Introduction
The Cuisinart ICE-20R is an automatic appliance designed to create delicious homemade ice cream, frozen yogurt, sorbet, and frozen drinks. This unit features a double-insulated freezer bowl that eliminates the need for ice and salt, simplifying the freezing process. With a capacity of 1-1/2 quarts, it can produce frozen desserts in approximately 20 minutes. Its design allows for easy addition of ingredients and mix-ins during operation.
Image: The Cuisinart ICE-20R Automatic Ice Cream, Frozen Yogurt & Sorbet Maker in red, showcasing its compact design with the motor base, freezer bowl, and transparent lid.
Important Safeguards
When using electrical appliances, basic safety precautions should always be followed to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, and/or injury, including the following:
- Read all instructions before operating the appliance.
- To protect against electrical shock, do not immerse the motor base in water or other liquids.
- Unplug from outlet when not in use, before putting on or taking off parts, and before cleaning.
- Avoid contact with moving parts. Keep hands, hair, clothing, as well as spatulas and other utensils away from the mixing paddle during operation to reduce the risk of injury and/or damage to the appliance.
- Do not operate any appliance with a damaged cord or plug, or after the appliance malfunctions or has been dropped or damaged in any manner.
- The use of attachments not recommended or sold by Cuisinart may cause fire, electric shock, or injury.
- Do not use outdoors.
- Do not let cord hang over edge of table or counter, or touch hot surfaces.
- Do not place on or near a hot gas or electric burner, or in a heated oven.
- Do not use appliance for other than intended use.
- This product is for household use only.
Parts and Features
Familiarize yourself with the components of your Cuisinart ICE-20R:
- Transparent Lid: Designed to lock onto the motor base. It has an opening for adding ingredients and mix-ins.
- Mixing Paddle: This paddle churns and aerates the ingredients in the freezer bowl to create a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Freezer Bowl: The double-insulated bowl contains a special cooling liquid between its walls. This bowl must be thoroughly frozen before use.
- Motor Base: Houses the motor that drives the mixing paddle. It is designed to sit securely on a countertop.
Before First Use
Before using your Cuisinart ICE-20R for the first time, follow these steps:
- Clean the Unit: Wash the freezer bowl, mixing paddle, and transparent lid in warm, soapy water. Rinse thoroughly and dry completely. The motor base should be wiped clean with a damp cloth. Do not immerse the motor base in water.
- Freeze the Freezer Bowl: Place the freezer bowl in the back of your freezer for at least 8 hours, or until it is completely frozen. For best results, ensure your freezer temperature is set to 0°F (-18°C) or colder. The bowl is ready when you shake it and do not hear the liquid sloshing inside.
Assembly and Operation
Follow these instructions to assemble and operate your ice cream maker:
- Assemble the Unit: Place the motor base on a clean, dry, level countertop. Insert the frozen freezer bowl into the motor base. Place the mixing paddle into the center of the freezer bowl, ensuring it rests correctly.
- Attach the Lid: Place the transparent lid on top of the motor base and turn it clockwise until it locks into place.
- Prepare Ingredients: Prepare your ice cream, frozen yogurt, or sorbet mixture according to your recipe. Ensure all ingredients are chilled before adding them to the machine.
- Start the Machine: Plug the unit into an electrical outlet. Turn the machine ON. The mixing paddle will begin to rotate.
- Add Ingredients: Immediately pour your chilled mixture through the opening in the transparent lid.
- Churn: Allow the machine to churn for approximately 15-25 minutes. The churning time will vary depending on the recipe and desired consistency. The mixture will thicken as it churns.
- Add Mix-ins: If adding solid ingredients like chocolate chips, nuts, or chopped fruit, add them during the last 5 minutes of the churning cycle through the lid opening.
- Completion: When the mixture reaches the desired consistency (typically soft-serve), turn the machine OFF and unplug it.
- Serve or Store: Remove the lid and mixing paddle. Use a rubber spatula to scrape the frozen dessert from the bowl. Serve immediately for a soft-serve consistency, or transfer to an airtight container and place in the freezer for a firmer consistency.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Proper cleaning and maintenance will ensure the longevity of your Cuisinart ICE-20R:
- Disassembly: Always unplug the unit before cleaning. Remove the lid, mixing paddle, and freezer bowl from the motor base.
- Hand Wash Components: The freezer bowl, mixing paddle, and lid should be hand washed with warm, soapy water. Rinse thoroughly and dry completely. Do not wash these parts in a dishwasher, as it may cause damage.
- Clean Motor Base: Wipe the motor base clean with a damp cloth. Never immerse the motor base in water or any other liquid.
- Storage: Ensure all parts are completely dry before reassembling or storing. Store the unit in a clean, dry place. You may store the freezer bowl in the freezer so it is ready for your next use.
Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your Cuisinart ICE-20R, refer to the following common problems and solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Machine does not start. | Unit not plugged in; power outlet malfunction; motor base not properly assembled. | Ensure the power cord is securely plugged into a working outlet. Check if the lid is correctly locked onto the motor base. |
| Mixture does not freeze or is too soft. | Freezer bowl not sufficiently frozen; ingredients not chilled; too much mixture. | Ensure the freezer bowl is frozen for at least 8 hours (or until no liquid sound is heard). Chill all ingredients thoroughly before adding. Do not exceed the maximum fill line. |
| Machine stops during operation. | Mixture is too thick; motor overheating; obstruction. | Turn off and unplug the unit. If the mixture is too thick, it may be over-churned or too dense. Remove some mixture. Allow the motor to cool if it feels hot. Check for any obstructions around the paddle. |
| Excessive noise during operation. | Improper assembly; unit on an uneven surface; motor strain. | Ensure the mixing paddle and lid are correctly seated. Place the unit on a stable, level surface. If the mixture is very thick, the motor may be working harder, which can increase noise. |
Specifications
- Model: ICE-20R
- Capacity: 1.5 Quarts
- Dimensions: 15 x 10.6 x 10 inches
- Item Weight: 9 pounds
- Material: Plastic
- Operation Mode: Automatic
- Special Feature: Automatic mixing arm, Double-insulated freezer bowl
- Product Care: Hand Wash (non-motor parts)
Warranty and Support
The Cuisinart ICE-20R comes with a three-year limited warranty from the date of original purchase. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal household use.
For warranty claims, technical assistance, or product support, please refer to the contact information provided in your original product packaging or visit the official Cuisinart website. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for warranty purposes.
