Ninja Creami Classic Vanilla Ice Cream is everything you want in a scoop—smooth, creamy, and full of rich vanilla flavor.
Made with just a few simple ingredients, it’s easy to prep and perfect for anyone who wants homemade ice cream without the hassle.
No eggs, no stovetop, no churning—just freeze your base and let the Ninja Creami do the work. The result? A silky, scoopable treat that’s perfect on its own or with your favorite dessert. Simple, satisfying, and seriously good.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Ninja Creami Classic Vanilla Ice Cream recipe is as simple as it is delicious. It uses just a few wholesome ingredients—milk, cream, a touch of sweetener, and real vanilla—for a clean, balanced flavor that’s never too sweet.
You’ll love how easy it is to make ahead, how smoothly it spins in the Creami, and how perfectly scoopable it is straight from the machine.
It’s endlessly customizable too—top it, swirl it, mix in cookies or fruit, or enjoy it plain and let that vanilla flavor shine.
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup whole milk (or 2% milk for a lighter version)
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar or allulose (for low sugar)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste
- Pinch of salt
Optional for texture:
- 1–2 tablespoons instant pudding mix (vanilla flavor, adds creaminess)
Pro Tips
- Use vanilla bean paste for a deeper, more aromatic vanilla flavor and beautiful specks.
- Mix well before freezing—ensure sugar is fully dissolved to avoid grainy texture.
- Chill the base overnight if you can before freezing—it helps with consistency.
- Spin twice if needed—if your ice cream is crumbly after the first spin, use the re-spin function.
- Customize with mix-ins after the first spin—cookies, fruit, or chocolate chips work beautifully.
Tools You’ll Need
- Ninja Creami machine
- Ninja Creami pint container with lid
- Whisk or blender
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Optional: ice cream scoop for serving
Substitutions & Variations
Dairy-Free: Use full-fat coconut milk or almond milk creamer, but expect slightly less creaminess.
Low-Carb/Keto: Use heavy cream, unsweetened almond milk, and a keto-friendly sweetener like allulose.
Egg-Free Custard Style: Add 1 tablespoon instant vanilla pudding mix for a thicker, scoopable finish.
Swirl Ideas: Add caramel, strawberry puree, or fudge swirl after the first spin.
Mix-Ins: Fold in crushed Oreos, chopped fruit, or chocolate chips using the “Mix-In” function.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prep and freeze the base at least 24 hours before spinning—it needs to be fully frozen solid.
- Store pints flat in the freezer to ensure even spinning and smooth texture.
- Label flavors and keep multiple pints ready so you can spin different varieties whenever you like.
How to Make Ninja Creami Classic Vanilla Ice Cream
Step 1: Mix the Base
In a bowl or blender, whisk together whole milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt until sugar is fully dissolved. If using pudding mix, add it here and blend until smooth.
Step 2: Pour and Freeze
Pour the mixture into a Ninja Creami pint container. Seal with the lid and place it flat in the freezer for at least 24 hours until completely solid.
Step 3: Spin
After freezing, place the pint container into the outer bowl of the Ninja Creami, lock it into the machine, and select the “Ice Cream” function. Spin once.
Step 4: Re-Spin if Needed
If the texture is crumbly, use the “Re-Spin” function once for a creamier consistency.
Step 5: Serve or Add Mix-Ins
Enjoy right away, or create custom flavors with mix-ins using the Creami’s “Mix-In” function. Serve in bowls or cones.
Leftovers & Storage
- After spinning, smooth the top, reseal the pint, and return to the freezer.
- Re-spin again if it firms up too much in storage.
- Avoid overloading with mix-ins if planning to store—best added fresh each time.
- Keeps well in the freezer for up to 2 weeks for best texture and flavor.
Recipe FAQ
1. Can I use 2% milk or non-dairy milk in this recipe?
Yes! 2% milk will make it lighter but still creamy. For non-dairy, use full-fat options like coconut milk or almond milk creamer, though texture may be slightly less rich.
2. Why is my ice cream crumbly after spinning?
That’s common! Just use the “Re-Spin” function. This helps smooth the texture and brings it to a scoopable consistency. You can even add a splash of milk before re-spinning if needed.
3. What’s the purpose of the pudding mix?
Vanilla instant pudding adds stability and a super creamy texture without eggs. It’s optional but helpful if you want a thicker, custard-like finish.
4. How long should I freeze the base before spinning?
At least 24 hours. The base needs to be completely solid for the Ninja Creami to spin it properly. Freeze the pint flat for best results.
5. Can I add mix-ins like cookies or fruit?
Yes! After the first spin, make a well in the center and use the “Mix-In” function to add crushed cookies, chocolate chips, fruit, or nuts. Avoid adding mix-ins before freezing the base.
Simple, Creamy, and Perfect Every Time
Once you make this Classic Vanilla Ice Cream in the Ninja Creami, you’ll never go back to store-bought. It’s fast, customizable, and incredibly smooth with minimal effort.
Whether you’re serving it at a summer BBQ, layering it in a sundae, or enjoying a scoop after dinner, this recipe is one you’ll return to again and again.
Let me know how yours turns out—or drop a comment with your favorite swirl-ins and flavor twists. Happy scooping!