How do you use an ice cream machine?

Whether you have a salt and ice ice cream maker or a self-contained freezing ice cream maker, using an ice cream machine to make your choice of ice cream is nothing but FUN! This is true for so many reasons. First, you choose your own ingredients. Second, you can entertain your entire family while doing so. Third, reap great rewards for very little work as the ice cream machine really does the work for you.

You control what kind of ice cream that you make. You can choose your own recipe and ingredients. There really is no reason to add any preservative like store bought ice cream. Some recipes require you to cook your ice cream mix that is possibly, the hardest part. The rest of the process is simple. Simply add your favorite ingredients to the mix such as strawberries, blueberries, milk chocolate or whatever you like.

Once your ice cream mixture is ready, then place your ice cream mixture in the ice cream maker chamber. Next, install the paddle, chamber and chamber cover on the machine. If you have an ice cream machine that has a self-contained freezing unit, then you are ready to go.

If you have an ice cream machine that uses a salt and ice mixture to freeze the ice cream then, add about 80% ice and 20% salt to the salt/ice container. Usually, you place such salt and ice mixture between the outside of the ice cream chamber and the inside of the outside cover the outside of the ice cream machine.

Follow your recipe directions for how long to mix your ice cream. Your ice cream maker may also tell you how long to mix your ingredients. Turn on your machine.

My wife, small children and I really enjoy the time waiting for the ice cream to be made. While we wait, we usually have great conversations as everyone is in a good mood while waiting for the ice cream. Additionally, some ice cream makers have clear bowls where you and the kids can watch the ice cream as it is being made. It is great family fun.

Usually, within about a half hour, shut off your machine. At this time, scoop out your ice cream and place it in a bowl. Usually, the ice cream is a bit soft at this time so it is your choice to serve the ice cream as is or place the bowl in a freezer for further freezing and hardening.

Typically, I pour the ice cream in a bowl and place it in a freezer while I clean the ice cream machine. If you have a self-contained freezing machine, then you only need to clean the top of the chamber, the chamber itself and chamber paddle. If you have an ice cream machine that uses salt and ice to freeze your ice cream then, you have a few more things to do.

With the salt and ice ice cream machines, you must take care to clean the ice cream unit itself as well. It is important to do so because salt is very corrosive and can destroy the metal parts of an ice cream machine. Thoroughly clean all parts of the ice cream machine. Additionally, you can spray the metal parts of the ice cream machine with a bit of WD40 or other spray oil to stop any left over salt from corroding your ice cream machine.

Now, that the clean up is done, the fun begins. Scoop out your ice cream and add whatever you would like and enjoy!