I have a Cuisinart ice cream maker.  I believe it makes a batch of 1.5 quart. It does not have a cooling unit built in. It has a tub/ container which you put in the freezer - at least 2 hours before you want to make ice cream. I generally put it in overnight. I use a recipe which came with the ice cream maker, and then modify it somewhat. Also, I mix up the ice cream mixture, and then refrigerate it an hour or two before making, to help chill it.  The directions don't say you need to do this, but I do it anyway. The recipe is basically: eggs, sugar, vanilla, milk and whipping cream.  

I got this ice cream maker to basically get away from using a more traditional ice cream maker which requires ice and salt.  I am satisfied with it.