Cuisinart ICE-21 1.5-Quart Frozen Yogurt, Ice Cream & Sorbet Maker - Best Overall Value Ice Cream Maker
The Cuisinart ICE-21 delivers professional-quality ice cream at an affordable price, with fast churning and easy operation making it the best value choice.
- +Produces exceptionally smooth and creamy ice cream
- +Fast churning time (20 minutes)
- +Simple one-button operation
- -Requires 24-hour pre-freezing of bowl
- -Small 1.5-quart capacity
- -Plastic paddle feels somewhat flimsy
The Cuisinart ICE-21 stands out as the top-performing ice cream maker in its price range, consistently producing smooth, creamy results that rival more expensive models. Its efficient coolant-lined canister chills the ice cream base rapidly, creating smaller ice crystals for superior texture. The asymmetrical paddle design promotes even mixing and effectively incorporates mix-ins. While requiring advance planning due to the need to pre-freeze the bowl, this machine compensates with its remarkably quick 20-minute churn time. The simple one-button operation makes it accessible for beginners, yet the quality satisfies experienced ice cream enthusiasts.
The clear lid allows for easy monitoring during churning, and the wide opening facilitates adding ingredients. Some users may find the 1.5-quart capacity limiting for larger gatherings, and the plastic construction feels less premium than stainless steel models. However, the ICE-21's consistent performance, ease of cleaning, and three-year warranty make it an exceptional value that outperforms many machines costing twice as much.