An ice cream maker is a kitchen appliance designed to create homemade ice cream. It typically consists of a bowl that freezes the mixture while a paddle churns it, incorporating air to achieve a smooth texture. Some models require pre-freezing the bowl, while others have built-in refrigeration. These machines come in various types, including manual and electric versions. Many ice cream makers allow users to experiment with flavors and ingredients, making it easy to customize treats. They are popular among dessert enthusiasts and can produce a variety of frozen desserts, such as sorbet and gelato.