The Ninja CREAMi, a 7-in-1 dessert maker, has garnered significant attention, particularly on platforms like TikTok, where users showcase its ability to transform simple ingredients into creamy, indulgent treats. This $230 machine claims to simplify the process of creating ice cream, sorbets, milkshakes, and more, offering a seemingly magical solution for dessert lovers. I tested the device to see if it lives up to the hype and if it’s truly worth the price.
What’s Included with the Ninja CREAMi
I tested the deluxe version of the Ninja CREAMi, priced at $250, which expands the machine’s capabilities to 11 different desserts. The unit itself is about the size of a large blender, so it may need to stay on the counter depending on your kitchen storage. The set includes the motor base, blade, outer bowl, two 24-ounce deluxe pints with storage lids, and a recipe booklet with 30 different ideas to kickstart your dessert-making journey.
The pints are marked with maximum fill lines based on the type of dessert being made, and each pint yields about six servings. Once prepared, desserts can be stored for up to two weeks, though fresh servings are always recommended for the best texture.
What I Made with the Ninja CREAMi
To test the Ninja CREAMi, I tried two different recipes from the included booklet: a dairy-free coconut vanilla ice cream and a fresh orange-mango sorbet. For the ice cream, I combined coconut milk, coconut cream, sugar, and vanilla. After mixing the ingredients, I froze the mixture for 24 hours before processing it in the machine. The sorbet, which I improvised, used frozen mango and orange juice (though a small note: the manufacturer suggests adding a liquid base when using frozen fruit to avoid texture issues).
The CREAMi boasts an “easy-to-use” three-step process: prepare your base, freeze overnight, and then process. However, I found the process to be more time-consuming than anticipated, primarily due to the mandatory overnight freezing. After prepping the ingredients, I had to wait another full day before using the machine, which made satisfying a spontaneous craving more challenging.
Once everything was set up, I used the motor base to process the ingredients by selecting the ice cream setting. The machine’s processing was quick, taking just two to three minutes, and it was a satisfying, almost mesmerizing experience to watch the transformation.
The Final Product: Impressive Results, but Room for Adjustment
The results were striking. The coconut vanilla ice cream had a smooth, creamy texture with a pleasant balance of coconut and vanilla. However, I found the recipe’s sugar content to be a bit too sweet for my taste and would adjust it in the future. The sorbet also impressed with its fresh, tangy flavor, though the orange juice slightly overpowered the mango. For a more balanced taste, I’d reduce the juice and add some water to the mix.
A standout feature of the Ninja CREAMi is the mix-in option, allowing users to add ingredients like chocolate, fruit, or nuts to create more complex flavors. I used matcha powder and matcha-flavored KitKats to make a milkshake. The machine finely processed the add-ins, which is ideal for small items like Oreos, M&Ms, or peanuts.
Would I Recommend the Ninja CREAMi?
While the final products were impressive, I have mixed feelings about the Ninja CREAMi. The results were undeniably good, and the process of watching the machine work was enjoyable. However, the necessity of planning ahead—freezing the pints a day before use—makes it less convenient for spontaneous dessert cravings. It’s like the feeling of realizing you can’t satisfy your craving for Chick-fil-A on a Sunday; while you may want the treat, you can’t have it immediately.
For those who regularly enjoy frozen desserts or excel at meal prepping, the Ninja CREAMi could be a great addition to your kitchen. It offers the ability to create custom flavors and ensures that you know exactly what goes into your treats. If you regularly buy ice cream or milkshakes, this machine could help you save money in the long run, especially if you’re into making protein-based or low-sugar ice creams.
However, if you’re someone like me—who craves frozen treats on a whim and doesn’t always have ice cream stocked in the freezer—it might not be the best fit. For occasional milkshakes, I would still prefer going to a local shop, like CookOut, where the milkshakes are always on point. And if I’m in the mood for a simple ice cream or milkshake, a blender could likely yield similar results, especially with a little creativity and the right techniques.
In conclusion, the Ninja CREAMi is a fun and versatile tool for those who enjoy experimenting with frozen desserts and have the patience to plan ahead. However, its high price point and time-consuming process may not make it the best choice for casual dessert lovers.
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