A strong ice cream churner with a built-in timer gives families and frequent dessert makers more hands-off control, with options ranging from self-freezing compressors to large freezer-bowl machines. The Whynter ICM-220SSY is a particularly versatile fit for households that want a 2-quart batch, automatic operation, a timer, and a yogurt function without pre-freezing. The Whynter ICM-128WS suits smaller batches, while the NestSail and 2-quart Martha Stewart models emphasize capacity but require a frozen bowl.
Compressor models from Inoviva, oplace, and Martha Stewart’s 1-quart machine reduce planning by cooling as they churn. Ninja’s CREAMi models take a different approach: freeze the base first, then process it through preset programs.
Your best match depends on timer controls, batch size, and whether you can reserve freezer space.
For a built-in timer and no-pre-freezing convenience, choose the Whynter ICM-220SSY: it makes up to 2 quarts, uses a built-in compressor, includes an LCD display and timer, and also functions as a yogurt maker. The Whynter ICM-128WS is a smaller 1.28-quart timer-equipped alternative. If family-size capacity matters more than compressor cooling, the 2-quart Martha Stewart or 2.1-quart NestSail models offer timers but require a freezer bowl prepared in advance.
Ice Cream Churner Timer Comparison
How We Compared These Products
We compared dimensions, capacity, materials, compatibility, included components, and care requirements across many Amazon listings. These details matter because the product must fit the available space, intended use, setup requirements, and maintenance routine. After examining the wider field, we selected 10 products from Instant Pot, Whynter, inoviva, NestSail, oplace, Martha Stewart, and Ninja.
The shortlist includes products such as Instant Pot InstantChill Ice Cream Maker Plus Rolled, Whynter Ice Cream Maker with Compressor & Timer, and Inoviva Ice Cream Maker Automatic 1.7 Pt. Every recommendation is tied to information stated for that specific product; unclear or missing features were treated as unknown rather than filled with assumptions.
Detailed Reviews: Best Ice Cream Churner With Built In Timer
1. Instant Pot InstantChill Ice Cream Maker Plus Rolled
Best for: No Pre-Freezing Dessert Maker.
The Instant Pot InstantChill Ice Cream Maker Plus features a built-in compressor and cold plate system, enabling ultra-smooth fresh ice cream, gelato, and sorbet in 20 minutes or less without pre-freezing. This allows for spontaneous dessert creation from ingredients to frozen treats instantly.
This 2-pint capacity machine uses a built-in compressor and cold plate for rapid freezing and churning, eliminating the need for overnight pre-freezing. You can churn directly in the bowl or pour onto the cold plate for even faster results. The automatic operation and included paddles make creating various frozen desserts convenient for residential use.
Product Details
| Brand | Instant Pot |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 2 pints |
| Color | Sea Salt |
| Included Components | 2 Rolled Ice Cream Paddles |
| Item Weight | 19.6 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Instant Pot |
| Material | Metal, Plastic, Silicone |
Additional Product Information
| Model | Instant Pot InstantChill Ice Cream Maker |
|---|---|
| Model Number | 180-0002-01B |
| Operation Mode | Automatic |
| Special Features | Built in Cold Plate, Mix-in Function, Built-In Compressor |
| Recommended Uses | Residential |
| Special Feature | Built in Cold Plate, Mix-in Function, Built-In Compressor |
Pros
- Built-in compressor for no pre-freezing
- Cold plate system for faster freezing
- Makes ice cream, gelato, and sorbet
- 2-pint capacity for small batches
Cons
- Requires a 2-hour rest period before first use after shipping.
Ideal for those who want instant frozen desserts without advance planning, this machine is best for spontaneous cravings and everyday use, fitting easily into a residential kitchen.
2. Whynter Ice Cream Maker with Compressor & Timer, 1.28 Qt, White, ICM-128WS
Best for: Award-Winning Self-Freezing Machine.
The Whynter ICM-128WS ice cream maker boasts self-freezing technology, eliminating the need for pre-freezing a canister and allowing quick preparation of customized frozen treats. It makes up to 1.28 quarts of ice cream, gelato, or sorbet per batch.
