Ice cream cones are a timeless summer treat that bring joy with every crunchy, creamy bite.
Whether you prefer classic vanilla in a simple sugar cone or crave adventurous flavor combinations piled high with toppings, there’s an ice cream cone recipe for everyone.
From chocolate-dipped waffle cones to tropical fruit-filled delights, these 24+ ice cream cone recipes showcase the perfect balance of texture and taste.
They’re easy to make, fun to customize, and perfect for parties, family gatherings, or simply indulging in a sweet moment at home.
Dive into these creative recipes and discover new ways to enjoy this beloved dessert in cone form!
24+ Delicious Ice Cream Cone Recipes to Try This Summer
With so many creative ice cream cone recipes to choose from, you can transform the simple act of enjoying ice cream into a gourmet experience.
Whether you’re looking for kid-friendly funfetti cones, indulgent peanut butter cup combinations, or refreshing tropical flavors, these recipes have you covered.
The versatility of ice cream cones allows you to mix and match flavors, toppings, and textures to suit any occasion or craving.
So grab your favorite cones, stock up on ice cream, and get ready to impress your friends and family with these delicious, handheld desserts.
Chocolate-Dipped Waffle Cones
Chocolate-dipped waffle cones bring a fun and indulgent twist to the traditional ice cream cone. The crispy texture of the cone pairs perfectly with the smooth snap of chocolate, creating a satisfying treat on its own—even before the ice cream goes in. Great for celebrations or as a creative dessert base, these cones can be personalized with toppings like sprinkles or crushed nuts.
Ingredients:
- Waffle cones
- 1 cup semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or butter
- Optional: crushed nuts, sprinkles, mini chocolate chips
Instructions:
- Melt chocolate chips and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl using 20-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
- Dip the tops of each cone into the melted chocolate and gently twirl to coat evenly.
- While the chocolate is still wet, dip or roll the rim in your desired toppings.
- Place the cones upright in a glass or cone holder and refrigerate for about 15 minutes, or until the chocolate hardens.
- Scoop in your favorite ice cream and serve.
A simple chocolate dip turns basic cones into something festive and special. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just treating yourself, this easy upgrade makes any ice cream moment a bit more magical.
Funfetti Sugar Cone Treats
These funfetti sugar cones are a celebration in every bite. Bright, colorful sprinkles mixed with creamy white chocolate create a festive and kid-friendly cone perfect for parties or birthday-themed desserts. They’re cheerful, quick to make, and full of charm.
Ingredients:
- Sugar cones
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- Rainbow sprinkles
Instructions:
- Melt the white chocolate and coconut oil together in a bowl using 20-second microwave bursts, stirring in between.
- Dip the rims of the cones into the melted chocolate.
- Immediately press the dipped edges into a shallow bowl of rainbow sprinkles.
- Let cones dry standing upright until chocolate hardens—use a glass or cone stand.
- Fill with ice cream or even candy for a fun twist.
These cones don’t just hold your dessert—they become part of the celebration. Colorful, sweet, and full of personality, funfetti cones are ideal for joyful occasions and moments that call for a pop of color.
Cookies and Cream Cone Bombs
Cookies and cream cone bombs are the ultimate indulgence for cookies-and-cream lovers. This recipe layers crushed Oreos, creamy filling, and ice cream into a sugar cone, then seals the deal with a chocolate shell. It’s decadent, messy in the best way, and absolutely unforgettable.
Ingredients:
- Sugar cones
- 10 Oreo cookies, crushed
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
- Vanilla ice cream
- ¾ cup chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
Instructions:
- Mix crushed Oreos, cream cheese, and powdered sugar until combined into a soft cookie-dough-like texture.
- Press a spoonful of the cookie mixture into the bottom of each sugar cone.
- Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.
- Freeze cones for 15 minutes to firm up.
- Melt chocolate chips and coconut oil together until smooth.
- Dip the tops of the cones into the chocolate mixture to coat the ice cream.
- Freeze again for 10 more minutes before serving.
Cookies and cream cone bombs take your average cone to outrageous new heights. Rich, textured, and layered with flavor, they’re a dessert dream come true and a sure crowd-pleaser for any gathering.
Strawberry Shortcake Cones
Strawberry shortcake cones combine the classic flavors of the beloved dessert with the fun portability of an ice cream cone. With layers of crumbled pound cake, fresh strawberries, and vanilla ice cream inside a crisp cone, these treats are both elegant and playful. They’re perfect for outdoor parties, summer gatherings, or an easy weeknight dessert.
Ingredients:
- Sugar cones
- Vanilla ice cream
- 1 cup chopped fresh strawberries
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 cup pound cake, cubed or crumbled
- Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions:
- In a bowl, toss the chopped strawberries with sugar and let sit for 10 minutes to release juices.
