Learn all about the Cuisinart ICE-30BC Ice Cream Maker. Sleek design, 1.9-litre capacity, and effortless operation make it perfect for homemade ice cream, sorbet, and more!
The Cuisinart ICE-30BC Ice Cream Maker is a sleek, user-friendly machine designed for creating homemade frozen desserts. With a brushed stainless steel exterior, it combines elegance with durability. Its 1.9-litre capacity makes it ideal for families or small gatherings, producing enough ice cream, sorbet, or frozen yoghurt in one batch.
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Key Features
- Large Capacity: Makes up to 1.9 litres per batch.
- Efficient Freezer Bowl: The double-insulated bowl eliminates the need for ice and salt which are easily replaceable if damage occurs to yours at any time.
- Simple Operation: Just add ingredients, press the button, and let the machine do the work.
- Versatile Use: Suitable for ice cream, sorbet, gelato, and frozen yoghurt.
- Easy to Clean: The removable paddle and freezer bowl simplify post-use cleanup.
The Cuisinart ICE-30BC Ice Cream Maker has the following dimensions and weight specifications:
- Dimensions: Approximately 11 inches (27.9 cm) wide x 16 inches (40.6 cm) deep x 11 inches (27.9 cm) high.
- Weight: Around 12–13.5 pounds (5.4–6.1 kilograms), depending on the source.
These specifications are provided to ensure the appliance fits conveniently in most kitchens, though its size and the freezer bowl’s storage requirements should be considered when purchasing. There’s more information about this provided in the reviews section.
Personal Experience
The Cuisinart ICE-30BC has been used very many times in my kitchen. One summer, we hosted an impromptu ice cream party, and this machine made it effortless.
From churning out classic vanilla to experimenting with blueberry lavender sorbet, the results were consistently smooth and creamy. The machine’s quiet operation and efficiency impress me every time, as many other appliances can be quite loud.
User Experience
Many users appreciate the machine’s ability to produce high-quality frozen desserts quickly.
However, some note that the freezer bowl must be pre-frozen for at least 24 hours, which requires some planning ahead. The consistent texture and flavour of the desserts outweigh this minor inconvenience for most users.
Pricing
The Cuisinart ICE-30BC Ice Cream Maker is competitively priced in the mid-range category for home ice cream makers. You can purchase the Cuisinart ICE-BC30 from £100 – £150.00 and while prices may vary depending on the retailer and any ongoing promotions, it generally offers excellent value for its features and performance.
The initial investment is often offset by the savings from making ice cream at home rather than purchasing store-bought varieties.
Ease of Cleaning
One of the standout features of the Cuisinart ICE-30BC is its easy cleanup process. The removable paddle and freezer bowl can be easily washed with warm, soapy water. The machine’s base can be wiped clean with a damp cloth.
The simplicity of disassembly and the non-stick nature of the components make post-use cleanup quick and hassle-free, which is a significant advantage for regular use.
Pros
- High-quality, consistent results.
- Stylish design and durable construction.
- Easy to use with one-touch operation.
Cons
- Requires pre-freezing the bowl.
- Limited to one batch per freeze cycle.
Reviews of the Cuisinart ICE-30BC
Below we’ve listed five user reviews and expert insights on the Cuisinart ICE-30BC Ice Cream Maker, gathered from various trusted sources and links provided.
Dream Scoops
Reviewers highlighted the ICE-30BC’s sturdy build quality and simplicity, which ensure consistent results. Its 1.9-litre capacity is praised for accommodating family-sized batches. However, some users found the need to pre-freeze the bowl and its large freezer space requirement slightly inconvenient. Overall, it’s regarded as a durable, cost-effective machine for home use.
This review highlights the robust build, simplicity, and consistent results of the ICE-30BC while noting the inconvenience of pre-freezing the large bowl.
Read the full review on Dream Scoops
Foodal
Users appreciated the easy-lock lid, durable BPA-free mixing paddle, and the smooth texture of frozen treats produced. The machine’s transparent lid allowed for real-time monitoring, while its non-slip base enhanced stability. A drawback noted was that the paddle doesn’t scrape the bowl sides completely, sometimes requiring manual intervention for even freezing.
Foodal praises the machine’s ease of use, robust motor, and smooth textures of frozen desserts, with a few criticisms about scraping the bowl sides.
