Making homemade ice cream with the Ninja Creami can produce results worthy of the best ice cream parlors, but there are a few tricks to know to achieve that creamy texture . I'm going to share what I've learned through experimentation with the machine, and believe me, a few details can really make all the difference!
1. Don't skip the step of freezing completely
Okay, I know you want your ice cream right away, but you have to be patient with freezing ! For a perfect texture, your mixture needs to be completely frozen, for at least 24 hours . If the mixture isn't completely frozen, you risk ending up with a less-than-ideal consistency.
My tip for those in a hurry: prepare several containers in advance. That way, you always have one on hand, ready to be turned into ice cream whenever the mood strikes!
2. Fat, your ally for cream
For a super creamy ice cream , fat plays a key role. Whether you use cream, whole milk, or even plant-based milks like coconut milk, it's this fat that will give your ice cream its body. If you use liquids that are too light, like skim milk, your ice cream is likely to be a bit grainy.
Want a lighter but still creamy version? Try it with almond butter or peanut butter . Not only does it give a perfect texture, but it also adds a delicious taste and a little nutritional boost.
3. The secret: taste before freezing
This is a crucial step that many people forget: taste your mixture before freezing it! If your mixture tastes good, your ice cream will taste good. This is the perfect time to adjust the flavors. If it's too bland, add a little agave syrup, honey, or even a touch of vanilla extract. If you want a hint of acidity, a squeeze of lemon juice can work wonders.
You need to be happy with the taste before freezing, because once the ice cream is ready, it will be too late to adjust it. So, before pouring your mixture into the tubs, take a spoonful and make sure it's already delicious!
4. Use the "Re-spin" function with a little liquid
Even if you've done everything correctly, the first spin of the Ninja Creami might give you ice cream that's a little too firm. Don't panic, that's where the "Re-spin" becomes your best friend. But to really improve the texture, add 5 tablespoons of liquid (milk, plant-based milk, or even water) before starting the re-spin. This makes your ice cream softer and creamier, and it works every time!
5. Add a little sugar or alcohol to sweeten the ice cream
To prevent your ice cream from becoming too hard after prolonged freezing, consider adding a small amount of sugar or even a small amount of alcohol to your mixture (a spoonful of rum or vodka may be enough). The sugar and alcohol help soften the texture by lowering the freezing point, which prevents the ice cream from turning into a hard block.
If you prefer to keep your recipes low in sugar, agave syrup or honey are excellent alternatives.
6. Mix well before freezing
I know it might seem obvious, but it's essential mix thoroughly before freezing it. If you're making a recipe with powders (like protein or cocoa), these ingredients can tend to clump. A quick whizz with a blender or immersion blender before pouring your mixture into the container and freezing it will prevent lumps and ensure a smooth texture.
Conclusion: Enjoy creamy ice cream with Ninja Creami!
The Ninja Creami is a fantastic machine for making homemade ice cream, but like anything, there are a few tricks to know to achieve that perfect texture that makes all the difference. From tasting your mixture before freezing, to using the re-spin function with a little liquid, and ensuring you have a good balance of fat, you'll see that with a little practice, you'll become a true homemade ice cream pro!
And don't forget, the most important thing is to have fun trying out different recipes and flavors. With Ninja Creami, the possibilities are endless!
