Summer is the perfect time to indulge in frozen treats that cool you down and satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you’re relaxing by the garden, hosting a backyard BBQ, or enjoying a sunny afternoon, homemade ice cream and sorbet can elevate your outdoor experience.
The Ninja CREAMi XL 11-in-1 Ice Cream Maker makes creating these refreshing desserts simple, fun, and customizable for the whole family. Let’s explore how to make your favorite summer flavors step-by-step.
Our top pick at a glance

Ninja CREAMi XL 11-in-1 Ice Cream Maker
- ✔ Dimensions: Varies by model
- ✔ Weight: Heavy but portable
- ✔ Power: Standard outlet
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Getting Ready: Pre-Freezing the Tubs
Before you start, ensure the two 24-ounce tubs are frozen solid. Place them in your freezer at least 24 hours prior to preparing your treat. Proper pre-freezing is key to achieving the perfect creamy texture for your ice cream or sorbet.
Once frozen, you’re ready to mix your ingredients and create a delicious summer dessert in no time.
Making Your Summer Frozen Treat
- Choose your base: dairy or dairy-free options work great, and you can add fresh fruits, herbs, or even a splash of juice for extra flavor.
- Add your ingredients to the Ninja CREAMi bowl, making sure not to exceed the max fill line.
- Securely place the bowl into the machine and select your desired program—ice cream, sorbet, gelato, or smoothie bowl.
- Start the cycle and wait about 3-5 minutes for the magic to happen. The machine will churn your mixture into a smooth, creamy treat.
Once finished, you can enjoy your homemade summer delight immediately or give it a quick re-spin if you prefer an even creamier texture.
Tips for Perfect Summer Frozen Desserts
- For best results, use fresh, ripe fruits and chill any liquids beforehand.
- Add mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or fresh herbs after the initial churning for added texture.
- Use the adjustable texture feature to get your dessert just how you like it—creamy or more icy.
- Clean the dishwasher-safe tubs, lids, and paddle after each use to keep your machine in top condition.
Experiment with different flavor combinations to keep your summer treats exciting all season long!
More Details on Our Top Picks
Ninja CREAMi XL 11-in-1 Ice Cream Maker

With its family-sized capacity and versatile programs, the Ninja CREAMi XL makes it easy to whip up ice cream, sorbet, gelato, and smoothies. Its user-friendly design and dishwasher-safe parts make summer treat-making a breeze.
Pros:
- Large 2 x 24 oz capacity
- Includes dairy-free and smoothie bowl programs
- Easy to clean with dishwasher-safe parts
- Customizable textures and flavors
Cons:
- Requires pre-freezing of tubs
- Bulky for small kitchens
- Limited to specific recipes and mix-ins
Best for: Families who love making personalized frozen treats for summer gatherings
Not ideal for: Small kitchens or those seeking quick, single-serving desserts
Bottom line: A versatile, family-sized ice cream maker that makes summer treats effortless and fun.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.