How the Ninja Creami Deluxe can spark joy

You have probably seen the viral videos of people making delicious frozen treats with their Ninja Creami Deluxe ice cream machine. (You can watch my videos on Instagram and TikTok) Who knew that a mere kitchen appliance can spark joy. They do say that a little bit of sweetness can alleviate all ills.

I recently got my hands on one to try out and it is so much fun. I have so many ice cream, milkshakes, gelato and frappe recipes I want to make with this. So far, I have made a peach sorbet, frozen coffee frappe (like an iced coffee slushie) and a strawberry frozen yoghurt.

I will be making some Asian flavoured ice creams from my childhood with the Ninja Creami, so watch this space.

Why you need a Ninja Creami in your life

The Ninja Creami Deluxe is more than an ice cream machine. It is a massive upgrade from those single use kitchen appliance of old like this one. Their unique Creamify technology is able to process ingredients with the powerful paddle, which shaves the frozen ingredients and churns it into a smooth and light ice cream.

In the box, you get 3 big tubs so that you can make multiple flavours at once. One of the only downsides is that you need to plan in advance and freeze your ingredients 24 hours before you process it with your new favourite machine.

Another feature that is great for those who are creative and like different flavours, there is a “mix-on” function where you can add biscuits, chocolate chips, chocolate bars, nuts or whatever else to your ice creams and shakes to turn it into the ultimate dessert.

I’m so thrilled that I can now make my favourite ice coffee frappe anytime I want and whip up a chocolate milkshake using organic milk and high quality chocolate when I feel like having one without going out to a fast food restaurant.

• With 11 functions, you can make a range of ice creams and frozen drinks with the set functions.
• You can easily create recipes to your own taste and dietary preferences. I love this as I can make some Asian ice cream flavours which is quite hard to find in London.
• I can now make frozen treats at home without additives or preservatives using organic ingredients and in season fruits.
• For those on special diets or if you are lactose intolerant, you can now indulge in dairy-free ice creams, high protein desserts or vegan ice creams using a variety of plant-based ingredients.

Top tips for using the Ninja Creami Deluxe

Every Ninja Creami Deluxe comes with a quick start guide and a recipe booklet. This has detailed instructions on how to use this model of the Ninja Creami Deluxe. The most useful page is the error page, especially when you start using it. I had an E1 and E10 error message and the “Install” light was flashing. I checked in the guide and it said that the paddle was not installed properly. I adjusted it and restarted the machine again. And everything worked like clockwork.

1. Preparation is Key: Ensure your base mixtures are frozen for at least 24 hours before processing. This helps achieve the creamy texture the machine is known for.
2. Layer Mix-Ins Strategically: When adding mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips, layer them evenly to ensure consistent distribution throughout your dessert.
3. Use the Re-Spin Function: If your dessert isn’t as creamy as you’d like, use the Re-Spin function to refine the texture.
4. Experiment with Recipes: Try different bases, such as dairy-free milks or protein powders, to customise your creations for specific dietary needs.
5. Clean Thoroughly: All removable parts are dishwasher-safe, but handwashing can help maintain their longevity. Always ensure the paddle and tubs are completely dry before storing.
6. Optimise Freezing: Use a flat surface in your freezer to keep the tubs level during freezing and prevent uneven textures.
7. Follow Safety Guidelines: Always assemble the machine correctly and inspect parts like the paddle for damage before use.

Some popular Ninja Creami Deluxe recipes to get you started

• Peach Sorbet – a one ingredient frozen vegan friendly dessert using just one can of tinned peaches, a perfect treat for the warmer days of summer. So simple to make with the Ninja Creami Deluxe, just freeze and creamify. (Note: you can make pineapple sorbet with just canned pineapple too.)
• Classic Vanilla Ice Cream – A timeless favourite made with milk, cream, sugar, and vanilla bean paste for a rich and creamy texture.
• Peanut Butter Ice Cream – A decadent high protein dessert that can be made nut-free, combining peanut butter (or alternatives) with cream and sugar.
• Strawberry Frozen Yoghurt – A healthier option blending Greek yoghurt, fresh strawberries, and a hint of honey or sugar if you prefer.
• Ice Coffee Frappe – this is one frozen drink that I will be making on repeat this summer. An ice coffee frappe or ice coffee slushi if you will. If you love ice coffees, you will love this one.

This is the strawberry yoghurt after the first pass with the “lite ice cream” setting. It needed to go through the “re-spin” stage to get it a little lighter. If you don’t finish this whole tub in one go, you can refreeze it in the tub and run it through the re-spon again when you are ready for the rest.

Some Asian flavours I would like to make are red bean ice cream, durian ice cream, yuzu sorbet, sweet corn ice cream, teh tarik frappe and so many more.

What is the difference between the Ninja Creami Deluxe vs Ninja Creami

• The Deluxe model has larger 710 ml tubs, which hold 50% more ice cream than the original Ninja Creami (which has 473 ml tubs).
• The Deluxe offers 11 programs, including settings for ice cream, gelato, sorbet, smoothie bowls, and more, while the original Ninja Creami has fewer options.
• Both models allow you to create low-sugar, keto, dairy-free, and vegan frozen treats, but the Deluxe provides dual processing, meaning you can make two separate mix-in flavours in one batch.
• Both machines are simple to operate, but the Deluxe offers more versatility for those who want extra customisation and you can check out the models and prices on the Very website.

Questions about the Ninja Creami answered

• What can you make with the Ninja Creami Deluxe?
  • Ice cream, gelato, sorbet, milkshakes, smoothie bowls, frozen yoghurt, frappe, slushies and more.
• How easy is it to use?
  • User-friendly rotary dial, one-touch settings, and dishwasher-safe components.
• What are the standout features?
  • 10 preset programs, large 709ml tubs, and the ability to customise recipes for dietary needs.
• What are the downsides?
  • Requires 24-hour freezing time for base mixtures and has a relatively large footprint.

Are there any ice cream flavours that you like but can’t find in the shops? Let me know in the comments below.