Ice cream makers

DELIGHT YOUR FAMILY AND GUESTS BY SERVING THEM YOUR OWN DELICIOUS HOMEMADE FROZEN TREATS ALL SUMMER LONG

- MOLLY CLEARY, GINEVRA BENEDETTI

BEFORE YOU BUY

There are two types of ice cream makers available. There are self-freeze compressor models, which freeze the contents while churning the mix. Then there are those that you need to pre-freeze for between 12 and 24 hours, either the bowl or the bowl and contents. As the former need to house a compressor and motor, they tend to be larger in size, while the latter require you to plan ahead.

Prices vary hugely, from around the £50 mark for a basic model to large all-in-one appliances that cost several hundred. Deciding which to plump for often comes down to how much you'll use it. Consider whether you're happy to plan ahead or keep a bowl in your freezer. Also, think about how much storage space you have available to store the machine.

Compact kitchens will struggle to accommodate the bigger ice cream makers for one major reason. Like a fridge or freezer, they need to be kept level for 12 hours or so in order for their compressor to work properly. However, you can't beat them for convenience. A second bowl for making different flavours or types, and useful features such as digital controls or a timer, will hike up the price.

Gelato and regular ice cream are very similar, but there are some key differences. Italian gelato contains more milk and less cream, and is whipped more slowly for a less aerated finished result. This will leave you with a creamier consistency and some models will come with different modes to accommodate the differences, as well as different paddles. A more simple ice cream maker will only come with one paddle though, which will be a good catchall for the majority of frozen treats.