- Spoon a layer of crumbled pound cake into the bottom of each cone.
- Add a spoonful of strawberries, then a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Repeat the layering if cone size allows.
- Top with more strawberries and a swirl of whipped cream if desired.
This sweet and fruity twist on a classic dessert packs all the flavor into a handheld cone. It’s refreshing, easy to assemble, and always a hit during warm weather.
S’mores Ice Cream Cones
S’mores ice cream cones bring together gooey marshmallows, melted chocolate, and graham cracker crumbs in a playful nod to the campfire favorite. Roasted or broiled marshmallows add a warm, toasted note that balances perfectly with the cold ice cream. It’s a great way to enjoy s’mores year-round—no fire pit needed.
Ingredients:
- Waffle or sugar cones
- Chocolate ice cream or vanilla with chocolate sauce
- Mini marshmallows
- Graham crackers, crushed
- Chocolate chips
Instructions:
- Fill cones halfway with a scoop of chocolate ice cream.
- Add a layer of mini marshmallows and crushed graham crackers.
- Top with another scoop of ice cream.
- Sprinkle with chocolate chips and more graham cracker crumbs.
- Use a kitchen torch or broiler to lightly toast the marshmallows on top (optional).
This fun and nostalgic dessert combines everything you love about s’mores in a cool, creamy cone. It’s quick to build and bursting with textures and flavors both kids and adults will love.
Caramel Apple Pie Cones
Caramel apple pie cones deliver all the comforting flavors of apple pie in a chilled, crunchy cone format. With spiced apple filling, caramel drizzle, and cinnamon ice cream, this dessert feels like a cozy fall treat—no fork required. They’re great for seasonal parties or just enjoying pie in a fun new way.
Ingredients:
- Waffle cones
- 1 apple, peeled and diced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- Cinnamon or vanilla ice cream
- Caramel sauce
Instructions:
- In a skillet, sauté diced apples in butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon over medium heat until tender. Let cool.
- Fill the bottom of each cone with a scoop of cinnamon ice cream.
- Add a spoonful of the cooled apple mixture.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce.
- Repeat layers if cone size allows and finish with a final caramel drizzle.
These cones are the perfect combination of sweet, spiced, and creamy. With every bite, you get the essence of apple pie wrapped in a convenient, no-mess dessert that’s both fun and flavorful.
Mint Chip Cone Crunch
A cool blast of mint paired with bittersweet chocolate makes this cone impossibly refreshing on hot days. Crushed chocolate‑mint cookies tucked inside each layer add a playful crunch that echoes the classic ice‑cream‑shop flavor while keeping everything neatly handheld for backyard gatherings or movie‑night treats.
Ingredients:
- Sugar cones
- Mint chocolate chip ice cream
- ½ cup chocolate‑mint sandwich cookies, crushed
- ¾ cup dark chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- Optional: extra cookie crumbs for garnish
Instructions:
- Melt chocolate chips with coconut oil in 20‑second microwave bursts, stirring until smooth.
- Dip cone rims in the melted chocolate, then into extra cookie crumbs if desired. Stand cones upright to set.
- Spoon a teaspoon of crushed cookies into the bottom of each cone.
- Add a scoop of mint chip ice cream, then another sprinkle of cookie crumbs.
- Repeat layers until the cone is filled, finishing with a final drizzle of melted chocolate before serving.
Every bite blends cool mint, creamy ice cream, and crunchy cookies—proof that a timeless flavor can still surprise when tucked into a crisp sugar cone.
Peanut Butter Cup Cones
These cones channel the irresistible duo of peanut butter and chocolate into a layered, frozen delight. Creamy peanut butter ribbons swirl through vanilla ice cream, while miniature peanut butter cups deliver bursts of rich flavor, transforming an everyday cone into a decadent experience worthy of special celebrations or late‑night cravings.
Ingredients:
- Waffle cones
- Vanilla ice cream
- ⅓ cup creamy peanut butter, slightly warmed
- 1 cup mini peanut butter cups, chopped
- ¾ cup milk chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions:
- Melt chocolate chips with butter until smooth; dip cone rims and let harden.
- Fold the warmed peanut butter into vanilla ice cream to create thick ribbons.
- Layer the peanut‑butter‑swirled ice cream and chopped peanut butter cups inside each cone.
- Finish with an extra sprinkle of peanut butter cup pieces and let cones chill for 10 minutes before serving.
Peanut butter cup cones deliver sheer indulgence in every layer—the crunch of chocolate shell, velvety peanut butter, and pockets of candy make them an instant crowd‑pleaser.
Tropical Coconut Pineapple Cones
Sunshine flavors shine in these cones, where creamy coconut ice cream meets caramelized pineapple and a hint of toasted coconut. The result feels like a mini beach vacation you can hold in your hand, perfect for pool parties or anytime you need a tropical escape.
