Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, you may support this site at no extra cost to you.
If you’ve been seeing the Ninja CREAMi all over TikTok, Black Friday ads, or even Oprah’s Favorite Things list, you’re not alone. The Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl (model NC701) is one of the most talked‑about ice cream makers right now – especially for people who want high‑protein, low‑sugar, or fully customized frozen treats at home.amzn.to+1
In this Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl review, I’ll walk you through what it actually does, who it’s best for, the real pros and cons, and a few smart alternatives and accessories to consider before you click “add to cart.”
Whether you’re a parent wanting a fun dessert station for the kids, or you’re just tired of spending $$$ on pints of “healthy” ice cream, this guide will help you decide if the NC701 deserves a spot on your countertop.
Credit:Amazon
Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl Review: What Exactly Is It?
The Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl Ice Cream and Soft Serve Maker (NC701) is a 13‑in‑1 frozen treat machine that turns your homemade (or store‑bought) bases into:
- Classic ice cream
- Soft‑serve style swirls
- Sorbet
- Milkshakes
- Frozen yogurt
- Fruit‑based whips
- High‑protein / lower‑calorie “CreamiFit” creations
…all at the touch of a button.amzn.to+1
Unlike old‑school ice cream makers, you don’t need to freeze a big metal bowl. Instead, you freeze your mixture directly in the included 16 oz Ninja CREAMi 2‑in‑1 pints, then let the machine’s Creamify Technology spin and shave it into a smooth, scoopable or swirlable texture.amzn.to+1
It’s part of the wider Ninja CREAMi lineup, but this specific “Scoop & Swirl” model adds something big:
👉 a soft‑serve handle with 3 speed settings, so you can pull perfect swirls straight into a cone like you’re running your own mini ice cream shop.amzn.to
Quick Specs (NC701 at a Glance)
- Brand: Ninja
- Model: NC701 (Scoop & Swirl / CREAMi Swirl)amzn.to+1
- Capacity: 16 oz pints (2 included)
- Programs: 13 one‑touch programs (mix of scoop + soft‑serve styles)amzn.to+1
- Materials: Plastic + stainless steel
- Special features:
- Creamify Technology
- Digital display
- Programmable one‑touch presets
- Automatic shut‑off and built‑in timeramzn.to
- Care: Dishwasher‑safe, BPA‑free pints, lids, paddle, and swirl pressamzn.to
- Size: Approx. 15.15″ L x 10.03″ W x 17.51″ H, 20.8 lbsamzn.to
Key Features & Benefits (In Plain English)
Let’s break down what actually makes this machine different – and whether that matters for real‑world use.
1. Scoop or Swirl: 13 Programs to Play With
The NC701 gives you 13 one‑touch programs, split between classic “scoop” functions and newer soft‑serve style presets. That includes options like:
- Ice cream
- Sorbet
- Lite ice cream
- Gelato
- Milkshake
- Frozen yogurt
- Fruit whip
- Frozen custard
- CreamiFit (for protein‑focused recipes)
- Soft serve & swirled frozen yogurt programsamzn.to+1
Why it’s a big deal:
You’re not locked into just one texture. If you want a thick, scoopable protein ice cream one day and a creamy soft‑serve cone the next, you can do both with the same machine.
2. Creamify Technology for Ultra‑Smooth Texture
Under the hood, Creamify Technology basically shaves and blends your frozen base at high speed, creating that ultra‑fine micro‑ice texture that makes ice cream feel creamy instead of icy.amzn.to+1
It’s especially helpful if you’re:
- Using lower‑fat dairy or dairy‑free milks
- Experimenting with sugar substitutes
- Turning protein shakes into dessert
The machine is forgiving, even when your recipe isn’t perfect.
3. CreamiFit Program: High‑Protein & Lower‑Calorie Friendly
One of the stand‑out additions on this model is the 2‑in‑1 CreamiFit program, designed to better handle lower‑calorie, high‑protein bases in a single spin.amzn.to+1
If you:
- Drink a lot of protein shakes
- Follow high‑protein or macro‑tracking diets
- Want dessert that fits your calories and macros
…this program is basically built for you. Instead of a sad icy brick, you get a genuinely creamy, spoon‑able dessert.
