Beginner Ice Cream Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl

Vanilla Soft Serve

Name: Vanilla Soft Serve
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 24 h
Total time: 1450 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/3 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon instant vanilla pudding mix; 1 cup whole milk; 3/4 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Creami Recipes Team · March 25, 2026

Creamy vanilla soft serve dispensed right from your Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl. Uses instant pudding mix for an ultra-smooth, shop-quality texture that rivals any soft serve stand.

5.0

(1 review)

Prep

Freeze

Total

24h 10m

Servings

Creami Program: Ice Cream

Estimated Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

Protein

Fat

Carbs

Estimates based on ingredient database. Actual values may vary.

Before You Begin

What Creami model do you have?

Soft Serve Dispensing — Scoop & Swirl Only

This recipe uses the soft serve dispensing feature, which is exclusive to the Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl (NC701). You can still make the base on any Creami model and scoop it, but the soft serve texture and dispensing experience require the Scoop & Swirl. For other models, our regular ice cream recipes may give better results.

Allergen Warning — Contains: Dairy

Always verify individual ingredient labels for specific allergen information.

Directions

Makes: 16oz · Servings: 4

In a large bowl, whisk together sugar and pudding mix.

Pro Tip

Whisk until completely smooth with no lumps — this ensures an even freeze and creamy texture.

Slowly add milk, heavy cream, and vanilla. Whisk until combined and sugar is dissolved.

Pro Tip

Whisk until completely smooth with no lumps — this ensures an even freeze and creamy texture.

Make sure pint base is closed. Pour mixture into an empty Swirl Pint. Place storage lid on pint and freeze for 24 hours.

Pro Tip

Fill to the max fill line but not above — overfilling can cause the lid to pop off during processing.

Remove pint from freezer and remove lid from pint.

Pro Tip

Place on a flat, level surface in the coldest part of your freezer. Uneven freezing leads to inconsistent texture.

Select SOFT SERVE, then ICE CREAM.

Pro Tip

Ninja Creami treats are best enjoyed immediately. If refreezing, let it sit out 5-10 minutes before scooping.

When processing is complete, dispense into a chilled bowl or cone and serve immediately.

Pro Tip

If the machine struggles or the pint spins freely, let it sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before retrying.

Soft Serve Vanilla Ice Cream Gluten-Free

Common Questions

How long does Vanilla Soft Serve last in the freezer?

Once processed in the Ninja Creami, Vanilla Soft Serve is best enjoyed immediately for the creamiest texture. You can refreeze it for up to 2 weeks — just let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before re-processing with the Re-Spin function.

Which Ninja Creami models can make Vanilla Soft Serve?

This recipe works with all Ninja CREAMi models — the 7-in-1 (NC301), Deluxe, XL Deluxe 11-in-1 (NC501), and Scoop & Swirl (NC701). It also works with discontinued models like the Breeze (NC100) and original 5-in-1 (NC300). The ingredients are sized for a standard 16oz pint. If you have a 24oz Deluxe or XL Deluxe model, use our built-in ingredient scaler to adjust the quantities up.

Is Vanilla Soft Serve easy to make?

Yes! This is a beginner-friendly recipe with just 5 ingredients and 6 simple steps. It's a great recipe if you're new to the Ninja Creami.

Is Vanilla Soft Serve suitable for special diets?

Yes, this recipe is: Gluten-Free. Always check individual ingredient labels to confirm they meet your specific dietary requirements.

What if my ice cream comes out crumbly?

This is normal after the first spin. Select the Re-Spin function for a smoother, creamier result. If it's still crumbly after two re-spins, let the pint sit at room temperature for 3-5 minutes, then try again.

How much extract should I use? Can I add more for stronger flavor?

Extracts are highly concentrated — a little goes a long way. Start with the amount listed and taste the base before freezing. You can always add more, but you can't remove it. Peppermint extract is especially potent — even 1/4 teaspoon extra can make it overpowering.

What kind of milk should I use? Is whole milk the same as homo milk?

Yes — whole milk, homogenized milk (homo milk), vitamin D milk, and full-fat milk are all the same thing: 3.25% milk fat (MF). Do NOT substitute with 2%, 1%, or skim/0%. The fat is critical for creamy texture. International equivalents: UK "full-fat milk" (3.5%), Australia "full cream milk" (3.4%), France "lait entier" (3.5%). All work perfectly.

What's the difference between heavy cream, heavy whipping cream, and whipping cream?

Heavy cream and heavy whipping cream are the same thing: 36% milk fat (MF). Use either interchangeably. Whipping cream (30-35% MF) works well too, slightly lighter. Half-and-half (10-12% MF) — do NOT use as a substitute. International equivalents: UK "double cream" (48% MF — use 3/4 the amount), Australia "thickened cream" (35% MF), France "crème entière" (30-40% MF).

Can I substitute a different sweetener for granulated sugar?

Sugar does more than sweeten — it lowers the freezing point and prevents icy texture. You can substitute with: allulose (best for keto — doesn't crystallize when frozen), coconut sugar (1:1 swap but darker color), or monk fruit blend (1:1 swap). Avoid liquid sweeteners like honey or maple syrup as a full replacement — they change the liquid ratio.

How would you rate this recipe?

5.0 average from 1 rating

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