This automatic ice cream maker features a built-in timer and motor protection function, ensuring consistent results without manual monitoring. Its self-freezing capability means you can start making desserts immediately. The removable stainless steel bowl and BPA-free churn blade are designed for effortless cleaning after use.
Product Details
| Brand | Whynter |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 1.28 quarts |
| Color | White |
| Included Components | Removable stainless bowl and BPA free churn blade for effortless cleaning |
| Dimensions | 11"L x 10"W x 14"H |
| Item Weight | 19.3 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Whynter |
Additional Product Information
| Material | Plastic |
|---|---|
| Model | ICM-128WS |
| Model Number | ICM-128WS |
| Operation Mode | Automatic |
| Special Features | Built-In Timer, Motor Protection Function |
| Care Instructions | Hand Wash Only |
| Recommended Uses | Residential |
| Special Feature | Built-In Timer, Motor Protection Function |
| Warranty Description | One year limited warranty |
Pros
- Self-freezing technology, no pre-freeze needed
- Built-in timer for convenience
- Makes up to 1.28 quarts per batch
- Motor protection function for durability
Cons
- Made primarily of plastic material.
Perfect for home users seeking a convenient way to create customized frozen desserts, this machine is suitable for those who value ease of use and quick preparation.
3. Inoviva Ice Cream Maker Automatic 1.7 Pt, No Pre-Freezing,Built-In Compressor, Digital Display & Timer,3 Presets, Makes ice cream, Gelato, Perfect for home & party, IM001
Best for: Compact No-Pre-Freeze Dessert Maker.
The Inoviva IM001 ice cream maker features a powerful built-in compressor, eliminating the need for overnight bowl freezing and allowing you to start making desserts anytime. It offers continuous cooling for convenience.
This automatic 0.8-liter ice cream maker uses a built-in compressor for immediate use, bypassing the need to freeze bowls beforehand. It includes a digital display and timer, along with three presets for ice cream, gelato, and sorbet. The compact, lightweight ABS construction makes it suitable for home and party use.
Product Details
| Brand | inoviva |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 0.8 liters |
| Color | BLACK |
| Included Components | Cleaning Cloth, Ice Cream Scoop;lce Cream Shovel, Measuring Cup, Silver Aluminum Container, User Manual |
| Dimensions | 11.81"L x 8.66"W x 7.87"H |
| Item Weight | 6.8 pounds |
| Manufacturer | inoviva |
Additional Product Information
| Material | Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) |
|---|---|
| Model | IM001 |
| Model Number | IM001 |
| Operation Mode | Automatic |
| Special Features | Built-In Compressor |
| Recommended Uses | Residential |
| Special Feature | Built-In Compressor |
| Warranty Description | 2 |
Pros
- Built-in compressor for immediate use
- No overnight pre-freezing required
- Digital display and timer
- Compact and lightweight design
Cons
- Capacity is 0.8 liters (approximately 1.7 pints).
This machine is ideal for home users who want to make fresh frozen desserts without advance preparation, fitting easily into any kitchen space.
4. Ice Cream Maker Machine, 2.1QT Double Freezer Bowl, 6-10 Serving Capacity
Best for: Large Capacity Family Ice Cream Machine.
The NestSail ice cream maker offers a large 2.1-quart capacity, perfect for family nights or parties, allowing for 6-12 small servings in a single batch. It features a digital display and built-in timer for ease of use.
This automatic ice cream maker utilizes a double-insulated freezer bowl that requires at least 8 hours of freezing time (overnight recommended) to produce up to 2.1 quarts of frozen treats. The see-through lid allows for easy monitoring, and the included scoop simplifies serving.
Product Details
| Brand | NestSail |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 2.1 quarts |
| Color | White |
| Included Components | Freezer Bowl, Ice cream scoop |
| Manufacturer | NestSail |
| Material | Metal, Plastic |
| Model | SU505 |
Additional Product Information
| Model Number | SU505 |
|---|---|
| Operation Mode | Automatic |
| Special Features | Built-In Timer, Digital Display, Double Insulated Freezer, See-Through Lid |
| Recommended Uses | Residential |
| Special Feature | Built-In Timer, Digital Display, Double Insulated Freezer, See-Through Lid |
Pros
- Large 2.1-quart capacity
- Digital display for clear information
- Built-in timer for precise operation
- Double insulated freezer bowl
Cons
- Requires 8+ hours of freezer time before use.