Read the full review on Foodal
Ice Cream Maker Guru
This site ranks the ICE-30BC highly (9.4/10), calling it the best value for money in its class. Users lauded its reliable performance and quality, stylish stainless steel design, and simple operation. The pre-freezing requirement of the bowl was mentioned as a limitation, but users found the included recipe book to be a great starting point.
This site ranks the ICE-30BC highly for its value for money, durable design, and recipe booklet while mentioning the pre-freezing requirement as a drawback.
Read the full review on Ice Cream Maker Guru
Homes & Gardens
In hands-on testing, this model produced excellent results across various frozen desserts, including dairy and vegan ice creams, sorbets, and frozen yoghurt. Reviewers found it easy to use and clean, although some reported minor issues like frozen dessert sticking to the sides of the bowl or unevenly distributed mix-ins.
A hands-on review that praises the ICE-30BC for its versatility and ease of use across dairy and vegan ice creams, sorbets, and frozen yoghurt.
Read the full review on Homes & Gardens
Tastylicious
This review emphasised the ICE-30BC’s simplicity and straightforward operation. Users appreciated the recipe booklet included, the robust motor, and the ability to make high-quality ice cream with minimal effort. However, the requirement for extensive pre-freezing and the potential need for a second freezer bowl for continuous use were noted as limitations.
This review emphasises the simplicity of the machine and provides a detailed guide to making ice cream, noting the need for pre-planning with the freezer bowl.
Read the full review on Tastylicious
Summary of Reviews for the Cuisinart ICE-30BC Ice Cream Maker
The reviews for the Cuisinart ICE-30BC Ice Cream Maker highlight its reputation as a reliable and user-friendly appliance for making frozen desserts at home. Here’s a detailed breakdown of common themes and insights from users and experts:
Strengths
- High-Quality Results
The ICE-30BC consistently produces smooth and creamy desserts, including ice cream, sorbet, frozen yoghurt, and even vegan options. It’s steady motor and well-designed paddle create a texture that rivals professional machines Foodal homesandgardens.com - Large Capacity
With its 1.9-litre capacity, the ICE-30BC is ideal for families or small gatherings, allowing users to prepare enough dessert in a single batch. Dream Scoops Ice Cream Maker Guru - Ease of Use
Its one-touch operation and simple assembly are frequently praised. Reviewers appreciate that it’s straightforward to use, with no complex settings or electronics. Dream Scoops Tastylicious - Elegant Design
The brushed stainless steel body is both durable and stylish, making it a countertop-friendly appliance that complements modern kitchens. Ice Cream Maker Guru Tastylicious - Good Value for Money
Most reviewers agree that the ICE-30BC offers excellent value, especially given its durable construction and consistent performance. It’s often ranked as one of the best home ice cream makers in its price range. Ice Cream Maker Guru homesandgardens.com
Limitations
- Pre-Freezing Requirement
The need to pre-freeze the bowl for at least 24 hours is seen as the machine’s biggest drawback. For some, this limits spontaneity, as users need to plan ahead. Dream Scoops Ice Cream Maker Guru - Freezer Space
Due to its large bowl size, users may find it challenging to store the bowl in smaller freezers. Keeping the bowl permanently in the freezer is a common solution. Dream Scoops Tastylicious - Manual Scraping Needed
The mixing paddle doesn’t always scrape the sides of the bowl completely, occasionally requiring users to intervene for even freezing. Foodal homesandgardens.com - Soft Serve Texture
The machine typically produces desserts with a soft-serve consistency, requiring additional freezing for a firmer texture. While this is common among similar machines, some users find it inconvenient. Tastylicious - Noisy Operation
While not excessively loud, the noise level during operation is subjective, with some reviewers finding it slightly disruptive. Foodal
Overall Impression
The Cuisinart ICE-30BC is a great choice for home users seeking high-quality, homemade frozen desserts. While the pre-freezing requirement and minor operational quirks may deter some, the machine’s ease of use, reliability, and affordability make it a top contender in its category.
It’s particularly well-suited for families and individuals who plan ahead and value consistent performance
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does the freezer bowl need to be frozen?
The freezer bowl needs to be frozen for at least 24 hours to achieve optimal results. It’s recommended to store the bowl in your freezer at all times, so it’s ready whenever you want to make ice cream.
2. Can I make multiple batches consecutively?
The freezer bowl is designed for one batch at a time. To make another batch, the bowl must be re-frozen for 24 hours. Some users purchase an extra freezer bowl to overcome this limitation.
