just beginners.

The ice cream maker machine comes with an easy-lock lid that easily fits on top and locks in place with a quick turn.

You don’t need to spend time on the internet browsing for delicious recipes since this unit comes with over 20 recipes that you can try.

It can make 4 quarts of ice cream, which is the perfect size for families and some important occasions.

The machine will automatically stop once the ice cream is ready to serve. No stirring required.

Pros:

  • Recipes are included in the packaging
  • Comes with an easy-lock lid
  • 4-quart capacity
  • Easy to use and clean

Cons:

  • It creates loud sounds when working

Cuisinart ICE-30BCPI Ice Cream Maker

Capacity: 2 quarts

If you are looking for an ice cream maker with a minimalist design, then this ice cream maker is your best option.

It comes with an attractive brushed metal exterior that is available in two colors: red and silver.

This model from Cuisinart can churn ice cream in as fast as 25 minutes, featuring a double-insulated freezer bowl that is easy to clean and comes with an instruction manual.

This machine is compact, measuring eight inches square and eleven inches tall, which makes it perfect if you have a small kitchen. It also has a heavy-duty motor that can make drinks, in addition to making ice cream for desserts.

Using the instruction manual that comes with the unit, you can make different desserts, such as ice cream, frozen yogurt, gelato, sherbet, and many more.

This stainless steel device is easy to clean and can be controlled using a single dial for added features, which is ideal for kids to make ice cream at home.

Pros:

  • Features double-insulated freezer bowl
  • Designed using a brushed stainless-steel housing for simplicity
  • A KitchenAid stand mixer is included in the packaging

Cons:

  • Produce loud sound while working

Immergood Stainless Steel Ice Cream Maker

Capacity: 6 quarts

If you are looking for a traditional yet influential ice cream makers available in the market today, then this ice cream maker form Immergood is a perfect choice.

It is designed with the classic ice cream maker and is fully manual wherein it is operated by the hand crank found on the side of the unit.

The exterior design of the machine is made from leak-free fiberglass, and the cogs connected to the hand crank are made from high-quality stainless steel, so you no longer need to worry about rust or internal damage.

The cogs are outlined with wear brushes, giving you and your children an effortless ice cream experience every time you want to make one.

The good thing about this ice cream maker is that it comes with a 3-year warranty, giving you the best value for your money.

Pros:

  • Excellent quality and durable
  • Makes ice cream quickly (20 minutes or less)
  • Large capacity
  • Comes with a 3-year warranty

Cons:

  • It is expensive

Nostalgia Electric Ice Cream Maker

Capacity: 4 quarts

This ice cream maker can make 4 quarts of delicious gelato, frozen yogurt, and ice cream, which is enough to treat everyone with desserts.

As you can see, the overall appearance of the machine looks like a plastic bucket, wherein the cleanup is easy, and it wipes away messes quickly. It comes with a see-through lid wherein you can store the leftover ice cream in the freezer easily since it perfectly fits on top of the canister.

The machine is designed with an easy-carry handle so that the carrying handle attached on both ends of the appliance makes it more convenient to move your ice cream, wherever it needs to be placed.

The steps on how to use it are straightforward, just put all the ingredients in the machine, press the on button, and then let the powerful electric motor does all the churning.

Pros:

  • Serves ice cream in no more than 30 minutes
  • An extra container is included in the packaging
  • Manual recipes are included
  • Comes with a transparent lid

Cons:

  • Auto shut-off is not available

Dash Deluxe Ice Cream and Frozen Yoghurt Maker

Capacity: 1 quart

This ice cream maker is ideal for children who want to get started in making homemade ice cream because it comes in a small capacity of around 1 quart.

You can choose between two different colors that are available in aqua and red. Due to its compact size, it is perfect for homeowners with limited kitchen space.

Though it is compact, it is equipped with a double-walled insulated freezer bowl to keep the ice cream chilled. The manufacturer offers a 1-year warranty, contact their customer support for assistance.

Pros:

  • Comes with a double-walled freezer bowl
  • Easy to use
  • Offers 1-year warranty

Cons:

  • Not dishwasher safe

Conclusion

The above ice cream makers can produce whatever desserts you like, be it gelato, sorbet, frozen yogurt, and ice cream, allowing you to create more affordable versions and healthier desserts without spending too much to buy them.

Whether you are looking to introduce your children to a new hobby or looking for an opportunity to draw the family closer together, an ice cream maker is one of the exciting appliances you can add to your kitchen.