Question 1

Why does the calculator measure everything in grams?

Accepted Answer

Grams are the standard unit in professional ice cream making because they are precise and consistent. Volumetric measurements like cups or tablespoons can vary wildly depending on how ingredients are packed or scooped. This is especially true for stabilizers, which are used in very small quantities. It's recommended to use a kitchen scale which measures to 0.1g for best results.

Question 2

What are the target profiles?

Accepted Answer

Target profiles give you suggested ranges for your recipe's composition, such as sweetness, fat, and total solids. Choose your desired texture separately with the Firmness setting, and use the Serving setting to choose the temperature at which the calculator estimates firmness. These ranges are useful guidelines, not hard rules. Use them as a starting point and adjust based on your results.

Question 3

How do I target the firmness I want?

Accepted Answer

Choose a Firmness setting, such as Standard scoop or Soft scoop, then choose the Serving setting that matches how you plan to serve your ice cream. The calculator estimates how firm your recipe will be at that temperature and compares it with your chosen firmness range. Adjust your ingredients and amounts to bring the estimate into range while keeping an eye on sweetness and total solids. Changing the Serving setting changes the estimated firmness, but your firmness target stays the same.

Question 4

What does the firmness percentage mean?

Accepted Answer

Firmness is based on the percentage of your recipe's original water that is frozen at the selected serving temperature, with an adjustment for ingredients such as chocolate and nuts that make it feel firmer. A higher percentage means a firmer texture. It's an estimate to help you compare and adjust recipes; use your finished ice cream to judge the texture you prefer.

Question 5

Will Scoopulator work for the Ninja Creami?

Accepted Answer

Yes! All ice cream machines will benefit from using an ice cream calculator. Recipes which are balanced for a traditional churner will generally work well in the Ninja Creami, with no need for a respin. In a future release, Scoopulator will extra support for the Ninja Creami.

Ice Cream Calculator

Getting started

Choose your recipe type and target profile, then set firmness and serving

Target profiles are customizable

Build your recipe

Only include base ingredients

Balance your recipe

Process your recipe

Learn more about ice cream science

Calculator FAQs