From Whippy to Wow: Creative Desserts You Can Make with an Ice Cream Machine

When most people think of an ice cream machine, they picture classic soft serve cones on a summer’s day. But the truth is, your machine can do far more than just whip up whippy. With a little creativity, you can transform it into a profit-making powerhouse all year round. Whether you run a café, restaurant, deli, or bar, there are endless ways to keep your customers coming back for something different and exciting.

Here are a few cross-seasonal desserts and drinks that will take your menu from whippy to wow:

1. Affogato – The Italian Classic

Simple, elegant, and profitable, the affogato is a timeless dessert-coffee hybrid. Pour a shot of hot espresso over a swirl of soft serve or freshly churned ice cream, and you have an instant crowd-pleaser. It’s a menu item that works in both summer and winter – a pick-me-up treat that blends comfort with indulgence.

Pro tip: Try offering flavoured espresso shots (hazelnut, caramel, or vanilla) for an upsell.

2. Frozen Cocktails

Your ice cream machine can double as a cocktail-making tool. Daiquiris, piña coladas, frozen margaritas – the possibilities are endless. These refreshing drinks can turn your machine into a year-round profit driver, especially for pubs and bars.

Pro tip: Offer non-alcoholic mocktail versions to appeal to families and daytime customers. 

3. Açaí Bowls

Healthy, colourful, and Instagram-worthy, açaí bowls have exploded in popularity. By using your ice cream machine, you can achieve a perfectly smooth texture that sets your bowls apart. Add toppings like granola, fresh fruit, protein powder, or nut butter for a high-margin, customisable menu item.

Pro tip: Market them as a “breakfast-to-go” option for health-conscious customers. 

4. Soft Serve Sundaes with a Twist

Think beyond sprinkles and sauce. Experiment with seasonal toppings – warm apple compote in autumn, crushed candy canes in winter, or tropical fruits in summer. This keeps your sundae menu fresh and exciting all year. 

5. Boozy Desserts

Why not combine dessert with a nightcap? Add liqueurs like Baileys, Amaretto, or Kahlúa to your ice cream machine mix for an adults-only treat. Perfect for hotels, restaurants, and late-night bars looking to stand out. 

6. Frozen Yogurt Creations

Don’t forget the lighter side. Frozen yogurt is a great alternative to traditional ice cream, with endless flavour and topping possibilities. It’s also an easy way to attract health-conscious customers and expand your dessert offering. 

Why This Matters for Your Business

Your ice cream machine isn’t just a summer accessory – it’s a year-round profit generator. By diversifying your menu with options like affogatos, frozen cocktails, and açaí bowls, you can: 

• Keep sales steady through every season.
• Attract a wider range of customers. 
• Create upselling opportunities with toppings, flavours, and add-ons. 

Ready to Get Creative?

At DS Refrigeration, we supply and install the latest Pasmo Ice Cream Machines and milkshake makers designed to help businesses unlock new profit streams. From traditional soft serve to trendy açaí bowls, our equipment makes it easy to wow your customers.

📞 Call us today on 028 3751 1425
🌐 Visit: https://ds-refrigeration.co.uk/collections/ice-cream-machines