How to use The Dessert Station Ice Cream and Treat Maker

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Allow approximately 2 minutes for the cooling process, and then proceed to detach the outer bowl. To do so, grasp the release button situated on the left side of the motor base and rotate the bowl handle clockwise. It may require some moderate force.

To prevent the outer bowl from becoming stuck on the motor base, ensure that the cavity on top of the paddle is completely dry before commencing any processing. Additionally, when processing various mixtures consecutively, be sure to rinse and thoroughly dry the paddle after processing each batch. In certain recipes, water may freeze between the paddle and the motor base, causing them to adhere together. By thoroughly drying the paddle between runs, you can prevent this issue.

1. Initial Setup: Begin by connecting the power cord and placing the appliance on a clean, dry, and level surface, such as a countertop or table. Please note that the unit will not operate if the outer bowl is installed before plugging it in.
   
2. Pint Installation: Insert the DESSERT STATION pint, which contains the frozen base, into the outer bowl. Prior to installation, ensure that the pint's lid has been removed, and confirm that the ingredients are not frozen at an angle. If they are, please refer to the section titled "The pint froze at an angle in the freezer" before proceeding.
   
3. Paddle Attachment: Attach the CreamWhizz Paddle. Press and hold the latch located on the top of the outer bowl lid, then insert the paddle into the bottom of the lid. Release the latch to securely affix the paddle.
   
4. Lid Installation: Position the lid's tab just slightly to the right of the outer bowl handle, aligning the lines on the lid and handle. Rotate the lid clockwise to lock it in place.
   
5. Outer Bowl Installation: After plugging in the unit, carefully slide the outer bowl straight onto the base with the handle centered on the unit. Twist the handle to the right to elevate the platform and secure the bowl in position. You should hear an audible click when it locks into place.

By following these steps, you can ensure the proper setup of your appliance for use.

1. Bowl Removal: To begin, detach the bowl. Hold the release button situated on the left side of the motor base, and then turn the bowl handle clockwise to release and remove it.
   
2. Lid Removal: Next, remove the lid. Press the lid unlock button and rotate it counterclockwise to unlock and lift off the lid.
   
3. Pint Removal: Lift the pint out of the outer bowl, carefully separating it from the appliance.
   
4. Paddle Removal: To remove the paddle, start by rinsing the outer bowl lid to eliminate any residual stickiness or debris that may be lodged in the paddle. Then, press the paddle latch located on top of the lid to release and remove the paddle.

These steps will allow you to disassemble the appliance safely and efficiently.

Rotate the DESSERT STATION Pint to ensure it is securely and completely installed within the outer bowl, ensuring it has properly settled into the grooves of the outer bowl (if you are adding a pint).

Subsequently, position the tab on the lid just slightly to the right of the outer bowl's handle, aligning the markings on both the lid and handle. Finally, rotate the lid clockwise to securely lock it in place.

Begin by pressing and holding the latch located at the top of the outer bowl lid. Next, insert the paddle into the lower section of the lid.

Release the latch to ensure the paddle is securely fastened. Once properly installed, you'll notice that the latch is centered, and the paddle may have a slight degree of play or looseness within its housing.

With the exception of the motor base, all components are suitable for the top rack of the dishwasher. Please avoid placing any part in the bottom rack.

Handwashing Instructions:

Clean the containers, lids, and paddle by washing them in warm, soapy water. Rinse all parts thoroughly and allow them to air-dry.

Dishwasher Instructions:

You can safely place all parts in the dishwasher's top rack, except for the motor base. Please refrain from washing any component in the bottom rack.

Motor Base Cleaning:

1. Before cleaning, ensure the motor base is unplugged. Wipe the motor base with a clean, damp cloth. Do not use abrasive cloths, pads, or brushes on the base. After each use, use a damp cloth to wipe the spindle below the control panel.
   
