The Ninja CREAMi is a very popular appliance for making homemade frozen desserts, such as ice cream, sorbet, and milkshakes. However, like any appliance, it's not perfect and has some drawbacks that can affect the user experience. This article reviews the main weaknesses of the Ninja CREAMi to help you decide if it's right for you.
1. High noise level
One of the main drawbacks of the Ninja CREAMi is its high noise level. When running, the appliance emits a noise comparable to that of a powerful blender, which can be bothersome, especially if you use it early in the morning or late at night. This high noise level is primarily due to the power of the motor, necessary to crush ice crystals and create smooth textures. For those who prefer quieter appliances, this could be a deterrent.
2. Pre-freezing time
The Ninja CREAMi requires a 24-hour pre-freezing step for the ingredients, which limits its speed of use. Unlike traditional ice cream makers that chill ingredients during preparation, the Ninja CREAMi must be used with a pre-frozen mixture. This means you need to plan ahead for your frozen dessert cravings and prepare the ingredients a day in advance. This time constraint can be frustrating for those who want quick desserts without prior planning.
3. Limited capacity
The Ninja CREAMi bowls have a capacity of approximately 16 oz (about 473 ml), which is ideal for individual or small family portions, but may be insufficient for larger families or gatherings. If you want to make frozen desserts for several people, you'll need to make multiple batches, which can be time-consuming. For some users, the limited capacity is a major drawback, especially if they're looking for a machine designed for larger portions.
4. Texture sometimes too dense for iced drinks
While the Ninja CREAMi excels at ice cream and sorbet, it's less effective at frozen drinks like slushies. Its texturizing technology is designed to produce creamy, smooth textures, which don't always match the grainy consistency desired for slushies. For those who enjoy switching between ice cream and frozen drinks, this can be a limitation, as the Ninja CREAMi doesn't offer the same level of versatility for all textures.
5. High cost of accessories and additional bowls
The Ninja CREAMi comes with a standard bowl, but many users find it convenient to buy additional bowls to prepare different flavors in advance. However, these extra bowls are quite expensive, which can increase the overall cost. Furthermore, some replacement parts, such as blades and seals, are also pricey. For those who want an all-in-one machine with included accessories, the cost of these additional accessories can be a significant drawback.
6. Maintenance and cleaning
The Ninja CREAMi has several removable parts, and while this makes cleaning easier, maintenance can become tedious with frequent use. Some parts, like the blades, require thorough cleaning to prevent residue buildup. Additionally, the bowls need to be washed after each use, which can be inconvenient if you're making several recipes in a row. For those looking for a low-maintenance appliance, this could be a deterrent.
7. Bulky and cumbersome design
The Ninja CREAMi is relatively large, and although its design is compact for a kitchen appliance, it still takes up a significant amount of counter space. For small kitchens, this size can be an issue. Some users prefer more compact appliances or those that can be easily stored away. If you have limited storage space or prefer to keep your countertop clear, this could be a drawback.
8. No self-cooling function
Unlike traditional ice cream makers that include a built-in cooling system, the Ninja CREAMi only works with pre-frozen ingredients. This means that if the mixture starts to melt, the Ninja CREAMi cannot refreeze it. This can be problematic if you want to add extra ingredients or if you need to maintain the frozen texture for a while. The lack of a self-cooling system limits its use and may require returning the bowl to the freezer.
9. Relatively high price
Finally, the Ninja CREAMi is quite expensive compared to other kitchen appliances. While it offers interesting features and great versatility, its cost may be a deterrent for some users. If you're looking for a machine dedicated exclusively to ice cream or sorbet, less expensive options might meet your needs. The Ninja CREAMi is an investment, and for those who only use it occasionally, the cost may seem excessive.
In summary: Is the Ninja CREAMi worth it despite its drawbacks?
The Ninja CREAMi is an innovative and efficient machine for those looking to make homemade frozen desserts. However, its drawbacks, including its noise level, pre-freezing time, and limited capacity, may make it a less suitable choice for some users.
If you're happy to plan ahead and appreciate the versatility of desserts, the Ninja CREAMi remains a good choice despite its drawbacks. However, if you're looking for a quiet, fast machine with a larger capacity, it might be wise to explore other options before making this investment.
In conclusion, the Ninja CREAMi offers many advantages but also has limitations that are important to consider before buying.