4. Total Ingredient Control for Dietary Needs
Ninja leans hard into the idea that you can make:
- Low‑sugar treats
- Dairy‑free or lactose‑free desserts
- Lower‑calorie options
- Vegan frozen desserts
- Nut‑free options for allergy householdsamzn.to
To be clear:
The machine doesn’t automatically make things “healthy” – you still control what you pour in. But it does give you a way to turn better‑for‑you ingredients into something that feels like “real” ice cream. That’s powerful if you’re trying to stick to a plan without feeling restricted.
5. Built‑In Soft‑Serve Handle (3 Speeds)
The soft‑serve tap is the star of the show. The automatic soft‑serve handle has three speed settings, so you can gently swirl for kids or go full send for tall cones.amzn.to
Practical wins:
- Great for birthday parties and family nights
- Lets you layer flavors and mix‑ins as you dispense
- Genuinely fun – people want to use it
This is the feature that really separates the Scoop & Swirl from the original CREAMi and even the Deluxe for soft‑serve lovers.
6. Mix‑Ins: Turn Your Pint Into a Sundae
The machine includes a Mix‑In style function that lets you add chunks of:
- Cookies
- Candy
- Brownies
- Fruit
- Nuts
…and fold them in toward the end, so they’re evenly distributed instead of sinking to the bottom.amzn.to+1
That’s how people are recreating things like:
- Copycat Blizzard‑style treats
- Cookie‑loaded soft serve
- Fruit‑packed sorbets
7. Easy Cleanup & Dishwasher‑Safe Parts
The NC701 comes with:
- (2) Ninja CREAMi 2‑in‑1 pints with nozzles + storage lids
- Outer bowl + lid
- Creamerizer paddle
- Dispensing lid with swirl press
- Pull‑out drip tray
- 30+ recipe booklet
All the key food‑contact parts (pints, lids, paddle, swirl press) are BPA‑free and dishwasher safe, which genuinely lowers the friction of using it during busy weeks.amzn.to+1
Who Is the Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl Best For?
Based on the features, reviews, and how this category is used in real life, here’s who will get the most out of the NC701.
Great Fit For:
1. Families with Kids (or Grandkids)
The soft‑serve handle + cones = instant entertainment. Kids can pull their own swirls, choose mix‑ins, and experiment with flavors. It’s an easy “activity + dessert” combo that doesn’t require you to leave the house.
2. Health‑Conscious Ice Cream Lovers
If you’re into:
- High‑protein desserts
- Calorie tracking
- Controlling sugar and additives
…the combination of the CreamiFit program and the ability to use your own ingredients is huge. You can turn your favorite protein shake or Greek yogurt mix into something that actually feels like a treat.The Verge+1
3. People with Dietary Restrictions (Dairy‑Free, Vegan, Nut‑Free, etc.)
Store‑bought dairy‑free or allergy‑friendly ice cream can be pricey and limited in flavor. With the Scoop & Swirl, you can:
- Pick your base (oat, coconut, almond, soy, etc.)
- Avoid specific allergens
- Customize sweetness and flavor
You’re basically building your own mini frozen dessert lab.
4. Ice Cream Nerds & Kitchen Gadget Lovers
If you already geek out over kitchen gear, this is very much a “fun toy” category item – but one that actually gets used regularly, especially in summer or if you’re into fitness/recipes year‑round.
Might Not Be Ideal For:
1. Anyone Wanting Huge Party‑Sized Batches
Each pint is 16 oz. That’s great for individuals, couples, or small families – but if you want to serve a big crowd at once, you’ll either need multiple pints prepped or consider the Ninja CREAMi Deluxe NC501, which uses larger 24 oz tubs.Amazon+1
2. People Who Hate Planning Ahead
You do need to freeze the base for several hours (often overnight) before spinning. This is true for all CREAMi models and most recipe recommendations. If you only ever want truly instant ice cream, this category of machine might annoy you.
3. Very Tight Budgets
The Scoop & Swirl sits at a mid‑to‑premium price point and is often positioned as an upgrade over the original CREAMi. You can occasionally find deals or renewed units, but it’s still a considered purchase.
How to Use the Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl (NC701)
Here’s how the process typically looks from freezer to cone:
Step 1: Prep Your Base
Mix your base in one of the included pints. That might be:
- A traditional mixture of cream, milk, sugar, and flavoring
- A lighter mix using skim milk or dairy‑free alternatives
- A protein shake + a bit of pudding mix or yogurt
- Blended fruit + a little sweetener for sorbet
Tip: Avoid huge chunks of frozen fruit or hard mix‑ins at this stage – they’re better added later using the mix‑in function.
