How do gelato machines work?

Gelato is easy to make at home. Especially if you use a special gelato machine. But it is important that you know how gelato machines work.

While most ice cream makers can also make gelato, you should choose a specially designed maker for the best results.

In this article, we will discuss the following:

  • How to identify the best Gelato ice cream machine?
  • What is a commercial ice cream machine?
  • What is an industrial ice cream machine?
  • What is a professional ice cream machine?

Homemade ice cream is a delicious frozen treat.

It allows you to experiment and be adventurous with flavors and toppings.

Plus, you can control the amount of sugar, milk, and water in the recipe.

But how do the machines work and what is their secret? Let's take a look and learn more about these amazing tools:

Table of Contents

  • How to identify the best Gelato ice cream machine?
  • compressor style
  • Freezer bowl style
  • basic machines
  • The add-in-spout
  • How do commercial ice cream machines work?
  • What is an industrial ice cream machine?
  • How is a professional ice cream machine?

How to identify the best Gelato ice cream machine?

There are hundreds of gelato and ice cream machines available on the market.

Basic models are limited to a single mixing bowl and come with several preset features, intermediate and professional level machines offer them with more complex features.

Ice cream machine

No matter what you choose, you'll need to understand that making ice cream or gelato isn't just about the machine.

There are multiple variables that can make or break your gelato.

Some recipes are easier than others, you'll need to get the right ingredients, the right flavors, and the right timing.

Sure, a good machine will help you a lot, but you will have to master these details to get the best result.

There are three main types of ice cream machines:

  • Models of freezer bowls.
  • Compressor models.
  • Automatic salt and ice machines.

Here are the important features to consider when choosing any small batch gelato machine model:

compressor style

Compressor models are more expensive, but they are very efficient and you can get a fresh batch in as little as 30 minutes; you don't have to pre-freeze the container and you can produce multiple batches without waiting;

Freezer bowl style

It is the cheapest alternative; the container must be removed and placed in a freezer for at least 12 hours before it can be used; Depending on your needs, the freezer bowl can be quite effective;

basic machines

They have a capacity of around 0.7 liters, while the largest can reach up to 2 liters. The ice and salt models reach up to 4 liters.

The add-in-spout

It's a great feature if you want to add nuts or candy.

How do commercial ice cream machines work?

Commercial gelato machines are oriented to:

  • Coffee shops.
  • Restaurants.
  • Other commercial establishments.

Unlike the small machines that are designed for home users.

It is also important to know how commercial ice cream machines work.

These machines are designed for intensive daily use. They have a capacity of more than 30 liters of gelato per hour.

Additionally, commercial machines are designed to run multiple flavors at the same time with minimal flavor overlap.

These machines are generally available as all-in-one units.

But they are also available in separate units:

  • Mixer.
  • Freezer.
  • Separate storage unit.

Especially if you choose an older used gelato machine.

What is an industrial ice cream machine?

Industrial gelato machines are similar to commercial machines, but are designed for large-scale use.

They are oriented to:

  • Great restaurants.
  • Production facilities.
  • Other large-scale manufacturers.

They usually have a capacity of more than 100 liters per hour.

In the same way, they have complex accessories and features that allow them to work with several flavors at the same time.

How is a professional ice cream machine?

professional ice cream machine

Professional gelato machines are very similar to commercial machines.

They have special accessories to control the amount of ingredients, flavors and ingredients.

Separate freezers and display cabinets for professional machines are usually also provided.

These machines are focused on performance and precision.

They include complex monitoring systems, software and sensors to ensure that the final product is perfect.

Most manufacturers offer this type of ice cream equipment for sale along with professional training.

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