Summer is the season of cool, refreshing treats, and nothing beats homemade ice cream. The Ninja CREAMi XL makes it easy to craft everything from classic ice cream to dairy-free sorbet, perfect for hot days and family gatherings.
With its family-sized capacity and versatile functions, you can create a variety of frozen delights tailored to everyone’s tastes. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to making your own summer ice cream using the Ninja CREAMi XL.
Our top pick at a glance

Ninja® CREAMi® XL 11-in-1 Ice Cream Maker
- ✔ Dimensions: Not specified
- ✔ Weight: Not specified
- ✔ Warranty: Not specified

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 and smoothie bowl programs
- Large Family Capacity: Two 24-oz tubs for bigger batches
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Preparing Your Base
Start by choosing your favorite base for the ice cream or sorbet. You can use traditional ingredients like cream and sugar or opt for dairy-free alternatives. For a simple, fruity sorbet, blend frozen fruit with a sweetener of your choice. For creamy ice cream, mix milk, cream, and sugar, then pour into the XL tubs provided.
Ensure your base is well frozen—preferably overnight—before processing in the Ninja CREAMi XL. This step is key to achieving a smooth, scoopable texture.
Processing in the Ninja CREAMi XL
Remove the lid from your prepared base and place one of the 24-oz XL tubs into the machine. Select the appropriate program—Ice Cream, Sorbet, or Dairy-Free—and let the Ninja CREAMi XL work its magic. The advanced CreamiFit technology ensures your mixture turns into a silky, creamy treat in just a few minutes.
For added flavor variety, process two different flavors in the same tub by adding mix-ins like chocolate chips or fruit pieces after the initial churn, then re-spin for a more integrated texture.
Adding Mix-Ins and Customizing Texture
After the initial processing, open the lid and fold in your favorite mix-ins—nuts, candy, brownie chunks, or fresh fruit. Use the Re-Spin feature for an even creamier, more indulgent texture, adjusting to your preference. This step allows you to personalize each treat for maximum enjoyment.
Remember, you can also make low-sugar, protein-packed, or dairy-free versions to suit dietary needs or cravings.
Serving and Tips for the Perfect Summer Treat
Once your ice cream or sorbet reaches the desired creamy consistency, scoop it into bowls or cones. For best results, serve immediately or store in the freezer for later. The XL tubs and lids are dishwasher safe, making cleanup quick and convenient after your summer kitchen experiments.
Tip: For an extra-refreshing experience, top your homemade creations with fresh fruit or a drizzle of honey, and enjoy the fruits of your labor outdoors or at your summer table.
More Details on Our Top Picks
Ninja® CREAMi® XL 11-in-1 Ice Cream Maker

The Ninja CREAMi XL is an versatile, family-friendly ice cream maker that lets you craft personalized frozen desserts with ease. Its advanced technology ensures smooth, creamy results every time, perfect for summer cooling and fun.
Pros:
- Family-sized 24-oz tubs for more treats
- Multiple functions including dairy-free and smoothie bowls
- Customizable textures and flavors
- Simple to clean and operate
Cons:
- Requires frozen base to operate effectively
- Limited to specific processing programs
- Can be bulky for small kitchens
Best for: Families and home chefs who love making customized frozen desserts
Not ideal for: Those seeking compact or minimalist appliances
Bottom line: Create delicious, personalized summer frozen treats easily with the Ninja CREAMi XL.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.