2. If any liquid is trapped between the motor base and the platform, elevate the platform for cleaning. Align the outer bowl with the motor base, ensuring the handle is centered below the control panel. Twist the handle to the right to raise the platform and secure the bowl in place. Utilize a damp cloth to clean the area between the base and the elevated platform.
   

Cleaning the Outer Bowl Lid:

1. Remove the paddle before cleaning the outer bowl lid, as ingredients may be trapped beneath it. Run warm water through the paddle release lever and out of the drain holes on both sides. Position the lid with the lever side facing down to facilitate complete drainage.
   
2. Detach the dark grey rubber lip seal from the underside of the outer bowl lid, located in the middle. Subsequently, clean the lid and seal either by handwashing with warm, soapy water or by placing them in the dishwasher.

To clean the motor base, use a clean, damp cloth. Ensure that the motor base is unplugged before cleaning, and avoid using abrasive cloths, pads, or brushes. After each use, wipe the spindle below the control panel with a damp cloth. The unit features a uniquely designed lip seal that automatically cleans the shaft as it retracts into the unit. This design prevents ingredients from adhering to the shaft or entering the motor base.

To clean the motor base, use a clean, damp cloth. Ensure that the motor base is unplugged before cleaning, and avoid using abrasive cloths, pads, or brushes. After each use, wipe the spindle located below the control panel with a damp cloth. The unit features a specially engineered lip seal that automatically cleans the shaft as it retracts into the unit, preventing ingredients from adhering to the shaft or entering the motor base.

The interior of the DESSERT STATION Pint may exhibit minor scratches over time due to regular use. To prevent such scratching, it is advisable to prepare ingredients in a separate bowl and refrain from using metal utensils aggressively within the DESSERT STATION Pint. Cleaning should be done using soft, non-abrasive cloths.

The maximum fill capacity is marked at 473ml.

Yes.

You can purchase more DESSERT STATION Pints in packs of 2 or packs of 4 at thedessertstation.com. 

You can use a washable marker to write on the transparent section of the DESSERT STATION Pint lid.

Yes.

It is recommended to fill the container at least halfway to ensure optimal results. If filled less than halfway, there may be a risk of getting a powdery or crumbly texture during the initial spin, which might necessitate multiple re-spins to achieve a scoopable consistency. This is because the additional space in the pint can cause the mixture to climb up the sides and not blend correctly. If this issue arises, it is advised to compact the contents within the pint and perform another spin to achieve a more uniform output.

The unit's display is programmed to automatically power off after 300 seconds of inactivity. To reactivate it, simply press the power button.

Please ensure that the unit is connected to a functional electrical outlet before proceeding with the installation of the outer bowl. Afterward, press the power button to choose a program.

Ensure that the unit is fully assembled for proper operation. If the unit is powered on but the outer bowl is not correctly installed, the installation indicator will flash. Likewise, if the paddle is not installed correctly, the installation indicator will illuminate. The Top/Full/Bottom Processing Mode animation will light up once the unit is completely assembled. It's important to note that you must select one of the Processing Mode options before the program selections become active. It's worth remembering that when selecting Top or Bottom, only Scoopable outputs can be processed, whereas all outputs can be processed with the Full Processing Mode.

The unit does not permit consecutive program runs. Between programs, lower the bowl, examine the results, and then raise the bowl before running another program.

The outer bowl is either not properly installed or not installed at all. To address this, please follow these steps: Re-insert the paddle into the outer bowl lid and attach the lid securely onto the outer bowl. Subsequently, reattach the outer bowl onto the motor base until it audibly clicks into position.

While the "Install" indicator light remains continuously lit, the "Power" light is flashing. This signifies that the outer bowl has been properly positioned, but there may be an issue with the paddle—it might be absent or not correctly installed. To address this, gently lower the platform by simultaneously pressing and holding the bowl release button on the left side of the motor base, all while turning the outer bowl handle toward the center. Ensure that the paddle is correctly installed in the lid.

