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7 Best Hand Crank Ice Cream Freezers 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Elite Gourmet Old Fashioned 4 Quart Vintage Appalachian Wood Bucket Electric Ice Cream Maker Machine, *Bonus Classic Die-Cast Hand Crank for Churning, Uses Ice and Rock Salt Churns Ice Cream in Minute

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,196
Material
Ease of Use
Crank Mechanism

Most important from
2042 reviews

Material
The wood bucket construction is impressive and adds a nice vintage touch.
Ease of Use
Setting up the machine is straightforward, and it stops churning automatically when the ice cream is done, ensuring perfect consistency every time.
Crank Mechanism
The electric motor is a fantastic addition, making the ice cream making process much easier while still allowing the option to switch to the hand crank.

The Elite Gourmet Old Fashioned 4 Quart Ice Cream Maker offers a good balance of vintage charm and modern convenience. It has a 4-quart capacity, making it suitable for family gatherings and parties. The wooden bucket gives it a classic look, while the aluminum canister ensures easy cleaning.

Users will appreciate the dual operation modes: an electric motor for convenience and a manual hand-crank for a more traditional, hands-on experience. The quiet operation of the electric motor is a nice touch, ensuring it won't be too disruptive during use. The machine uses ice and rock salt to freeze the mixture, a method that some might find a bit old-fashioned but effective for achieving creamy results. The inclusion of recipes helps beginners get started quickly.

However, the unit requires hand washing, which might be a drawback for those who prefer dishwasher-safe components. Additionally, while the wooden bucket adds to the aesthetic appeal, it might not be as durable as plastic alternatives. The product is reasonably easy to use, following a simple three-step process, and the 1-year limited warranty provides some peace of mind. This ice cream maker would be best for those who enjoy a mix of traditional and modern ice cream making processes and don't mind a bit of manual effort.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,196
Material
Ease of Use
Crank Mechanism

Most important from
2042 reviews

Material
The wood bucket construction is impressive and adds a nice vintage touch.
Ease of Use
Setting up the machine is straightforward, and it stops churning automatically when the ice cream is done, ensuring perfect consistency every time.
Crank Mechanism
The electric motor is a fantastic addition, making the ice cream making process much easier while still allowing the option to switch to the hand crank.
#2

PREMIUM 6 qt. - Immergood Stainless Steel Ice Cream Maker - Hand Crank

Rating
9.6
Material
Ease of Use
Crank Mechanism

Most important from
174 reviews

Material
Built like a tank with heavy stainless steel parts and a sturdy bucket, this ice cream maker is expected to outlive its owners.
Ease of Use
This ice cream maker is reminiscent of the old wooden ones but easier to use, sturdy, and well-designed.
Crank Mechanism
Cranking and gears run smoothly, producing a perfect batch of ice cream in just 15 minutes.

The Immergood Stainless Steel Ice Cream Maker is a premium hand-crank ice cream freezer with a 6-quart capacity. Crafted with durable, rust-proof stainless steel hardware, this unit promises long-lasting use without the need for grease, thanks to its Polly wear bushings. The triple-layer, highly insulated poly tub ensures no leaks and keeps your ice cream cold for extended periods, making it ideal for outdoor activities and family gatherings.

Its unique triple action dasher provides a superior churn, resulting in excellent ice cream texture with every use. The hand-crank mechanism allows for use anywhere, as long as you have ice and your mix. The product is made in small-town America, supporting local, family-run shops. Cleaning is straightforward, with internal parts being dishwasher safe, although hand washing the tub is recommended.

On the downside, some users might find its 17.91-pound weight and larger dimensions bulky. Additionally, the handmade aspect might lead to minor variations or scuff marks, which some might not appreciate. However, with a 3-year warranty and a strong build, this ice cream maker is an excellent choice for those seeking a nostalgic, high-quality ice cream making experience.