Ingredients:
- Sugar or waffle cones
- Coconut ice cream
- 1 cup diced fresh pineapple
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
- ¼ cup sweetened shredded coconut, toasted
Instructions:
- Sauté pineapple with brown sugar and lime juice over medium heat until lightly caramelized; cool completely.
- Fill the bottom of each cone with a spoonful of coconut ice cream.
- Add a layer of caramelized pineapple, then another scoop of ice cream.
- Sprinkle toasted coconut over the top and, if desired, drizzle a bit of pineapple juice for extra zing.
- Serve immediately or freeze for a firmer texture.
Tropical coconut pineapple cones capture the essence of an island dessert—sweet, tangy, and creamy all at once—delivering vacation vibes with zero travel required.
Nutella Swirl Cones
Nutella swirl cones bring rich, hazelnut-chocolate flavor into every bite. The creamy Nutella pairs beautifully with vanilla or chocolate ice cream, while crushed hazelnuts and a hint of sea salt add texture and complexity. These cones are a luxurious, indulgent option for chocolate lovers looking for a little extra.
Ingredients:
- Sugar cones
- Vanilla or chocolate ice cream
- ½ cup Nutella
- 2 tablespoons milk
- ¼ cup crushed roasted hazelnuts
- Pinch of flaky sea salt (optional)
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, mix Nutella and milk until smooth and pourable.
- Drizzle a spoonful of Nutella into each cone, coating the inside.
- Add a scoop of ice cream, then a swirl of Nutella and a sprinkle of hazelnuts.
- Repeat layers if cone size allows.
- Finish with more hazelnuts and a pinch of sea salt if desired.
Nutella swirl cones are rich, creamy, and just the right amount of salty-sweet. They’re perfect when you’re craving something a little more indulgent, yet still fun and easy to enjoy.
Banana Split Cones
Banana split cones take all the classic elements of a banana split and pack them into a crisp cone. With layers of banana, strawberry, and chocolate ice cream, plus toppings like whipped cream, nuts, and cherries, each cone is a colorful, fun-sized version of the nostalgic diner dessert.
Ingredients:
- Waffle cones
- Banana, sliced
- Strawberry, chocolate, and vanilla ice cream
- Whipped cream
- Chopped peanuts
- Chocolate syrup
- Maraschino cherries
Instructions:
- Place a banana slice in the bottom of each cone.
- Add a scoop of strawberry ice cream, followed by chocolate, then vanilla.
- Top with whipped cream, chocolate syrup, and chopped peanuts.
- Finish with a cherry on top.
- Serve immediately or freeze briefly to firm up before serving.
These cones are festive, colorful, and full of classic flavors. They bring a playful twist to a traditional banana split while making it easier to serve at parties or picnics.
Matcha White Chocolate Cones
Matcha white chocolate cones offer a refined, slightly earthy twist on the usual cone. The creamy green tea ice cream contrasts beautifully with sweet white chocolate and adds a unique color and flavor profile. Perfect for tea lovers or anyone seeking something a little different, these cones are elegant and eye-catching.
Ingredients:
- Sugar cones
- Matcha green tea ice cream
- ¾ cup white chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- Crushed pistachios or sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
- Melt white chocolate chips with coconut oil until smooth.
- Dip the rims of the cones in the white chocolate and garnish with crushed pistachios or sesame seeds. Let harden.
- Fill each cone with a scoop or two of matcha ice cream.
- Drizzle with extra melted white chocolate if desired.
- Serve immediately or chill briefly to firm up.
These cones are a fresh, vibrant take on dessert with a touch of sophistication. The matcha adds a slightly bitter note that balances the sweetness of white chocolate, creating a flavor pairing that’s both surprising and satisfying.
Cookies and Cream Cone
Cookies and cream cone is a perfect treat for anyone who loves the classic cookie-studded ice cream flavor in a crunchy cone. Crushed chocolate sandwich cookies layered inside vanilla ice cream create a rich and satisfying texture that’s fun to eat and simple to make.
Ingredients:
- Sugar cones
- Vanilla ice cream
- 1 cup crushed chocolate sandwich cookies (like Oreos)
- Chocolate syrup (optional)
Instructions:
- Spoon a layer of vanilla ice cream into the cone.
- Sprinkle a generous amount of crushed cookies on top.
- Add another scoop of ice cream and repeat the cookie layer.
- Drizzle with chocolate syrup if desired.
- Serve immediately or freeze briefly for a firmer cone.
This classic combo never goes out of style. Crunchy, creamy, and cookie-packed, it’s an easy way to upgrade a basic cone into a nostalgic favorite.