To achieve optimal outcomes, refrain from processing a DESSERT STATION Pint that has experienced uneven freezing due to being stored at an angle or having been scooped out and then refrozen unevenly. Prior to refreezing, always ensure a smooth surface on your ice cream. In case the DESSERT STATION Pint has frozen unevenly, transfer it to the refrigerator to facilitate ingredient melting. Afterward, whisk the contents to ensure proper blending. When refreezing, make certain that the DESSERT STATION Pint is positioned on a level surface within your freezer.

1. Ensure your freezer's temperature is correctly adjusted, if possible. The DESSERT STATION Pint is designed to accommodate bases within the temperature range of 9°F to -7°F. If your freezer falls within this range, your pint should attain the appropriate temperature.
   
2. For optimal results, it's recommended to use an upright freezer. The use of chest freezers, which can reach extremely low temperatures, is not advised.
   
3. Confirm that the storage lid is securely placed on the pint and that the pint itself is positioned on a level surface within the freezer. To prevent potential damage to your unit, refrain from processing a pint if the ingredients have frozen at an angle or if the pint has been unevenly scooped out and refrozen. In such cases, if the pint has frozen unevenly, follow the steps of melting, whisking, and then refreezing the ingredients on a level surface in the freezer for a period of 24 hours.
   
4. Allow the pint to freeze for a minimum of 24 hours. Even though the DESSERT STATION Pint may reach freezing temperatures before the 24-hour mark, it needs additional time to achieve the necessary degree of coldness before it's ready for processing.

Our suggestion is to freeze for a minimum of 24 hours, allowing your pint ample time to attain the ideal temperature range for processing. Even though the DESSERT STATION Pint might achieve freezing temperatures before the 24-hour mark, it necessitates additional cooling before it becomes suitable for processing. (The unit is meant for bases ranging from 9°F to -7°F.) If you opt for a freezing duration of less than 24 hours, there's a likelihood that your base won't reach the coldness required for processing, leading to a probable outcome of a soft and liquid consistency in your output.

DESSERT STATION pints should exclusively contain your prepped or store-bought base, or any leftover output. Attempting to process a DESSERT STATION pint with a frozen plastic bag or liner inside can potentially harm the appliance.

Our suggestion is to freeze, process, and enjoy your treat within a 2-week period from the time you prepare your base. Although the base or processed treat may not necessarily spoil after two weeks, the flavor and texture are likely to deteriorate over time in the freezer.

It's important to note that you don't need to process your base exactly 24 hours after preparing and freezing it.

Leftover portions can be stored in Tupperware containers, but we strongly recommend using a DESSERT STATION Pint for storage, as it allows for potential re-processing. Some treats may freeze very solid and benefit from re-processing to regain their enjoyable texture. Please note that using a different container will not facilitate re-processing.

Before refreezing, flatten the top of your frozen treat using a spoon or spatula. If the treat remains soft after refreezing, you can simply scoop and enjoy it. However, if it becomes hard, you can re-process it using the same program you initially used. Be aware that re-processing with mix-ins may affect their texture and create new flavors.

Please do not use the RE-SPIN program for leftovers.

For Drinkable leftovers, place the DESSERT STATION Pint back in the freezer. To process your leftovers, add 1/2-3/4 cup (4-6 ounces) of your desired pour-in, then select FULL and choose the program that corresponds to your base.

Similar to many food items, DESSERT STATION treats are at their peak in terms of taste when enjoyed freshly made, right after processing. As time passes while in the freezer, the treat can potentially develop freezer burn and lose some of its flavor. For the best taste and texture, we suggest consuming any leftovers within two weeks of preparing the base.

You can find instructional videos on how to utilize the DESSERT STATION and access the instruction booklet by visiting User Manual.