3. Is the machine loud during operation?
The Cuisinart ICE-30BC operates relatively quietly compared to many other ice cream makers. While you will hear the motor running, it’s not disruptive.
4. What’s the best way to clean the machine?
The paddle and bowl are removable and easy to clean with warm, soapy water. The machine’s base should be wiped with a damp cloth; avoid submerging it in water.
5. Can I add mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips during churning?
Yes! The machine allows you to add mix-ins during the final stages of churning. Wait until the mixture begins to thicken, then slowly add your desired ingredients.
6. Does the machine include recipes?
Yes, the Cuisinart ICE-30BC comes with a recipe booklet featuring a variety of ice cream, sorbet, and frozen yoghurt recipes to get you started.
7. Can it make non-dairy or vegan ice creams?
Absolutely! You can use non-dairy alternatives like almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk to create delicious vegan ice creams.
8. How long does it take to make ice cream?
The machine typically takes 20–25 minutes to churn ice cream, but the exact time depends on the recipe and the temperature of the ingredients.
9. What’s the warranty on this product?
The Cuisinart ICE-30BC typically comes with a 3-year limited warranty, but it’s always a good idea to check the warranty terms provided by the seller.
10. Is it safe for kids to use?
Yes, with supervision! The simple one-touch operation makes it family-friendly and fun for children to watch the ice cream-making process.
The Final Scoop
Cuisinart ICE-30BC is an excellent choice for anyone passionate about homemade ice cream. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner, its intuitive design and reliable performance make it a worthwhile addition to your kitchen.
Have you ever tried making your own ice cream at home?
Share your experiences in the comments below, and let us know your favourite flavour combinations! If this review has tempted your taste buds, the Cuisinart ICE-30BC might be the perfect addition to your kitchen.
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Thank you for such a comprehensive review of the Cuisinart ICE-30BC Ice Cream Maker! I love how you’ve detailed the pros and cons—it really gives a clear picture for anyone considering this appliance. The easy-to-clean design and versatility for making non-dairy options are definite highlights for me.
I’m curious, have you tried using the machine for unique mix-ins like candied fruits or cookies? Also, how does the texture of non-dairy ice creams compare to traditional ones when using this machine? I’d love to hear your insights!
Looking forward to experimenting with some of the recipes you’ve mentioned!
Hi flosss57,
Thank you so much for your kind comment! I’m thrilled you found the review helpful—it’s always great to hear when the pros and cons give a clear picture. The easy cleaning and versatility for non-dairy ice creams really are standout features of the Cuisinart ICE-30BC, aren’t they?
To answer your questions:
Mix-ins like candied fruits or cookies: Yes, I’ve experimented with a variety of mix-ins, and the machine handles them beautifully! It’s best to add these during the last few minutes of churning so they distribute evenly without sinking to the bottom. Candied or caramelised fruits, crushed cookies, chocolate chunks, and even nut butter ribbons work wonderfully—feel free to get creative!Non-dairy ice cream texture: Non-dairy ice creams do tend to have a slightly different texture compared to traditional ones due to the fat content. Using rich bases like full-fat coconut milk, cashew cream, or oat milk helps achieve a creamy texture that’s closer to dairy ice cream. The Cuisinart does a great job churning non-dairy options, but incorporating a stabiliser like guar gum or xanthan gum can enhance smoothness if needed.
For more tips on achieving that soft, fluffy, and scoopable texture in any type of ice cream, you might enjoy this article I wrote: How to Make Homemade Ice Cream Soft, Fluffy, and Scoopable. It explains the ingredients, techniques, and tricks for perfecting texture in both dairy and non-dairy recipes.
I’m excited to hear you’re planning to experiment with the recipes! Let me know if you’d like tips or inspiration for mix-ins or non-dairy bases – I’d love to help.
Happy ice cream making,
Cherie
This is a well-written and informative review of the Cuisinart ICE-30BC Ice Cream Maker. You have covered the pros and cons of the machine in detail, and also provided helpful information such as how long it takes to make ice cream and how to clean the machine. Overall, this seems like a great machine for people who are looking for a user-friendly and reliable way to make homemade ice cream. However, the need to pre-freeze the bowl for 24 hours could be a drawback for some people.
The cons of the machine arouses considerable concerns for me! The pre-freezing and freezer space could be a deal breaker. As well as the noisy operation and manual scraping. I have always used the old style, electric four quart, do it in the driveway maker. Do you think the Cuisinart ICE-30BC is that much better than the driveway maker? What are the selling points of the Cuisinart ICE-30BC Ice Cream Maker over the electric crank ice cream makers?
