Which Ninja Creami Should I Buy? What are the features and the differences?

All of the original versions, regardless of how many functions they have, use pint containers that are 16 ounces big. The Ninja Creami Deluxe machine uses 24-ounce containers. While Ninja calls the deluxe containers pints, they are not actually pints. They hold 1.5 times as much ice cream as the original containers.

No, they are not. The original Ninja Creami containers are 16 ounces and the Deluxe containers are 24 ounces. They cannot be used interchangeably.

You can make two different flavors at the same time if you use the top or bottom function in the DELUXE model. The base recipe will be used to make the entire 24 ounces. But, when you process mix-ins, you can process just the top with your mix-in of choice. Scoop out the top and then add a different mix into the bottom half. So, you'll end up with two different flavors. Same base but different mix-ins.

It is recommended to freeze your treat for 24 hours before processing with both the original models as well as the deluxe version. Your freezer should be between 9 and -7 degrees Fahrenheit. However, you can make milkshakes with premade ice cream without having to freeze it before processing.

The model number will vary based on the retailer where you purchase the Ninja Creami. The number of containers and the color of the machine will also be different model numbers.

Yes! All you need to do is multiply the Ninja Creami recipe by 1.5 times to make enough to fill the Ninja Creami Deluxe container. All of the Ninja Creami recipes on this blog have the option to automatically change the measurements to the 1.5X size for the deluxe version. In the recipe card, click on the button that says 1.5X and the measurements will automatically change for you!

No, you don't have to. Although many of the official Ninja Creami recipes in the recipe book that comes with the Ninja Creami do use heavy cream. The problem with using heavy cream in the Ninja Creami is that it gets overmixed and basically starts to turn into butter. A traditional ice cream maker works with heavy cream better than the Ninja Creami does, regardless of which model you have. The functionality of the Ninja Creami overprocesses the heavy cream. So, I'd recommend that you use half and half or a mixture of milk and cream. You still want the creaminess that the fat adds, but you don't want it to be so high in milkfat that it becomes an almost greasy feeling. And yes, you can make creamy ice cream with half and half instead of heavy cream! It works great!