Summer is the perfect time to indulge in cool, homemade desserts that beat the heat. The Ninja NC701 CREAMi Swirl makes it easy to craft soft serve, frozen yogurt, or dairy-free delights right in your own kitchen, so you can enjoy personalized treats anytime.
With its versatile 13-in-1 functionality, this machine is a summer staple for poolside snacks, patio parties, or a refreshing dessert after a hot day out. Let’s walk through a simple step-by-step recipe to get you started on your homemade soft serve journey.
Our top pick at a glance

Ninja NC701 CREAMi Swirl 13-in-1 Soft Serve Ice Cream Ma
- ✔ Weight: Approximate (not specified)
- ✔ Size: Compact enough for countertop use
- ✔ Color: Varies (not specified)

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 Base
Start with your favorite ingredients—whether it’s classic vanilla, chocolate, or a dairy-free alternative. For a simple vanilla soft serve, you’ll need:
- 1 cup of milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 2 tablespoons of sugar (or a low-sugar substitute)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Mix these ingredients until well combined. For richer flavors or dietary adjustments, customize your base accordingly. Pour the mixture into the CREAMi Swirl pint, ensuring it’s not overfilled.
Freeze and Set Your Mixture
Place the filled pint into the freezer and let it chill for at least 8 hours or overnight. Proper freezing ensures a smooth, creamy texture when processed in the Ninja CREAMi.
Remember, the better your mixture is frozen, the more delightful your soft serve will be. Keep the pint upright and avoid overfilling to prevent spillage during processing.
Process and Create Your Soft Serve
Once frozen, remove the pint from the freezer. Attach it to the Ninja CREAMi machine, ensuring it’s securely in place. Select the soft serve program, then press start. Within minutes, your mixture will transform into a smooth, creamy soft serve.
If you want to add mix-ins like chocolate chips or fruit, use the swirl press and mix-in compatibility feature after processing to customize your treat.
Tips for Perfect Summer Soft Serve
- For extra flavor, swirl in fresh fruit or syrup after processing.
- Experiment with dairy-free or low-sugar bases for dietary preferences.
- Keep your machine’s components dishwasher-safe for easy cleanup after your summer party.
- Don’t forget to store extra treats in the freezer in the provided pint containers for later.
More Details on Our Top Picks
Ninja NC701 CREAMi Swirl 13-in-1 Soft Serve Ice Cream Ma

The Ninja NC701 CREAMi Swirl is a user-friendly ice cream maker that lets you craft soft serve and frozen desserts with ease. Its 13-in-1 functionality and customizable options make it perfect for summer cooling treats.
Pros:
- Easy to use and clean
- Multiple treat options including dairy-free
- Dishwasher-safe components
- Includes recipes for inspiration
Cons:
- Refurbished unit may have limited lifespan
- Requires significant freezer space
- Setup and maintenance needed for optimal performance
Best for: Pools, patios, and anyone wanting homemade summer treats
Not ideal for: Those looking for a fully automatic machine or with limited freezer space
Bottom line: Enjoy homemade summer soft serve with the Ninja CREAMi—fun, customizable, and perfect for hot days.
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