Cold Summer Treats

Although you don't need an ice cream maker to make ice cream, the machine's churning process develops softer, creamier, and more scoopable ice cream.

Ice cream recipes basically fall into two groups: with eggs and without.

Easy and basic, Philadelphia-style ice creams contain no eggs.

Smooth and creamy, custard-style ice creams contain many eggs or egg yolks for extra richness.

Quick and easy to make, but more challenging to scoop and serve.

Try these recipes for an interesting twist on traditional ice cream.

Sorbets are traditionally made with fruit and contain no dairy (although some might contain eggs), while sherbets often combine dairy and fruit flavors.

A healthy dairy alternative to ice cream, frozen yogurt usually contains no eggs, while gelato combines dairy and eggs.

Cool treats on a stick that kids love to make and the whole family can enjoy.

Ice cream and other frozen treats can be made with a variety of methods and machines. The main purpose of all ice cream makers is to distribute air into the mix, so that your dessert is smooth and scoopable. Makers range from $50 to several hundred dollars, but you do not need to break the bank to make good ice cream--inexpensive makers work just fine for first-time ice creamarians.