This machine is best for families or gatherings needing larger batches of homemade ice cream, offering a generous serving size for shared enjoyment.
5. Whynter Ice Cream Maker Machine & Yogurt Automatic 2 Qt. with Built-In Compressor, LCD Digital Display & Timer, No Pre-Freezing, ICM-220SSY, Stainless Steel
Best for: Dual Function Ice Cream & Yogurt Maker.
The Whynter ICM-220SSY is an automatic 2-quart ice cream maker with a unique yogurt function, allowing for both frozen desserts and fresh yogurt creation. It features a built-in compressor and LCD digital display.
This stainless steel ice cream maker boasts a 2-quart capacity and a built-in compressor, eliminating the need for pre-freezing. Its special yogurt function allows for making fresh, natural yogurt from your preferred ingredients. The unit includes a built-in timer and motor protection for reliable operation.
Product Details
| Brand | Whynter |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 2 quarts |
| Color | Stainless Steel |
| Included Components | Ice Cream Maker, bowl, blade, top, scoop |
| Item Weight | 24.3 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Whynter |
| Material | Stainless Steel |
Additional Product Information
| Model | Ice Cream Maker 2 Quart Capacity Stainless Steel Bowl & Yogurt Function |
|---|---|
| Model Number | ICM-220SSY |
| Operation Mode | Automatic |
| Special Features | Yogurt Incubator Function, Built-In Timer, Motor Protection Function |
| Care Instructions | Hand Wash Only |
| Recommended Uses | Residential |
| Special Feature | Yogurt Incubator Function, Built-In Timer, Motor Protection Function |
| Warranty Description | One Year Limited Manufacturer Warranty |
Pros
- Makes both ice cream and yogurt
- Built-in compressor, no pre-freezing
- 2-quart capacity
- LCD digital display and timer
Cons
- Weighs 24.3 pounds, making it heavier than some models.
This versatile machine is ideal for those who enjoy both homemade ice cream and fresh yogurt, offering dual functionality for a variety of dairy and non-dairy treats.
6. 4-in-1 Compressor Ice Cream Maker (1.0Qt), No Pre-Freezing, Automatic Yogurt Maker, Gelato Sorbet Frozen Yogurt Soft Serve Machine, Compact Vertical Design for Home Kitchen(Blue)
Best for: Compact 4-in-1 Soft Serve Machine.
The oplace 4-in-1 ice cream maker features a built-in compressor, eliminating the need for pre-freezing and enabling automatic production of ice cream, gelato, sorbet, frozen yogurt, and soft serve. Its compact vertical design saves counter space.
This 1-quart capacity machine offers versatile dessert creation with its built-in compressor and one-touch automatic control. It requires no manual monitoring and delivers fresh, creamy desserts quickly. The slim vertical design makes it suitable for home kitchens where space is a consideration.
Product Details
| Brand | oplace |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 1 quarts |
| Color | Blue |
| Included Components | Machine × 1, Manual × 1, Recipe × 1 |
| Manufacturer | oplace |
| Material | Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) |
| Model | SU-I03 |
Additional Product Information
| Model Number | SU-I03 |
|---|---|
| Operation Mode | Automatic |
| Special Features | Built-In Compressor |
| Recommended Uses | Residential |
| Special Feature | Built-In Compressor |
| Warranty Description | 1 Year Manufacturer |
Pros
- 4-in-1 functionality (ice cream, gelato, sorbet, yogurt, soft serve)
- Built-in compressor, no pre-freezing
- Compact vertical design
- Automatic operation with one-touch control
Cons
- Capacity is 1 quart, smaller than some other models.
This machine is perfect for individuals or small families wanting to make a variety of frozen treats with minimal fuss, especially in kitchens with limited counter space.
7. Martha Stewart Ice Cream Maker Machine, 1QT Fully Automatic, 3 Modes, Linen
Best for: Automatic 3-Mode Frozen Treat Maker.
The Martha Stewart 1QT Ice Cream Maker features a built-in compressor that chills ingredients instantly, allowing you to make ice cream, sorbet, or frozen yogurt in as little as 30 minutes without pre-freezing. It offers three easy modes.
