The Cuisinart ICE-20 Ice cream maker makes things so easy!   You simply freeze the bowl ahead of time and follow the recipes that come within the manual.   I only wish that it made more at a time (the bowl is not that big), but other than that, it's great!   You have to freeze the bowl at least 6 hours before using it, but it is so nice not to have to worry about using ice!   I also think the ice cream is better after you store it in the freezer for awhile after you make it (you have to transfer it to another containter) but it turns out great.   They give you pages of really great recipes...