Summer is the perfect time to indulge in cool, homemade ice cream. With the Ninja NC701 CREAMi Swirl, you can craft soft serve delights right in your kitchen, customized to your taste and dietary needs.
This versatile machine offers 13-in-1 functionality, making it ideal for creating everything from classic soft serve to dairy-free or low-sugar options. Let’s walk through a simple recipe and the steps to make your own refreshing summer treat.
Our top pick at a glance

Ninja NC701 CREAMi Swirl 13-in-1 Soft Serve Ice Cream Ma
- ✔ Model Number: NC701
- ✔ Included Components: 2 Pints, paddle, lids
- ✔ Best Uses: Soft serve, frozen yogurt, dairy-free treats

Ninja NC701 CREAMi Swirl 13-in-1 Soft Serve Ice Cream Machine (Renewed) Bundle with 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
CERTIFIED REFURBISHED: This manufacturer-refurbished unit shows limited (if any) wear and has been fully tested to deliver the...
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Gather Your Ingredients and Prepare the Mixture
Start by selecting your favorite base. You can use traditional ice cream ingredients like milk, cream, sugar, or opt for healthier or diet-specific options like low-sugar or dairy-free substitutes. For a classic vanilla soft serve, gather:
- 1 cup of whole milk or dairy-free alternative
- 1/2 cup of heavy cream or coconut cream
- 1/4 cup of sugar or sweetener of choice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Mix all ingredients thoroughly until the sugar dissolves completely. For added flavor, consider mixing in fruit purees, chocolate chips, or nuts before freezing.
Fill the Pints and Start the Freezing Process
Pour your prepared mixture into the CREAMi Swirl Pints provided with the machine. Secure the dispensing lid and ensure the mixture is evenly distributed. Place the pints into the outer bowl, then lock the lid securely.
Insert the assembled bowl into the Ninja CREAMi base. Select the appropriate soft-serve program—typically the default or a custom setting if available—and let the machine work its magic. The process usually takes about 20-30 minutes, depending on your mixture and desired consistency.
Create and Customize Your Soft Serve
Once the cycle completes, remove the pints and check the consistency. For a classic soft serve, you can serve immediately; for a firmer texture, re-spin or freeze for a few more minutes. Use the included swirl press to create beautiful, layered treats or add mix-ins like sprinkles or fruit for extra flair.
Enjoy your homemade soft serve right away or store the pints in the freezer for later. The machine’s dishwasher-safe components make cleanup simple after your summer dessert session.
Tips for Perfect Summer Soft Serve
- Chill your mixture before freezing for smoother texture.
- Use frozen fruit for refreshing fruit-flavored treats.
- Experiment with low-sugar or vegan recipes for dietary preferences.
- Clean the machine components regularly to maintain optimal performance.
- Try different flavors and mix-ins to keep summer treats exciting.
More Details on Our Top Picks
Ninja NC701 CREAMi Swirl 13-in-1 Soft Serve Ice Cream Ma

The Ninja NC701 CREAMi Swirl offers a practical way to make soft serve and frozen treats at home, perfect for hot summer days. Its 13-in-1 functionality and mix-in options let you customize your desserts easily.
Pros:
- Multiple treat options with 13-in-1 functionality
- Dishwasher-safe components for easy cleaning
- Includes recipes and mix-in compatibility
Cons:
- Refurbished units may require extra maintenance
- Requires countertop space and setup time
- Price might be high for some budgets
Best for: Home cooks wanting easy, customizable frozen treats for summer
Not ideal for: Those looking for a fully automatic, plug-and-play machine
Bottom line: A versatile summer machine for making homemade soft serve and frozen treats with ease.
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