This 1-quart automatic ice cream maker uses a built-in compressor for immediate chilling, eliminating the need for a freezer bowl. With three distinct modes (Ice Cream, Sorbet, Frozen Yogurt) and an intuitive LED display with an easy-turn dial, crafting your favorite frozen desserts is simple and precise.
Product Details
| Brand | Martha Stewart |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 1 quarts |
| Color | Linen Cream |
| Included Components | 1QT Ice Cream Maker |
| Dimensions | 12"L x 12"W x 15.9"H |
| Manufacturer | Martha Stewart |
| Material | Metal, Plastic |
Additional Product Information
| Model | 1QT Ice Cream Maker |
|---|---|
| Model Number | CC010982-001 |
| Operation Mode | Automatic |
| Special Features | Built-In Compressor, Digital Display, Low Noise, See-Through Lid |
| Care Instructions | Dishwasher Safe, Hand Wash Only |
| Recommended Uses | Residential |
| Special Feature | Built-In Compressor, Digital Display, Low Noise, See-Through Lid |
Pros
- Built-in compressor, no pre-freezing needed
- Three distinct dessert modes
- Intuitive LED display and easy-turn dial
- Makes up to 8 servings
Cons
- Requires dishwasher-safe parts for cleaning.
This machine is ideal for those who want to quickly create various frozen desserts with simple operation, perfect for family nights or entertaining small groups.
8. Martha Stewart Ice Cream Maker Machine, 2QT Double Insulated Freezer Bowl
Best for: Large Capacity Classic Ice Cream Maker.
The Martha Stewart 2QT Ice Cream Maker features a double-insulated freezer bowl and a large 2-quart capacity, ideal for entertaining or family-sized batches of ice cream, sorbet, and frozen yogurt. It prepares treats in about 20 minutes.
This automatic 2-quart ice cream maker requires the double-insulated bowl to be frozen overnight, then prepares frozen treats in approximately 20 minutes. It includes an ingredient pour chute for mess-free additions and a digital display with a built-in timer for precise control. The generous capacity serves up to 16 portions.
Product Details
| Brand | Martha Stewart |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 2 quarts |
| Color | Linen Cream |
| Included Components | Motor base, freezing bowl, mixing blade, lid, and lid cap |
| Dimensions | 16.14"L x 10.43"W x 10.94"H |
| Manufacturer | Martha Stewart |
| Material | Metal, Plastic |
Additional Product Information
| Model | 2QT Ice Cream Maker |
|---|---|
| Model Number | CC011094-001 |
| Operation Mode | Automatic |
| Special Features | Built-In Timer, Digital Display, Double Insulated Freezer, See-Through Lid |
| Care Instructions | Dishwasher Safe, Hand Wash Only |
| Recommended Uses | Residential |
| Special Feature | Built-In Timer, Digital Display, Double Insulated Freezer, See-Through Lid |
Pros
- Large 2-quart capacity for big batches
- Double-insulated freezer bowl
- Ingredient pour chute for easy additions
- Prepares treats in about 20 minutes
Cons
- Requires overnight freezing of the bowl before use.
This machine is best for families or hosts who frequently make large quantities of frozen desserts and are comfortable with the overnight bowl freezing requirement.
9. Ninja® CREAMi® 7-in-1 Ice Cream Maker, Ice Cream, Gelato and more, NC301
Best for: 7-in-1 Versatile Frozen Treat System.
The Ninja CREAMi NC301 is a 7-in-1 ice cream maker utilizing exclusive Creamify Technology to transform a uniformly frozen pint into smooth, creamy results. It offers seven one-touch programs for various frozen desserts.
This automatic ice cream maker processes a frozen pint using its Creamify Technology and a Creamerizer Paddle to create smooth textures. It features seven one-touch programs including Ice Cream, Gelato, Sorbet, and Milkshake. The system includes two 16 oz. CREAMi Pints with storage lids and an outer bowl for processing.
