Homemade ice cream is no longer just a summer treat—it’s a year-round indulgence. With the right appliance, you can create frozen desserts, sorbets, or frozen yogurt from the comfort of your kitchen. But when it comes to choosing between compact electric units and vintage-style machines, which one suits your lifestyle better?
Let’s explore two standout models: the Cuisinart ICE-21 (1.5 Quart) and the Nostalgia WICM4L (4-Quart Electric Ice Cream Maker). We’ll compare capacity, design, performance, and overall convenience to help you find the right match for your sweet cravings.
Cuisinart ICE-21 – Compact, Fast, and Perfect for Small Batches
Key Features
- Capacity: 1.5 quarts of ice cream, sorbet, or frozen yogurt
- Design: Fully automatic with a double-insulated freezer bowl
- Time: Ready in as little as 20 minutes
- Operation: One-button start, no ice or salt required
- Cleaning: Removable bowl and paddle for easy washing
- Build: BPA-free plastic, compact footprint
Highlights
- Pre-freeze the bowl for quick and reliable results
- Great for kitchens with limited counter space
- Excellent choice for small families or occasional dessert makers
- Lightweight and portable—easy to store
Possible Downsides
- Requires freezer space to chill bowl 12–24 hours in advance
- Smaller capacity may not suit large gatherings
- SUPERIOR FUNCTION: This Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine features a mixing paddle that makes frozen treats in 20 minute…
- COOL FEATURE: Double-insulated freezer bowl eliminates the need for ice.
- CAPACITY: This ice cream maker can produce up to 1-1/2 quarts of your favorite ice cream or frozen yogurt.
- EASY TO USE: Ice cream machine features an easy-lock transparent lid with large spout to make adding ingredients simple …
Nostalgia WICM4L – Vintage Look, Party-Size Power
Key Features
- Capacity: 4 quarts—ideal for families or parties
- Design: Classic wood-style exterior with modern electric motor
- Freezing Method: Traditional rock salt and ice (no pre-freezing)
- Motor: Powerful motor churns consistently for creamy texture
- Lid: Clear see-through cover lets you monitor progress
- Cleaning: Easy to disassemble, though not dishwasher-safe
Highlights
- Makes larger quantities in a single cycle
- No need to pre-freeze—just add ice and salt and churn
- Fun nostalgic aesthetic, perfect for themed events or gifts
- Great for classic ice cream recipes
Possible Downsides
- Louder than freezer bowl models
- Requires more setup time and counter space
- HOMEMADE ICE CREAM: Enjoy a fun ice cream experience with modern convenience with our ice cream machines. Make ice cream…
- NOSTALGIA ICE CREAM KITS: Our ice cream machines for home pair perfectly with all Nostalgia ice cream kits. Try the vani…
- QUICK AND EASY: Make homemade ice cream in 20 minutes. The powerful electric motor does all the churning and work for yo…
- CONVENIENT HANDLE: Take the gelato maker to parties or the neighbor’s house. It has a carrying handle attached to the bu…
Key Comparison Overview
| Feature | Cuisinart ICE-21 | Nostalgia WICM4L |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 1.5 quarts | 4 quarts |
| Freezing Method | Freezer bowl | Ice + rock salt |
| Time to Freeze | ~20 minutes | ~30–40 minutes |
| Portability | Compact | Bulky |
| Ideal For | Small households | Family gatherings |
| Motorized | Yes | Yes |
| Requires Pre-Freezing | Yes | No |
| Price | Mid-range | Affordable |
Which Ice Cream Maker Is Right for Your Freezer?
Choose the Cuisinart ICE-21 if:
- You want a compact machine for quick dessert prep
- You don’t mind pre-freezing the bowl
- You prefer a cleaner, quieter appliance with minimal mess
Choose the Nostalgia WICM4L if:
- You need to serve a crowd or family
- You enjoy the traditional churn-and-ice experience
- You want a fun, vintage-inspired appliance that makes dessert making a shared event
Where to Buy These Ice Cream Makers
Both of these machines offer a unique dessert-making experience. Whether you prefer quick modern results or classic large-batch creations, both models are available online:
