Best Ice Cream Makers UK: Tested for Gelato, Soft Serve & Sorbets 2026

The best ice cream makers in the UK can transform your summer desserts, letting you create creamy gelato, soft serve, and refreshing sorbets at home. With prices of premium tubs soaring, owning a machine is a smart investment for any dessert lover.

Why Invest in an Ice Cream Maker?

Homemade ice cream is not only more economical but also healthier. You control the ingredients, avoiding artificial additives and reducing sugar. Plus, you can experiment with unique flavours tailored to your taste, from classic vanilla to exotic matcha.

Cost Savings and Customisation

A tub of premium ice cream costs nearly £6, but making your own can cut that cost significantly. With a machine, you can produce endless batches for the price of cream, milk, and flavourings. It's also perfect for those with dietary restrictions, as you can easily make dairy-free or vegan versions.

How We Tested the Best Ice Cream Makers

Our expert spent nearly a decade reviewing kitchen appliances. We tested each machine for ease of use, freezing time, texture, and flavour. We made gelato, sorbet, and soft serve to see which models excel in each category.

Key Features to Consider

• Compressor vs. pre-freeze bowl: Compressor models are self-freezing, offering continuous use, while pre-freeze bowls need 24 hours in the freezer.
• Capacity: Choose based on your household size; larger machines produce more per batch.
• Ease of cleaning: Look for removable, dishwasher-safe parts.
• Versatility: Some machines also make frozen yoghurt and gelato, adding value.

Top Picks for Gelato, Soft Serve, and Sorbets

Best Overall: Ninja Creami

The Ninja Creami has been a favourite for years, thanks to its ability to churn out ultra-smooth textures. It uses a unique creaming process that eliminates ice crystals, perfect for gelato and sorbet alike. It's a bit pricier but worth every penny.

Best for Soft Serve: Cuisinart Soft Serve

If you're after that carnival-style soft serve, the Cuisinart delivers. Its compressor ensures a consistent, airy texture, and it comes with a cone holder for authentic fun. Ideal for parties.

Best Budget Option: Andrew James Sorbet Maker

For those on a tight budget, the Andrew James offers decent results. You'll need to pre-freeze the bowl, but it produces refreshing sorbets with minimal fuss. Great for occasional use.

Frequently Asked Questions

In conclusion, investing in a quality ice cream maker is a game-changer for dessert enthusiasts. Whether you prefer gelato, soft serve, or sorbets, there's a machine that fits your needs and budget. Our top picks have been rigorously tested to ensure you get the best results every time.