Summer is the perfect time to indulge in cool, refreshing treats made right at home. The Ninja CREAMi XL makes it easy to craft delicious ice cream, sorbet, gelato, and more, tailored to your taste and dietary preferences.
Follow this step-by-step guide to create your own custom frozen desserts, ideal for family gatherings, hot days, or simply satisfying a sweet craving without leaving the house.
Our top pick at a glance

Ninja® CREAMi® XL 11-in-1 Ice Cream Maker
- ✔ Weight: Approximately 10 lbs
- ✔ Power: Electric countertop appliance
- ✔ Warranty: Manufacturer’s warranty included

Ninja Creami XL 11-in-1 Ice Cream Maker with XL Capacity, NC601
- Versatile Ice Cream Maker: Creates ice cream, sorbet, gelato, and more
- Dairy-Free & Smoothie Options: Includes dairy-free, smoothie bowl, and CreamiFit programs
- Large Family Capacity: Two 24-oz tubs for bigger batches
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Preparing Your Ingredients for Perfect Summer Ice Cream
Start by choosing your base ingredients. You can use traditional dairy, or go dairy-free for a vegan option. The Ninja CREAMi XL allows you to control the ingredients, so mix in fresh fruit, chocolate chips, nuts, or candy to customize your treat.
Pre-freeze your base in the provided 24-oz tubs. For best results, freeze the mixture for at least 24 hours until it is solid and firm. If making two flavors, prepare each base separately and freeze accordingly.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Your Summer Frozen Treats
- Remove the frozen base from the freezer and place it into the Ninja CREAMi XL container.
- Secure the lid and select your desired program: Ice Cream, Sorbet, Smoothie Bowl, or Dairy-Free options.
- Press start and let the machine process the frozen base into a smooth, creamy treat in just minutes.
- For extra creaminess, hit the Re-Spin button to refine the texture further.
- If desired, add mix-ins like chocolate chips or fruit during the process or after the initial cycle.
Once done, scoop and enjoy immediately or store in the freezer for later!
Tips for the Best Homemade Summer Desserts
- For a softer texture, let the frozen base sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before processing.
- Use fresh or frozen fruit for vibrant flavor and texture.
- Experiment with different mix-ins and flavors to suit your summer preferences.
- Clean the XL tubs and accessories easily in the dishwasher for quick cleanup after your treat-making session.
Serving Ideas and Additional Tips
Serve your homemade ice cream in bowls, cones, or as part of a summer dessert platter. Garnish with fresh fruit, sprigs of mint, or a drizzle of chocolate for added flair. Remember, the Ninja CREAMi XL offers endless customization—get creative and enjoy your personalized summer treats!
More Details on Our Top Picks
Ninja® CREAMi® XL 11-in-1 Ice Cream Maker

With its versatile functions and family-sized capacity, the Ninja CREAMi XL makes creating personalized, creamy frozen treats quick and easy. Perfect for hot days and family fun, it offers endless flavor possibilities, including dairy-free options.
Pros:
- Large 24-oz tubs for family servings
- Multiple programs including dairy-free and smoothie bowls
- Customizable flavors and mix-ins
- Easy to clean, dishwasher-safe parts
Cons:
- Takes time to freeze bases beforehand
- Limited to 2 flavors per tub at a time
- Requires some prep planning for best results
Best for: Families seeking customizable, homemade summer frozen treats
Not ideal for: Anyone looking for instant, ready-to-eat desserts without prep
Bottom line: A versatile, family-friendly ice cream maker that elevates summer dessert moments.
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