You can utilize the MIX-IN program to seamlessly incorporate slices and chunks of mix-ins into your Scoopable outputs. Here's how it works:

After processing your base using one of the other One-Touch Programs, use a spoon to create a 1 1/2-inch wide hole reaching the bottom of the pint. Into this opening, add your desired mix-ins. During this step, it's perfectly fine for the treat to extend beyond the MAX FILL line, as long as the outer bowl lid can still comfortably close over the pint for processing.

Once you've added the mix-ins, assemble the pint on the motor base with the outer bowl, paddle, and outer bowl lid in place. Choose the same processing mode you used for your initial program, and then initiate the MIX-IN program.

Additional Notes:

• If you're incorporating mix-ins into store-bought ice cream, there's no need to process the ice cream on another program beforehand. Simply scoop the store-bought ice cream into the pint, create the hole, and add the mix-ins. Then, proceed with the MIX-IN program.
• If you're adding mix-ins to a milkshake, refrain from processing the milkshake prior to adding mix-ins. Instead, introduce the mix-ins and milk, and then process using the MILKSHAKE program.

Incorporating mix-ins into one half of the DESSERT STATION pint, without blending them into the other half, is straightforward. Here's how:

After processing your half-pint, employ a spoon to create a hole. If you selected TOP, make a 1 and 1/2-inch wide hole reaching halfway down the DESSERT STATION pint. If you chose BOTTOM, create a hole that extends to the bottom of the pint. Into this opening, add your mix-ins.

Next, choose the same processing zone you used for the initial half-pint processing, and then select MIX-IN.

Ensure both the countertop and the unit's feet are free from any debris and moisture. Verify that the unit is positioned on a level and steady surface.

If the processed base has a soft texture, place the DESSERT STATION Pint back in the freezer for a few hours until it reaches the desired consistency.

For optimal outcomes, freeze the base for a minimum of 24 hours and process it immediately after removing it from the freezer. If the processed base remains too soft, consider adjusting your freezer to a lower temperature. The DESSERT STATION is designed to process bases within the range of 9°F to -7°F.

If your recipe contains an excessive amount of fat or sugar, it may lead to this issue. To achieve better results, refer to the Inspiration Guide and follow the included recipes as a reference.

When bases are frozen in extremely cold freezers, they can sometimes have a crumbly texture. After running a One-Touch Program, you can use the RE-SPIN program to achieve a smoother and creamier frozen treat. Please note that you should NOT use the RE-SPIN program when using the MIX-IN program; in that case, proceed with the mix-in process. Using the MIX-IN program should result in a creamier treat.

If your recipe has a lower proportion of fat or sugar, it may lead to this issue. To achieve better results, consult the inspiration guide and follow the included recipes as a reference.

When preparing frozen yogurt, it's crucial to use full-fat yogurts with added sugar. Avoid using non-fat yogurts or yogurts with no added sugar in the unit.

You should NOT freeze carbonated beverages, as they will expand during freezing.

However, you CAN use a carbonated beverage as a pour-in after the freezing process.

Please do NOT create smoothies or process hard, loose ingredients like frozen fruit directly. Fruit should be crushed to extract its juice or combined with other ingredients and frozen before processing. For an example, you can refer to the Fresh Fruit Sorbet recipe in the inspiration guide, which demonstrates how to prepare a treat using crushed and frozen fruit before processing.

Furthermore, avoid processing a solid block of ice or ice cubes in the unit.

Certainly, you can create different frozen treat recipes using the Food Genie DESSERT STATION. However, it's important to note that the DESSERT STATION Recipe manual has been meticulously designed with the ideal proportions of water/liquid, fat, protein, and sugar specifically for our machine. We have confidence that our recipes will yield the best results in our machine, while recipes from other sources may yield varying levels of success.

Certainly, a number of our recipes recommend using food coloring to add a bit of flair to your treats!

Have you experimented with the no-prep inspiration chart provided in the recipe book? These recipes are designed to be effortless, using readily available fridge and pantry items to create treats with no preparation required. All you need to do is pour the ingredients into the pint and freeze!

