Summer is the perfect time to indulge in homemade frozen treats, from creamy ice cream to refreshing sorbet and smoothie bowls. The Ninja CREAMi XL makes it simple to craft personalized desserts that everyone will love, right in your own kitchen.
With its large capacity and versatile functions, this ice cream maker is a must-have for hot days, pool parties, or just a fun weekend activity with family. Let’s walk through a practical recipe to make your favorite summer treat using the Ninja CREAMi XL.
Our top pick at a glance
Ninja CREAMi XL 11-in-1 Ice Cream Maker
- ✔ Weight: 12 lbs
- ✔ Dimensions: 12 x 12 x 15 inches
- ✔ Power: 120V
Ninja® CREAMi® XL 11-in-1 Ice Cream Maker for Ice Cream, Sorbet, Gelato & More, Now Featuring Dariy Free, Smoothie Bowl, and CreamiFit™, Includes (2) Family-Sized 24.oz Tubs, Navy, NC601
NEW FUNCTIONALITY: Turn almost anything into crave-worthy ice cream, sorbet, frozen yogurt, and more. Now featuring dairy-free, smoothie...
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Preparing Your Base Mixture
Start by choosing your preferred flavor for the frozen treat. Whether it’s a classic vanilla, a fruity sorbet, or a dairy-free option, prepare your ingredients accordingly. For ice cream, mix dairy or plant-based milk with sweeteners and flavorings. For sorbet, blend fresh fruits with a little lemon juice and sweetener. For smoothie bowls, combine your favorite fruits with a liquid base and optional add-ins like nuts or seeds.
Pour your mixture into one of the included 24 oz tubs, making sure not to overfill. Seal the lid tightly and freeze the tub for at least 24 hours — pre-freezing is essential for the best results.
Using the Ninja CREAMi XL to Create Your Frozen Delight
Once your base is fully frozen, remove the tub from the freezer and install it into the Ninja CREAMi XL. Select the appropriate program: ice cream, sorbet, or smoothie bowl. The machine will process your mixture, allowing you to customize the texture — from creamy to chunky — with simple settings.
After processing, check the consistency. If you want it creamier, you can run it through the program again or add a splash of milk and give it a quick re-spin. For a chunkier texture, use the paddle to fold in mix-ins or toppings after processing.
Serving and Tips for Perfect Summer Treats
Once your treat reaches the desired texture, serve immediately for a soft-serve style, or transfer it to the freezer for a firmer consistency. The Ninja CREAMi XL’s large capacity makes it easy to prepare enough for the whole family or to store leftovers.
Tip: For an even more refreshing experience, top your sorbet or smoothie bowl with fresh fruits, coconut flakes, or a drizzle of honey. To keep your tubs in optimal condition, wash the dishwasher-safe parts promptly after use.
More Details on Our Top Picks
Ninja CREAMi XL 11-in-1 Ice Cream Maker
The Ninja CREAMi XL is a powerhouse for making customized ice cream, sorbet, and smoothies, perfect for hot days. Its large capacity and multiple programs make it ideal for family fun and personalized desserts.
Pros:
- Large 24 oz tubs for family-sized portions
- Includes dairy-free and smoothie bowl programs
- Easy to clean with dishwasher-safe parts
- Allows texture and flavor customization
Cons:
- Requires pre-freezing of tubs before use
- Bulky for small kitchens
- Limited recipe flexibility for mix-ins
Best for: Families or anyone wanting quick, customizable frozen treats
Not ideal for: Small kitchens with limited freezer space or those seeking diverse recipes
Bottom line: A versatile, family-friendly ice cream maker perfect for summer DIY treats.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
