Nothing elevates a scoop of ice cream quite like a crispy, homemade ice cream cone. Picture this: after a long day, you sit down with a bowl of your favorite ice cream. Maybe it’s mint chocolate chip, or perhaps a rich vanilla bean.
Whatever the flavor, having it in a homemade cone adds an extra touch of joy. But let’s be real, it’s not just about the ice cream itself. It’s also about what you can pair with it.
Think crispy nuts, sprinkles, or fresh fruit on top. You can even drizzle some homemade caramel sauce or fudge for that indulgent finish. The sky’s the limit here!
Welcome, ice cream lovers! If you’ve ever found yourself daydreaming about the crunchy delight of a freshly baked ice cream cone, then you’re in the right place.
I am a registered dietitian, food blogger, and all-around food enthusiast, and today, I’m thrilled to share my tried-and-true homemade ice cream cone recipes with you. Get ready for crispy perfection that you can enjoy with your favorite ice cream flavors.
What is Homemade Ice Cream Cones?
Homemade ice cream cones are simple, fun, and a wonderful way to elevate your ice cream experience. You have two styles to choose from in this recipe: stovetop sugar cones and delicious waffle cones.
Each offers a unique texture and flavor that pairs beautifully with any ice cream flavor you can imagine. Why buy store-bought cones when you can create your own crispy bases from your kitchen?
You will also like the following Dessert recipes!
What is the Flavor Profile of This Dish?
The flavor profile of these cones is delightful. The sugar cones have a light sweetness enhanced by a hint of lemon zest, providing that refreshing twist.
Alternatively, the waffle cones showcase a nutty, buttery essence combined with a subtle almond extract that lingers. Both options offer a perfect crunch that complements and contrasts with your favorite ice cream. Every bite takes you on a journey—a delightful dance between sweet and creamy.
Why You’ll Love This?
You might wonder why you should take the plunge into making homemade ice cream cones. First off, they are incredibly fresh and can be customized to suit any flavor preference. Secondly, the smell wafting through your kitchen will transport you back to childhood summer days.
Plus, it’s a wonderful family activity! Picture your kids eagerly waiting for their cones, ready to fill them with their favorite flavors. Trust me, this will be a summertime hit.
Ingredients
Stovetop Sugar Cones
⅔ cup plain all-purpose flour
2 large egg whites
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
½ cup superfine granulated sugar
1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
3 tablespoons whole milk
½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
pinch of fine sea salt
Waffle Cones
½ cup plus 2 tablespoons plain all-purpose flour
¼ cup (½ stick) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
1 whole egg
1 tablespoon finely chopped toasted pecans or walnuts
¼ cup plus 1 tablespoon caster sugar
1 large egg white
2 tablespoons whole milk
¼ teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon almond extract
For Dipping
Melted semisweet or bittersweet chocolate
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Gather all your ingredients on a clean countertop. This will make the whole process smoother.
Step 2: Stovetop Sugar Cones
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, mix the egg whites until slightly frothy.
- Add the melted butter, milk, vanilla extract, and lemon zest to the egg whites. Combine well.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until the batter is smooth.
Step 3: Cook the Sugar Cones
- Preheat a cone maker or a nonstick skillet over medium heat.
- Pour a small amount of batter onto the hot surface and spread it into a thin circle, about 5 inches in diameter.
- Cook for about 1-2 minutes until the edges turn golden brown.
- Quickly remove the cone from the surface and shape it around a cone mold or a rolled-up piece of parchment paper. Hold until it sets.
Step 4: Waffle Cones
- In a bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk the whole egg and egg white together. Add the melted butter, milk, and almond extract.
- Stir in the chopped nuts.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients with the wet until completely combined.
Step 5: Cook the Waffle Cones
- Preheat a waffle cone maker or a waffle iron.
- Pour the batter onto the heated surface and close the lid. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until golden.
- Remove and quickly form it into a cone shape, using the same method as above.
Step 6: Dip the Cones (Optional)
Melt chocolate in a microwave or over a double boiler. Dip the top of your cones into the melted chocolate, then sprinkle with nuts or sprinkles. Allow to cool before filling with ice cream.
Tips & Tricks
- Use Cold Ingredients: Cold milk and eggs create a smoother batter.