In case you've already tried the no-prep inspiration chart and the other straightforward recipes in the recipe book, you can explore thedessertstation.com for a wealth of additional recipes. Keep an eye out for the "easy" labeled recipes, which should only take around 5 minutes to prepare.

In Food Genie DESSERT STATION recipes, you have the option to replace certain dairy ingredients with the following substitutions:

• You can use unsweetened oat milk instead of regular milk at a 1:1 ratio.
• Unsweetened coconut cream can be substituted for heavy cream at a 1:1 ratio.
• For cream cheese, you can switch to vegan cream cheese at a 1:1 ratio.
• Vegan yogurt can be used in place of regular yogurt at a 1:1 ratio.

Ensure that your substitutes are unsweetened, and if you're using coconut cream, it's a good practice to whisk it separately before using it as a replacement. Please be aware that making these dairy substitutions may alter the texture of your treat.

Keep in mind that for non-Ninja Test Kitchen recipes, we cannot provide specific recommendations for substitutions.

In Food Genie DESSERT STATION recipes, you have the option to replace light corn syrup with raw agave nectar. However, we suggest sticking to the specified ingredients and instructions in the recipes unless an alternative is provided.

When using any sugar substitutes in Scoopable recipes, it's advisable to use the LITE ICE CREAM program for processing.

Please note that we cannot provide substitutions for recipes that are not part of the Food Genie DESSERT STATION collection.

thedessertstation.com

Concerned that your base mixture might be excessively sweet? Don't fret; it won't have the same level of sweetness after freezing and processing it into a frozen treat. The colder something becomes, the less pronounced its sweetness appears!

To create an ice bath, fill a large bowl with ice and water. Submerge your pint in this ice-cold water. After your base has cooled to a temperature below 40°F, transfer the pint to the freezer.

Please note that certain recipes necessitate cooking the ingredients before freezing the base. To prevent warming up your freezer, we suggest using an ice bath to rapidly cool the base.

You have some speedy options if you can't wait for the full 24 hours of freezing:

Milkshake: Pour 2 1/4 cups of store-bought ice cream into a pint. Create a 1 1/2-inch wide hole at the bottom of the pint with a spoon. Add any mix-ins you desire (optional), then pour in 3/4 cup of milk. Select FULL and use the MILKSHAKE program for processing.

Customize Store-Bought Ice Cream: Scoop 2 1/4 cups of store-bought ice cream into a pint. Make a 1 1/2-inch wide hole at the bottom of the pint with a spoon. Add your mix-ins to the hole. For processing, use the MIX-IN program.

Just double up on every ingredient in the recipe. It's straightforward – no complications! We suggest dividing the doubled ingredients into two pints before freezing. Then, feel free to add your mix-ins to each pint for a more convenient prep process.

We suggest beginning with the Perfectly Personalized Ice Cream recipe provided in the Quick Start Guide. It's a straightforward recipe that demonstrates how to tailor both flavorings and mix-ins to create your desired treat. You can even adapt it to be dairy-free. For a visual guide, check out the video tutorial in the "How It Works" section on thedessertstation.com.

Each One-Touch Program is expertly crafted to prepare delightful treats within 1–5 minutes. These programs vary in duration and speed to suit the specific requirements of different treats. They fall into two categories: Frozen Desserts and Beverages. Frozen Desserts programs, such as ICE CREAM, LITE ICE CREAM, SORBET, GELATO, FROZEN YOGURT, and ITALIAN ICE, can be processed directly from the freezer. On the other hand, Beverages programs like COFFEECINNO, FROZEN DRINK, SLUSHI, and MILKSHAKE (with the exception of the MILKSHAKE program) involve adding a liquid 'Pour-In' after initially freezing your base. This liquid pour-in imparts a drinkable texture to the output.