Hi Mark,
Thank you for your thoughtful comment – I’m so glad you enjoyed the review! It’s always wonderful to connect with a fellow ice cream maker. I love that you’re using the traditional driveway-style method; it’s such a classic and hands-on approach.
I completely understand your concerns about pre-freezing the bowl and freezer space. The Cuisinart ICE-30BC is designed for convenience and simplicity, making it a great choice for indoor use and smaller batches of ice cream.
While the 24-hour pre-freezing step does require some planning, many users (myself included) find it helpful to store the bowl in the freezer so it’s ready anytime inspiration strikes.
Here’s a comparison of the two methods:
Traditional Electric Crank Ice Cream Maker (“Driveway Maker”) Process:
Prepare Ingredients: Just like the Cuisinart, you prepare your ice cream base.Layer Ice and Salt: Ice and rock salt are added around the inner container, with the salt lowering the freezing point of ice to help the mixture freeze as it churns.Churning: The electric crank churns the mixture, but you’ll need to monitor and add ice/salt as it melts.Manual Involvement: This method requires regular checking and some manual adjustments.Cleanup: Disposing of melted ice and salt can be a bit messy, and all parts need thorough cleaning.
Cuisinart ICE-30BC Selling Points:
Ease of Use: Just freeze the bowl, add your mixture, and let the machine handle the rest.No Ice/Salt Required: It uses a pre-frozen bowl instead of ice and salt.Compact and Indoor-Friendly: Quieter than the driveway maker and perfect for indoor use.Automatic Operation: No constant monitoring needed—just set it up and relax.Smaller Footprint: While it does require freezer space for the bowl, it doesn’t need extra storage for bags of ice or rock salt.
Both methods have their merits. The Cuisinart focuses on ease of use and automation, which can save time – a big plus in our busy lives. However, if you enjoy the hands-on process and making larger quantities, the traditional maker may be the better fit for you.
Once again, it’s great to connect with you. I really appreciate your kind words and thoughtful questions.
Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any more questions – I’d be happy to help!
All the very best,
Cherie
I really enjoyed reading the detailed review of the Cuisinart ICE-30BC Ice Cream Maker! One thing that stands out is the convenience of its simple one-touch operation, making it easy for anyone to use, even beginners. However, the need to pre-freeze the bowl for 24 hours seems like it could be a hassle for those wanting to make ice cream on the fly. Do you think this is a significant drawback for most users, or is the quality of the final product worth the wait? Also, I’m curious about how the texture compares to other ice cream makers—does the consistency really match professional machines? The versatility to make vegan and dairy options is definitely a plus, and the easy cleanup sounds like a big win. Overall, I think it’s a great option for home use, especially for people who are willing to plan ahead for a batch of ice cream, but I wonder if the requirement for a second freezer bowl is something most users would consider. I’d love to hear your thoughts on that!
Hi Vladimir,
Thanks for dropping by and thank you for sharing your thoughts on our article and review. I’m so glad you enjoyed the review and found it helpful. The Cuisinart ICE-30BC certainly has its strengths, especially with its user-friendly operation and versatility—it’s a great choice for both beginners and seasoned ice cream enthusiasts.
You’re absolutely right that the 24-hour pre-freezing requirement for the bowl can feel like a bit of a limitation, especially for those spontaneous ice cream cravings! For most users, though, a little planning ahead is worth it for the quality of the final product. The machine produces a wonderfully smooth and creamy consistency, which, while not quite on par with professional-grade machines, is still impressive for a home device at this price point.
As for the second freezer bowl, I think it depends on the user’s ice cream habits. If you’re someone who loves experimenting with multiple flavours or making large batches in one go, investing in an extra bowl can be a real positive. However, for occasional use, one bowl is usually sufficient.
I also love that the ICE-30BC handles vegan and dairy recipes equally well—it’s a big plus for households with diverse dietary preferences. And the easy cleanup is such a bonus, especially after enjoying a delicious homemade treat!
You can also check out our article – What is the Best Ice Cream Maker – A Detailed Review – which guides you on what you want to find in an ice cream maker and provides insights into 5 other popular ice cream makers.
Thank you again for your thoughtful observations. If you do decide to try this machine or have any further questions, I’d love to hear how it works out for you!
All the best,
Cherie