Rating
9.6
Material
Ease of Use
Crank Mechanism

Most important from
174 reviews

Material
Built like a tank with heavy stainless steel parts and a sturdy bucket, this ice cream maker is expected to outlive its owners.
Ease of Use
This ice cream maker is reminiscent of the old wooden ones but easier to use, sturdy, and well-designed.
Crank Mechanism
Cranking and gears run smoothly, producing a perfect batch of ice cream in just 15 minutes.
#3

Immergood - 6 qt - Battery Powered Ice Cream Maker - Stainless Steel (Fits DeWalt 20v / Milwaukee 18v)

Rating
9.3
Ease of Use

Most important from
9 reviews

Ease of Use
Makes quick work of ice cream making!

The Immergood 6 qt Battery Powered Ice Cream Maker is a versatile, portable device suitable for outdoor activities, picnics, and sports events. With a 6-quart capacity, it can produce a significant amount of ice cream, making it great for larger gatherings. Made from stainless steel hardware, the ice cream maker promises durability and resistance to rust.

The poly tub is leak-proof and core insulated, ensuring that the ice cream stays cold for longer periods. The electric operation powered by DeWalt 20v or Milwaukee 18v batteries (not included) provides convenience and ease of use, eliminating the need for manual cranking. However, the batteries last for only approximately two batches, which may require extra batteries for extended use.

This product is designed for truly portable use, making it easy to transport to various locations. However, it is not a traditional hand-crank model, so if you are looking for a manual experience, this may not be the right choice. The need for hand washing may also be a drawback for those who prefer dishwasher-safe options. The Immergood ice cream maker combines durability, portability, and convenience, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy making ice cream on the go.

Rating
9.3
Ease of Use

Most important from
9 reviews

Ease of Use
Makes quick work of ice cream making!

Buying Guide for the Best Hand Crank Ice Cream Freezers

Choosing the right hand-crank ice cream freezer can be a delightful experience if you know what to look for. These traditional devices allow you to make delicious homemade ice cream, and the manual process can be fun and rewarding. To ensure you pick the best one for your needs, consider the following key specifications and understand how they impact your ice cream-making experience.
CapacityCapacity refers to the amount of ice cream the freezer can make in one batch. This is important because it determines how much ice cream you can produce at a time. Capacities typically range from 1 quart to 6 quarts or more. If you have a small family or only need to make small batches, a 1-2 quart freezer might be sufficient. For larger families or gatherings, consider a 4-6 quart model. Think about how much ice cream you usually consume and choose a capacity that matches your needs.
MaterialThe material of the ice cream freezer affects its durability and performance. Common materials include wood, plastic, and stainless steel. Wooden freezers have a classic look and can be very durable, but they may require more maintenance. Plastic models are lightweight and easy to clean but might not be as durable. Stainless steel freezers are highly durable and easy to clean, but they can be heavier and more expensive. Consider how often you plan to use the freezer and how much maintenance you're willing to do when choosing the material.
Ease of UseEase of use encompasses how simple the freezer is to assemble, operate, and clean. This is important because a complicated or difficult-to-use freezer can take the fun out of making ice cream. Look for models with clear instructions, easy-to-turn cranks, and parts that are easy to disassemble and clean. If you plan to involve children in the ice cream-making process, ensure the freezer is user-friendly and safe for them to use.
Freezing MethodHand-crank ice cream freezers typically use either a salt and ice method or a pre-frozen canister. The salt and ice method involves layering ice and rock salt around the canister, which can be more traditional and allows for continuous batches. Pre-frozen canisters need to be frozen ahead of time and can be more convenient but limit you to one batch at a time unless you have multiple canisters. Consider how much planning you want to do and how many batches you plan to make when choosing the freezing method.
Crank MechanismThe crank mechanism is the part you turn to churn the ice cream. This is important because a smooth and sturdy crank makes the churning process easier and more enjoyable. Look for models with ergonomic handles and sturdy construction. Some cranks are easier to turn than others, so if you have limited strength or plan to involve children, choose a model with a crank that is easy to operate.
InsulationInsulation refers to how well the freezer maintains the cold temperature needed to make ice cream. Good insulation is important because it ensures the ice cream freezes properly and maintains its texture. Models with better insulation will keep the mixture colder for longer, resulting in smoother ice cream. If you live in a warmer climate or plan to make ice cream outdoors, prioritize models with excellent insulation.

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