Summer is the perfect time to indulge in cool, refreshing treats. The Ninja® CREAMi® XL makes it easy to create a variety of homemade ice creams, sorbets, and smoothies right in your own kitchen.
Whether you’re relaxing by the pool or hosting a backyard barbecue, this versatile ice cream maker lets you craft custom flavors to suit everyone’s tastes. Follow this simple step-by-step guide to make your own summer frozen delights.
Our top pick at a glance

Ninja® CREAMi® XL 11-in-1 Ice Cream Maker
- ✔ Weight: Approximately 12 lbs
- ✔ Dimensions: 10 x 8 x 14 inches
- ✔ Warranty: Limited one-year warranty

Ninja Creami XL 11-in-1 Ice Cream Maker with XL Capacity, NC601
- Versatile Ice Cream Maker: Creates ice cream, sorbet, frozen yogurt, and more
- Dairy-Free & Smoothie Options: Includes dairy-free, smoothie bowl, and CreamiFit programs
- Large Capacity: 24-oz XL tub, 50% larger than original
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Preparing Your Ingredients
The first step is choosing your base ingredients. The Ninja® CREAMi® XL allows for dairy-based or dairy-free options, so you can customize your treats for dietary preferences or allergies.
- Pick your flavor: fruits, chocolate, nuts, or candy.
- Prepare your mix-ins: chop or crumble as needed.
- Freeze your base: pour your mixture into one of the XL tubs and freeze it for at least 24 hours.
Creating Your Ice Cream
Once your base is frozen solid, it’s time to process it in the Ninja® CREAMi® XL.
- Install the frozen tub into the machine and select your desired program: Ice Cream, Sorbet, or Smoothie Bowl.
- Press start and wait for the machine to transform your frozen base into a creamy treat.
- If needed, use the Re-Spin feature to achieve an even smoother texture.
Adding Mix-Ins and Customizations
For a personalized touch, mix in chocolate chips, fresh fruit, nuts, or candy during the processing or after the initial cycle.
Use the second flavor in the same tub by processing a different mix-in combination, perfect for family members with different tastes.
Remember, you can also make dairy-free, low-sugar, or protein-packed options to suit your summer diet.
Serving Tips and Storage
Serve your homemade ice cream immediately for the best texture. If you prefer a firmer consistency, freeze it for an additional hour.
Store leftovers in the same XL tubs, which are dishwasher safe for easy cleanup. The creamy texture and customizable flavors make every batch a summer hit!
More Details on Our Top Picks
Ninja® CREAMi® XL 11-in-1 Ice Cream Maker

The Ninja® CREAMi® XL combines ease of use with creative flexibility, making it ideal for crafting homemade frozen treats for the whole family. Its family-sized capacity and advanced technology set it apart for summer indulgence.
Pros:
- Large 24 oz tubs for family-sized batches
- Supports dairy-free, smoothie bowls, and classic treats
- Easy to clean with dishwasher-safe parts
- Customizable textures with Re-Spin feature
Cons:
- Takes at least 24 hours to freeze bases
- May require some trial to perfect textures
- Bulkier size may not be suitable for small kitchens
Best for: Families and home cooks wanting versatile frozen treats
Not ideal for:
Bottom line: A powerful and flexible ice cream maker perfect for creating summer treats at home
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