Step 2: Freeze the Pint
Pop the lid on and freeze the pint flat in your freezer for at least 12–24 hours (overnight is safest). This gives you a fully solid base that the Creami can shave smoothly.
Step 3: Process in the CREAMi
Once frozen:
- Remove the pint from the freezer and let it sit for a few minutes (this helps the texture).
- Load it into the outer bowl, attach the lid/paddle assembly, and lock it into the machine.
- Choose your program based on what you’re making (ice cream, soft serve, CreamiFit, etc.).
- Press start – the machine will spin, shave, and blend the frozen block into a creamy texture.
If the texture is still a bit crumbly, you can usually run another cycle (often “Re‑Spin” on many CREAMi models).
Step 4: Add Mix‑Ins (Optional)
If you’re adding chunks (cookies, nuts, candy, etc.), you typically:
- Dig a small well in the center
- Pour in your mix‑ins
- Run a mix‑in style program to evenly distribute everything through the pint
Step 5: Scoop or Swirl
Now you choose your experience:
- Scoop straight from the pint into bowls
- Or attach the swirl nozzle / handle and pull yourself a soft‑serve cone
This is where the Scoop & Swirl stands out: you can actually dispense soft serve the way it’s meant to be served, not just scoop it from a tub.
Pros & Cons of the Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl
No product is perfect, and this one definitely has trade‑offs. Here’s the honest breakdown.
Pros
- 13 programs = serious versatility
From soft serve to sorbet to high‑protein treats, you get a lot of modes to play with in one machine.amzn.to+1 - Dedicated soft‑serve handle
The 3‑speed tap is a huge plus if you love cones or want that “frozen yogurt shop” experience at home.amzn.to+1 - Great for high‑protein & custom “diet” desserts
CreamiFit and Creamify Technology make it much easier to get a creamy result from lighter or alternative bases.amzn.to+1 - Dishwasher‑safe, BPA‑free parts
The pints, lids, paddle, and swirl press are all designed to be easy to clean.amzn.to - Trusted brand & strong category ranking
Ninja as a brand has a reputation for high‑performing kitchen appliances, and this model sits at the top of Amazon’s ice cream machine category.amzn.to+1 - Backed by serious buzz
Between viral social media recipes, Black Friday features, and Oprah’s 2025 Favorite Things shout‑out, this machine clearly hit a cultural sweet spot.
Cons
- Requires overnight freezing
There’s no getting around it: you need to plan ahead and freeze your bases. This is a limitation across the CREAMi line, not just this model. - Can be loud
Reviews and hands‑on tests mention that the machine is fairly noisy while spinning – more like a blender than a quiet kitchen gadget. - 16 oz pints may feel small for larger families
If you’re serving more than 2–3 people, you’ll likely be prepping multiple pints or running the machine more than once. The Deluxe model (NC501) is better for big batches.Amazon+1 - Pricey compared to basic ice cream makers
You’re paying for the programs, Creamify Technology, and soft‑serve tap. Budget‑focused buyers might prefer the original Creami or a more traditional compressor‑style machine. - Some recipe trial‑and‑error
Especially if you’re making very high‑protein or sugar‑free recipes, you might need a few tries to dial in your perfect texture.
Alternatives, Accessories & Related Offers
If you’re still on the fence, it helps to see where the Scoop & Swirl sits in the broader CREAMi ecosystem and related accessories.
1. Ninja CREAMi Deluxe NC501 (11‑in‑1, XL Capacity)
The Ninja CREAMi Deluxe (NC501) is the “big sibling” in the lineup. Key differences:
- 11 programs (vs 13), but still a ton of variety
- Uses 24 oz XL tubs that hold ~50% more than the standard pints – better for families and gatherings
- Focuses more on large batch capacity and multi‑layer spins (top/bottom of tub) than soft‑serve dispensing
Credit:Amazon
Choose the Deluxe if:
- You rarely care about soft‑serve cones
- You often serve 3–5 people at a time
- Bigger batch size > swirl tap for you
Choose the Scoop & Swirl (NC701) if:
- Soft‑serve style cones are a must
- You like the idea of smaller, more personal pints
- You want the max program count (13) including CreamiFit and fruit whip
2. Renewed / Refurbished NC701 Options
There are Amazon Renewed versions of the NC701 that include the same core functionality but are refurbished and tested for full operation, often bundled with extended warranty coverage. These can be a smart way to save if you want the Scoop & Swirl experience at a slightly lower price.Amazon
3. Extra Pints & Lids
If you’re going all‑in, extra pints are almost a must. There are:
- Official or compatible 4‑pack pint + lid sets for NC700/NC701 series
- Swirl pints designed specifically for the Creami Swirl / Scoop & Swirl machinesAmazon+1
These are perfect if:
- You want to prep several flavors for the week
- Different family members like different recipes
- You meal‑prep high‑protein desserts as part of your routine
4. Ninja CREAMi / Swirl Cookbooks
You’ll find dedicated Ninja CREAMi and Swirl recipe books on Amazon, including beginner‑friendly ones with color photos and step‑by‑step recipes for gelato, frozen yogurt, milkshakes, and more.amzn.to+1
They’re not strictly necessary – Ninja includes 30+ recipes with the machine – but having a cookbook dedicated to alternative bases (protein, vegan, keto, etc.) can speed up your learning curve and reduce failed experiments.