Product Details
| Brand | Ninja |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 1 pints |
| Color | Silver |
| Included Components | (2) 16 oz. CREAMi Pints with storage lids, Creamerizer Paddle, Motor Base with Dual-Drive Motors, Outer bowl and lid to house pint while processing, Recipe inspiration guide with 30 recipes |
| Dimensions | 12.07"L x 6.52"W x 15.95"H |
| Item Weight | 13 pounds |
| Manufacturer | SharkNinja |
Additional Product Information
| Material | Stainless Steel |
|---|---|
| Model | Ninja |
| Model Number | NC301 |
| Operation Mode | Automatic |
| Special Features | Automatic Shut-Off, Built-In Timer, Digital Display, Programmable |
| Care Instructions | Dishwasher Safe |
| Recommended Uses | Residential |
| Special Feature | Automatic Shut-Off, Built-In Timer, Digital Display, Programmable |
| Warranty Description | 1 Year Limited Warranty |
Pros
- 7-in-1 one-touch programs
- Creamify Technology for smooth results
- Processes a frozen pint quickly
- Includes two CREAMi Pints with lids
Cons
- Requires pre-freezing the base in a pint for at least 24 hours.
Ideal for individuals or small households who enjoy experimenting with various frozen dessert textures, this machine is best for those who can plan ahead for the freezing step.
10. Ninja CREAMi XL Deluxe 11-in-1 Ice Cream & Frozen Treat Maker, NC501
Best for: XL Deluxe 11-in-1 Frozen Treat Maker.
The Ninja CREAMi XL Deluxe NC501 offers an expanded 11-in-1 functionality, including Ice Cream, Sorbet, and Gelato, with an XL family-sized capacity. It features dual processing for larger batches and advanced Creamify Technology.
This automatic frozen treat maker boasts 11 one-touch programs and an XL capacity using 24-oz. CREAMi Deluxe Tubs, holding 50% more than the original. It utilizes dual-drive motors and Creamify Technology for processing frozen bases into various textures. Parts are dishwasher safe for easy cleanup.
Product Details
| Brand | Ninja |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 3 pounds |
| Color | Silver |
| Included Components | (2) 24 oz. CREAMi Deluxe Pints with Storage Lids, Motor Bae with Dual-Drive Motors & Creamify Technology, 30 Recipe Inspiration Guide, Outer Bowl & Lid, Deluxe Creamerizer Paddle |
| Dimensions | 12.01"L x 8.42"W x 16.69"H |
| Item Weight | 14.4 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Ninja |
Additional Product Information
| Material | Plastic |
|---|---|
| Model | Ninja NC501 |
| Model Number | NC501 |
| Operation Mode | Automatic |
| Special Features | Dishwasher Safe Parts |
| Care Instructions | Dishwasher Safe Parts |
| Recommended Uses | Residential |
| Special Feature | Dishwasher Safe Parts |
| Warranty Description | 1 Year Limited Warranty |
Pros
- 11 one-touch programs for diverse treats
- XL family-sized capacity
- Dual processing capabilities
- Dishwasher safe parts for easy cleaning
Cons
- Requires pre-freezing the base in a pint for at least 24 hours.
This machine is perfect for larger families or those who entertain frequently, offering ample capacity and versatility for a wide range of frozen desserts with advance preparation.
What Buyers Often Overlook
Timer Models Versus No-Pre-Freezing Compressors
A built-in timer and a compressor solve different parts of the ice cream-making process. The Whynter ICM-128WS and ICM-220SSY explicitly combine automatic operation with built-in timers, while the NestSail, 2-quart Martha Stewart, and Ninja NC301 also list timer-related controls. A timer can help manage a cycle without constant monitoring, but it does not eliminate the need to freeze a bowl when the machine uses a freezer-bowl design.
By contrast, the Whynter models, Inoviva IM001, oplace SU-I03, and Martha Stewart 1-quart machine use built-in compressors or self-freezing systems, so they do not require overnight bowl freezing. The trade-off is physical bulk: the two Whynter machines weigh about 19.3 and 24.3 pounds, while the compressor-equipped Instant Pot weighs 19.6 pounds.
Check whether your priority is scheduled control or spontaneous, no-prep batches.
The Key Product Trade-Off
Capacity and Batch Fit for Families
The 2-quart and larger machines are the clearest fit for family servings or entertaining. The Whynter ICM-220SSY and Martha Stewart 2-quart model each make up to 2 quarts, while the NestSail lists 2.1 quarts and describes a 6-to-12-small-serving range. These models reduce the need for repeated cycles compared with 1-quart machines, but the NestSail and 2-quart Martha Stewart require a freezer bowl, with the NestSail specifying at least eight hours below -0.4°F before use.
