There’s nothing quite like enjoying a refreshing bowl of homemade ice cream during the hot summer months. Whether you’re using a commercial or home ice cream machine, mastering the correct technique will allow you to effortlessly create delicious ice cream. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps and helpful tips, from preparing your ingredients to storing the finished ice cream.
I. How to Use a Commercial Ice Cream Machine
Preparation:
Essential Tools:
- Commercial Soft Ice Cream Machine: Ensure the power requirements meet the specifications.
- Professional Measuring Tools: To accurately measure your ingredients.
- Cleaning Supplies: Including safe and clean disinfectant, cloths, etc.
Basic Ingredients:
- High-Quality Heavy Cream (30-35% fat content)
- Whole Milk
- Granulated Sugar
- Vanilla Extract or other flavorings
- Emulsifiers and Stabilizers (optional)
Step-by-Step Guide:
Start by placing your commercial soft serve ice cream machine on a stable surface, ensuring it has suitable space for proper ventilation. Avoid direct sunlight or heat sources. Perform a thorough cleaning by washing all machine parts that come in contact with ice cream using warm water and safe disinfectant. Rinse thoroughly to remove any cleaning residue.
Measure your ingredients precisely and combine the sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Finally, add the heavy cream and mix well until fully combined.
- Start by pre-chilling the machine for about 15-20 minutes.
- Slowly pour the prepared mixture into the machine once it’s cooled.
- Let the machine run automatically and if need, monitor the process as the ingredients are churned into creamy ice cream.
- Prepare clean containers for the ice cream.
- Control the dispensing speed to prevent the mixture from overflowing.
- After serving, store the ice cream in a freezer at -18°C or below for optimal preservation.
Key Considerations:
- Temperature Control:
- Pre-cooling the machine should bring it to a temperature of -6°C (21°F) or lower.
- Keep the finished ice cream at a storage temperature of -18°C (0°F) or below.
2. Cleaning and Maintenance:
- Clean the machine thoroughly after each use.
- Regularly check and clean the aeration pipes and ensure the dispensing nozzle is free from debris.
3. Ingredient Handling:
- Any leftover ingredients should be refrigerated immediately.
- Ingredients should not be stored longer than 12 hours before use.
Recommendation: A High-Efficiency Commercial Ice Cream Maker Machine
In commercial operations, daily cleaning and ingredient handling can take up significant time and resources, especially during peak hours. Opting for an ice cream machine with ingredient preservation features can greatly reduce your workload while improving production efficiency. That’s why we recommend the Pecold Pre-cooled Fresh Ice Cream Maker-8618B.
Highlights of the Pecold Pre-cooled Fresh Ice Cream Maker-8618B
- Ingredient Preservation System
Equipped with an advanced pre-cooling system, this machine keeps ingredients fresh overnight, eliminating the need for daily cleaning. It offers up to seven days of hassle-free operation, significantly reducing daily maintenance tasks.
- High Production Capacity
With the ability to produce 20-25 liters per hour, this machine is ideal for meeting high demand, especially during busy periods.
- Durable Stainless Steel
Built with durable and hygienic stainless steel, it ensures food safety while extending the machine’s lifespan.
- User-Friendly Operation
Designed with an intuitive control interface, the machine is easy to operate, even for beginners. This minimizes training time and operational errors.
Why Choose the Pecold Pre-cooled Fresh Ice Cream Maker-8618B?
- Save Time and Costs: The preservation feature reduces ingredient waste and eliminates the need for daily cleaning.
- Boost Efficiency: High capacity and reliable performance make it easy to handle peak hours.
- Consistent Quality: Optimized temperature control and mixing ensure a uniform texture and flavor in every batch.
For businesses requiring consistent, high-quality production, the Pecold Pre-cooled Fresh Ice Cream Maker-8618B is more than just a machine—it’s a trusted partner for long-term success.
II. Soft Serve Home Ice Cream Maker Machine Guide
Preparation:
- Home Soft Ice Cream Machine
- Freezer Bowl (must be pre-frozen)
- Digital Scale & Thermometer for accuracy
- Mixing Tools: Such as spatulas, wooden spoons, etc.
- Storage Containers
Step-by-Step Guide:
For best results, place your freezer bowl in the freezer 24 hours in advance, ensuring it reaches a temperature of -18°C or lower. Shake the bowl lightly before use; you shouldn’t hear any liquid sloshing inside if it’s adequately frozen.
For 1 liter of ice cream, the basic ingredients are:
- 500ml of Heavy Cream
- 300ml of Whole Milk
- 150g of Sugar
- 5ml of Vanilla Extract
You can also experiment with fruit purees, chocolate chips, nuts, or cookies to add variety to your ice cream.
- Dissolve the sugar in the milk at room temperature, stirring until fully dissolved.
- Add vanilla extract and mix thoroughly.
- Whip the chilled heavy cream to soft peaks and gently fold it into the milk mixture until smooth and uniform.
- Place the pre-frozen freezer bowl into the machine and pour the mixture in, leaving about one-third of the bowl empty to allow space for expansion during churning.
- Start the machine and let it run for 20-30 minutes. You can add your chosen mix-ins about 15 minutes into the process.
Once the ice cream is churned, transfer it to an airtight container, pressing plastic wrap or parchment paper onto the surface to prevent ice crystals from forming. Store the container in the freezer, and it’s best enjoyed within two weeks.
Common Issues and Solutions
Ice Cream Too Hard or Too Soft?
Possible causes:
- Incorrect sugar ratio
- Too high or too low fat content
- Insufficient churning time
Solutions:
- Adjust the recipe proportions as needed
- Extend the churning time
- Ensure the ingredients are at the right temperature
- Ice Crystals Forming?
Possible causes:
- Unstable storage temperature
- Frequent thawing and refreezing
Solutions:
- Ensure consistent low-temperature storage
- Avoid repeatedly opening and closing the freezer
Flavor Pairing Recommendations
Try these classic flavor combinations for your homemade ice cream:
- Vanilla Base + Chocolate Chips
- Strawberry Puree + Pistachio Nuts
- Matcha Powder + Red Bean Paste
- Coffee Base + Almond Slivers
Now that you know how to properly use both commercial and home ice cream machines, you can confidently create delicious homemade ice cream at any time. Whether you’re serving up a scoop for your family or making large batches for your business, the key is in the details—from ingredient preparation to proper storage. Enjoy the process and, most importantly, the delicious results! If you would like to know more about soft serve ice cream machines, welcome to join and contact us!
