In the old days, home made ice cream was a rare and special treat. While the ice cream was enjoyed by all, the lengthy laborious task of turning the crank on the old fashioned ice cream maker was not enjoyed! Fortunately, today one can buy an electric ice cream maker that takes the task out of the treat. This simplification can make home made ice cream a more frequent event for those who own an ice cream maker.

An important advantage to making ice cream at home with an ice cream maker is that you can control the ingredients. You can use skim milk or low fat yogurt, for instance. By adding fruit and healthful sweeteners, and eliminating artificial flavors and colors you can make your own special brand of healthy frozen dessert when you have an ice cream maker.

KitchenAid makes a 2 quart ice cream maker called the KICA0WH which eliminates the need for rock salt. It is reported to be easy to use. This ice cream maker retails for around $80. Rival makes a 4 quart ice cream maker that costs under $25. It is called the 8704. It requires a great deal of rock salt and ice, but is reported to make good ice cream.

A more expensive option from Rival is the F69206. This ice cream maker makes 6 quarts of ice cream in an old-fashioned looking wooden tub. Although it costs around $175, it still requires rock salt and ice. In addition to this, it is also reported to be noisy. However, this ice cream maker is reported to last for many years, which might make it worth the higher price for some people.

For around $250, you can eliminate the rock salt and ice with the 1.5 quart Cuisinart ICE-50BC. Some reviewers, however, complained of flimsy parts and ice cream that is not firm enough. To get a really luxury model of ice cream maker, look to the Musso Lussino Dessert Maker 4080. This good looking Italian machine is heavy, takes up a great deal of counter space, and costs around $600. But if it's fancy Italian styled frozen desserts you want, the Musso Lussino can deliver the goods. Low maintenance and easy to clean, the desserts are reported to be of best quality.