The variation in program lengths and paddle-spin speeds is tailored to the specific ingredients of each treat. For instance, the ICE CREAM program is shorter and has a slower paddle-spin speed compared to the ITALIAN ICE program. This distinction arises from the fat and sugar content in ice cream, as opposed to the higher water content and minimal fat in Italian ice, resulting in differing freezing textures.

When selecting a program for your own recipe, it's crucial to focus on the ingredients rather than the desired texture. To determine the suitable program for your recipe, reference the recipes in the inspiration guide or on thedessertstation.com. Find a recipe with similar ingredients and follow the recommended program.

Using a different program than the one recommended in the recipe may lead to a less-than-ideal outcome. Each One-Touch Program is specifically designed with optimal settings for particular types of recipes, ensuring creamy and perfect results. It's important to note that choosing a different program won't magically change your recipe into a different type of treat. For instance, using the Frozen Drink program won't turn an ice cream recipe into a frozen drink; instead, it may result in an output that falls short of expectations.

If you prefer a thinner milkshake, add 2-4 tablespoons of milk and choose the RE-SPIN program. Process it until you reach your desired consistency. Keep in mind that mix-ins may settle at the bottom of thinner milkshakes.

For the thickest milkshake, process your ice cream directly from the freezer. You can also use less milk or liquid if you want a thicker texture.

When your base turns out crumbly or powdery after processing, that's the right time to use the RE-SPIN program. However, it's essential not to use RE-SPIN if you plan to use the MIX-IN program next, as running both programs consecutively may overprocess your ingredients. Also, do not utilize RE-SPIN for processing leftovers.

RE-SPIN is particularly useful for very cold bases straight from the freezer. If your freezer is set to an extremely low temperature, you might need to use RE-SPIN more often. Keep in mind that the unit is designed to process bases between 9°F and -7°F. If your freezer is too cold, try adjusting the freezer's temperature setting, placing the pint closer to the front of your freezer, or allowing the pint to sit on the counter for a few minutes before processing.

In addition to working with frozen bases, RE-SPIN can help customize the texture of your Beverages outputs. Coffeecinos, Frozen Drinks, Slushi, and Milkshakes made in the DESSERT STATION tend to be thicker than standard frozen beverages treats. If you prefer a thinner Drinkable output, add 2-4 tablespoons of your chosen pour-in and select RE-SPIN. Continue processing until you achieve your desired texture.

Requiring frequent or multiple uses of the RE-SPIN program is often due to extremely cold freezers. If your freezer is set to a very low temperature, you may find the need for RE-SPIN more frequently. The Food Genie DESSERT STATION One-Touch Programs are primarily designed to process bases within a temperature range of 9°F to -7°F, typically without the need for frequent RE-SPIN use.

However, freezer temperatures can vary significantly, and factors like freezer load and cycling can influence the temperature. If your freezer consistently operates at a colder temperature, you might need to use RE-SPIN more often. To minimize the need for RE-SPIN, consider adjusting your freezer's temperature setting, place the pint at the front of your freezer (as this area tends to be warmer), or allow the pint to sit on the counter for a few minutes before processing.

Additionally, if your recipes have a lower proportion of fat or sugar, or if you use sugar substitutes, this can also contribute to the need for more frequent RE-SPIN. The provided recipes and guidelines in the inspiration guide are crafted to achieve the best balance of ingredients for optimal results. Using these recipes as a reference can help reduce the need for RE-SPIN.

When you want to re-process DRINKABLE leftovers, like Coffeeccino, Slushi, Frozen Drink, or Milkshake, make sure to add a pour-in liquid to the top of the frozen base before re-processing. To do this, add 1/2 to 3/4 (4-6 ounces) of your desired pour-in, then select FULL and choose the program that matches your base. This will help achieve the desired texture for your re-processed drinkable treat.

If your SLUSHI contains alcohol, choose the BEVERAGES program. SLUSHI usually includes high sugar content with water or juice as a pour-in, while BEVERAGES typically involve alcohol as a pour-in.