Does frost inside an ice cream maker harm the ice cream texture?

gel ice cream maker image

Richard D

I am talking about inside the gel-filled frozen cannister. While it is stored in the freezer it may develop a coat of frost. Is this bad for the end product?

Answer
Ice crystals always affect taste.

What are the best brands of ice cream makers?

gel ice cream maker image

Cole

I want to buy an ice cream maker that works really well and is easy to use. What are some of the best brands to choose from in the $30 to $50 range?

Answer
Best budget ice-cream maker.Reviews say the countertop Cuisinart ICE-20 consistently delivers 1.5 quarts of creamy ice cream in about 20 minutes. The catch (as with all models under $100) is that you need to pre-freeze its gel-filled canister for 10 hours (depending on your freezer). An opening in the top makes adding ingredients simple, and the Cuisinart ice-cream maker cleans up easily. An automatic shut-off function prevents the motor from overheating. Users say this machine is a bit noisy, but it's quieter than its two-quart sibling, the Cuisinart ICE-30 (*est. $90). Compressor ice-cream makers don't need any pre-freezing, but they cost at least $150 more.