- Don’t Overcook: Make sure to keep an eye on your cones; they can quickly go from golden brown to burnt.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to swap in flavored extracts or add cocoa powder to your batter.
- Keep an Eye on the Temperature: If the batter spreads too much, decrease the heat slightly to ensure they cook without becoming too flat.
- Shape with Care: Work quickly when shaping the cones; they harden fast.
Nutrition Information
Homemade Ice Cream Cones Recipe Nutrition Facts
How Can You Store This Homemade Ice Cream Cone?
Homemade cones are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. Store in a cool, dry area at room temperature for up to a week. If you need to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Just ensure they’re well-wrapped to avoid ice crystals forming.
Ingredient Alternatives
If you’re missing some ingredients, here are some solid replacements:
- Flour: Whole wheat flour works well for a slightly nutty flavor and health boost.
- Butter: Coconut oil can be swapped in for a dairy-free version or for a different flavor profile.
- Almond Extract: Vanilla extract is a perfect substitute if almond isn’t available.
Homemade Ice Cream Cones Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
Ingredients
Stovetop Sugar Cones
- ⅔ cup plain all-purpose flour
- 2 large egg whites
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- ½ cup superfine granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
- 3 tablespoons whole milk
- ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- pinch of fine sea salt
Waffle Cones
- ½ cup plus 2 tablespoons plain all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup ½ stick unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 1 whole egg
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped toasted pecans or walnuts
- ¼ cup plus 1 tablespoon caster sugar
- 1 large egg white
- 2 tablespoons whole milk
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
For Dipping
- Melted semisweet or bittersweet chocolate
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
- Gather all your ingredients on a clean countertop. This will make the whole process smoother.
Step 2: Stovetop Sugar Cones
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, mix the egg whites until slightly frothy.
- Add the melted butter, milk, vanilla extract, and lemon zest to the egg whites. Combine well.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until the batter is smooth.
Step 3: Cook the Sugar Cones
- Preheat a cone maker or a nonstick skillet over medium heat.
- Pour a small amount of batter onto the hot surface and spread it into a thin circle, about 5 inches in diameter.
- Cook for about 1-2 minutes until the edges turn golden brown.
- Quickly remove the cone from the surface and shape it around a cone mold or a rolled-up piece of parchment paper. Hold until it sets.
Step 4: Waffle Cones
- In a bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk the whole egg and egg white together. Add the melted butter, milk, and almond extract.
- Stir in the chopped nuts.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients with the wet until completely combined.
Step 5: Cook the Waffle Cones
- Preheat a waffle cone maker or a waffle iron.
- Pour the batter onto the heated surface and close the lid. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until golden.
- Remove and quickly form it into a cone shape, using the same method as above.
Step 6: Dip the Cones (Optional)
- Melt chocolate in a microwave or over a double boiler. Dip the top of your cones into the melted chocolate, then sprinkle with nuts or sprinkles. Allow to cool before filling with ice cream.
Notes
- Use Cold Ingredients: Cold milk and eggs create a smoother batter.
- Don’t Overcook: Make sure to keep an eye on your cones; they can quickly go from golden brown to burnt.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to swap in flavored extracts or add cocoa powder to your batter.
- Keep an Eye on the Temperature: If the batter spreads too much, decrease the heat slightly to ensure they cook without becoming too flat.
- Shape with Care: Work quickly when shaping the cones; they harden fast.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these in advance?
Yes! Make your cones ahead of time and store them as directed above. They hold up well.
Can I freeze the cones?
While possible, it’s better to store them at room temperature to maintain crunchiness.
What’s the best way to fill the cones?
Use a scoop or a piping bag for easier filling, which will prevent melting ice cream from spilling over.
Can I add toppings to the batter?
Absolutely! Fold in chocolate chips, sprinkles, or other mix-ins for added fun.
What’s the ideal ice cream for these cones?
Any flavor works! Creamy and rich ones complement the crunch of the cone.
Conclusion
There you have it! Making homemade ice cream cones is not only enjoyable but also a fantastic way to elevate your ice cream game. The textures and flavors you create in your kitchen will surely impress friends and family.
Plus, it’s a wonderful way to spend a sunny afternoon—watching the soccer game on TV while enjoying your creation.
Grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and whip up some cones that will have everyone smiling. Let summer fun begin, one scoop at a time!