Final Verdict: Is the Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl Worth Buying?
If you want a serious soft‑serve experience at home, plus the flexibility to make everything from indulgent chocolate ice cream to high‑protein desserts, the Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl (NC701) is one of the best all‑rounders on the market right now.
You’ll love it if:
- Soft‑serve cones and swirls are your happy place
- You’re excited to experiment with high‑protein, dairy‑free, or lower‑sugar recipes
- You like having clear one‑touch programs instead of guessing
You might want to look elsewhere (or at the Deluxe model) if:
- You need bigger batch sizes for a large household
- You can’t stand planning ahead to freeze pints
- You’re just looking for the cheapest possible ice cream maker
Overall, for families, fitness‑focused folks, and anyone obsessed with frozen treats, the Scoop & Swirl hits a really sweet spot between fun, flexibility, and performance.
When you’re ready, use your preferred link or button on this page to check the latest price, bundles, and color options on Amazon – deals on this model tend to sell out quickly during sale events.
FAQ: Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl (NC701)
1. Do I really have to freeze the base for 24 hours?
You’ll get the best results if you freeze your base at least overnight. Many testers and reviewers recommend a full 24 hours for consistent texture, especially with higher‑protein or lower‑fat recipes.
Some people experiment with shorter times, but if the center isn’t fully frozen, you may get uneven texture or a more slushy result.
2. Can I use store‑bought ice cream or yogurt in the Scoop & Swirl?
Yes, one fun trick with CREAMi machines is using store‑bought ice cream, yogurt, or sorbet:
- Partially freeze or firm it up in the pint
- Run an appropriate program
- Use the soft‑serve handle to dispense it as a swirl
This is especially handy if you want to revive slightly melted ice cream or remix flavors with mix‑ins.
3. Is the Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl loud?
It’s not whisper‑quiet. Most users and reviewers describe it as comparable to a blender while it’s running – noticeable, but only for a short time during each spin cycle.
If noise is a big concern, you might want to run it earlier in the evening rather than late at night.
4. How much counter space does it take?
The NC701 is taller than many traditional appliances, roughly 15″ deep, 10″ wide, and over 17″ tall.amzn.to
You’ll want to:
- Measure under‑cabinet clearance if it’s living on the counter
- Keep pints in the freezer and only bring the machine out when you need it if space is tight
5. Is the Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl good for weight loss?
The machine itself isn’t a weight‑loss device, but it can be a helpful tool if you’re trying to manage calories or macros because:
- You control the ingredients and serving size
- You can build high‑protein, lower‑sugar recipes that still taste like dessert
Just remember: your results depend on what you put in the pint. Always factor your ingredients into your overall nutrition plan if you’re following medical or dietary advice.
6. What’s the difference between the Scoop & Swirl and the Ninja CREAMi Deluxe?
Quick comparison:
- Scoop & Swirl (NC701)
- 13 programs
- 16 oz pints
- Dedicated soft‑serve handle and swirl functionality
- Great for cones and personal‑sized servingsamzn.to+1
- CREAMi Deluxe (NC501)
- 11 programs
- Larger 24 oz XL tubs (50% more than standard)
- Better for families and big batches
- Focus on capacity and multi‑layer spins rather than a swirl tap.
Choose based on whether you care more about soft‑serve swirls or bigger batches.
7. Are the pints and parts dishwasher safe?
Yes. The included 2‑in‑1 pints, lids, paddle, and swirl press are BPA‑free and dishwasher safe, which makes cleanup much easier.amzn.to
Always double‑check the manual for recommended rack placement (typically top rack) and avoid harsh cycles if you want to maximize lifespan.