Smaller countertop options suit households that prefer compact batches: the Whynter ICM-128WS holds 1.28 quarts, and the Inoviva lists 0.8 liters. Ninja’s CREAMi NC301 processes 16-ounce pints, while the NC501 uses 24-ounce tubs and includes two tubs.
Choose by serving rhythm: large compressor models suit same-day family production, while freezer-based systems suit planned portions.
Best Ice Cream Churner With Built In Timer: Buyer's Guide
Fit, Dimensions, and Compatibility
Compare the listed dimensions with the intended counter, cabinet, appliance, storage, or installation space. Confirm model compatibility and connection requirements where they are supplied. A useful feature cannot compensate for a product that does not physically fit or work with the buyer’s existing setup.
Capacity, Output, and Operating Format
Match listed capacity, volume, output, and operating mode to the actual household or work routine. Larger figures can support heavier use, while a smaller format may be easier to place and maintain. Treat daily output, immediate storage, and container capacity as separate specifications when the listing distinguishes them.
Materials, Construction, and Care
Use the listed materials and care instructions to judge cleaning effort, storage conditions, and compatibility with the intended use. Dishwasher, freezer, food-contact, or weather-related claims are included only when supplied for that product. Check whether routine care fits the way the product will be used.
Included Components and Setup Needs
Review the included components before planning installation or first use. Hoses, adapters, lids, paddles, bowls, brushes, controls, and manuals vary by listing. Confirm power, water, assembly, or accessory requirements from the supplied product information rather than assuming that separately pictured parts are included.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose the Whynter ICM-220SSY if you want the strongest combination of a built-in timer, no pre-freezing, a 2-quart batch, and yogurt making. Pick the Whynter ICM-128WS for a smaller self-freezing machine with a timer and removable stainless bowl. Choose Inoviva or oplace when compressor cooling and compact dessert versatility matter more than a listed timer; both support multiple frozen-dessert styles, and Inoviva lists a digital display and timer.
Select the NestSail or 2-quart Martha Stewart when family capacity and timer controls are important and you can freeze a bowl ahead. Choose the Ninja CREAMi NC301 or NC501 for preset processing and mix-in flexibility, provided you are comfortable freezing the base before processing.
Quick Buying Checklist
- Confirm the complete dimensions against the available space.
- Verify model, accessory, connection, and appliance compatibility.
- Match capacity or output to the expected amount of use.
- Compare materials and care instructions with the maintenance routine.
- Check the included components before planning setup or first use.
- Confirm listed power, water, storage, or installation requirements where applicable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the benefit of a built-in timer?
A built-in timer automates the churning process, preventing over-churning or under-churning. It ensures consistent results by stopping the machine at the optimal time, allowing you to walk away and attend to other tasks without constant monitoring.
Do ice cream makers with timers require pre-freezing?
Some models with timers, particularly those featuring a built-in compressor, do not require pre-freezing. This allows you to start making ice cream immediately. However, models with double freezer bowls typically need the bowls to be frozen beforehand.
How do compressor ice cream makers differ from freezer bowl models?
Compressor models have a built-in refrigeration unit, eliminating the need to pre-freeze a bowl. This offers greater convenience and the ability to make multiple batches consecutively. Freezer bowl models require the bowl to be frozen for several hours before use.
Can these machines make other frozen desserts besides ice cream?
Yes, many ice cream churners with timers are designed for versatility. They can often prepare gelato, sorbet, frozen yogurt, and even soft-serve ice cream, depending on the specific model’s features and presets.
What is the typical capacity of these ice cream makers?
Capacities vary, ranging from compact 1-quart models suitable for individuals or small servings to larger 2-quart or even XL versions that can produce 6-10 servings, ideal for families or entertaining guests.
Final Words
For effortless homemade ice cream with precise timing, models featuring a built-in compressor and timer offer the most convenience, eliminating pre-freezing steps. Consider larger capacities if you frequently serve multiple people. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your desired batch size and how quickly you want to start making frozen treats.