Lemon Blueberry Cone
Lemon blueberry cone offers a bright and refreshing twist that’s perfect for warm weather. Tangy lemon ice cream paired with juicy blueberries delivers a burst of fruity flavor, and a crunchy cone adds the perfect finishing touch.
Ingredients:
- Waffle cones
- Lemon ice cream
- Fresh or frozen blueberries
- Honey or agave syrup (optional)
Instructions:
- Add a scoop of lemon ice cream to the cone.
- Top with fresh or thawed blueberries.
- Drizzle lightly with honey or agave syrup for extra sweetness if you like.
- Repeat layers as desired.
- Serve immediately.
This fruity cone is light, tangy, and naturally sweet — a perfect refreshing dessert that feels like a mini summer getaway.
Salted Caramel Pretzel Cone
Salted caramel pretzel cone balances sweet and salty flavors with a satisfying crunch. The salted caramel ice cream paired with crushed pretzels and a chocolate-dipped cone rim creates a sophisticated yet fun dessert that’s hard to resist.
Ingredients:
- Sugar cones
- Salted caramel ice cream
- ½ cup crushed pretzels
- ¾ cup dark chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
Instructions:
- Melt chocolate chips with coconut oil and dip the cone rims into the chocolate. Let set.
- Fill cones with a scoop of salted caramel ice cream.
- Sprinkle crushed pretzels over the ice cream.
- Add another scoop of ice cream and top with more pretzels.
- Serve immediately or freeze briefly for a firmer texture.
This cone offers a perfect blend of flavors and textures — creamy, crunchy, sweet, and salty — making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Berry Cheesecake Cones
Berry cheesecake cones combine creamy cheesecake-flavored ice cream with bursts of fresh berries and a crunchy graham cracker crust flavor inside a crisp cone. This dessert offers the rich indulgence of cheesecake in a perfectly portable form, great for warm afternoons or celebrations.
Ingredients:
- Sugar cones
- Cheesecake-flavored ice cream
- Fresh mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- Crushed graham crackers
- Honey or berry syrup (optional)
Instructions:
- Spoon a layer of cheesecake ice cream into the cone.
- Add a handful of fresh berries.
- Sprinkle crushed graham crackers over the berries.
- Repeat layers if space allows.
- Drizzle with honey or berry syrup if desired before serving.
These cones deliver the classic cheesecake experience with a fresh fruity twist, perfect for anyone craving a luscious yet refreshing dessert.
Rocky Road Cone
Rocky road cones take the classic chocolate, marshmallow, and nut combo to the next level by stuffing those flavors inside a crunchy cone. The mixture of textures and the familiar flavor profile make this a fun and satisfying treat for chocolate lovers.
Ingredients:
- Waffle cones
- Chocolate ice cream
- Mini marshmallows
- Chopped toasted almonds or walnuts
- Chocolate chips
Instructions:
- Fill the cone halfway with chocolate ice cream.
- Add a layer of mini marshmallows and chopped nuts.
- Add another scoop of ice cream, then sprinkle with chocolate chips.
- Serve immediately or freeze briefly for a firmer bite.
With gooey marshmallows, crunchy nuts, and creamy chocolate, these cones are an irresistible play on a beloved dessert.
Mango Coconut Cones
Mango coconut cones bring tropical flavors together in a creamy, refreshing combo. Juicy mango pieces and coconut ice cream nestled in a crisp cone create a dessert that tastes like a mini vacation—bright, sweet, and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- Sugar cones
- Coconut ice cream
- Fresh diced mango
- Toasted shredded coconut
Instructions:
- Spoon coconut ice cream into the bottom of each cone.
- Add a layer of diced mango.
- Repeat the layering if desired.
- Sprinkle toasted shredded coconut on top.
- Serve immediately or freeze briefly.
This tropical treat is perfect for warm days and anyone who loves light, fruity, and creamy desserts with a fun texture contrast.
Espresso Crunch Cones
Espresso crunch cones are perfect for coffee lovers who want a sophisticated dessert. The rich espresso-flavored ice cream combined with crunchy chocolate-covered espresso beans and a chocolate-dipped cone makes for an energizing and indulgent treat.
Ingredients:
- Sugar cones
- Espresso or coffee ice cream
- Chocolate-covered espresso beans, crushed
- ¾ cup dark chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
Instructions:
- Melt chocolate chips with coconut oil and dip the cone rims. Let harden.
- Spoon a layer of espresso ice cream into each cone.
- Sprinkle crushed chocolate-covered espresso beans over the ice cream.
- Add another scoop of ice cream and top with more crushed espresso beans.
- Serve immediately or freeze briefly for a firmer texture.
This cone delivers a perfect balance of bold coffee flavor and sweet chocolate crunch, ideal for a dessert with a little kick.
Peach Cobbler Cones
Peach cobbler cones bring the comforting flavors of warm peaches and cinnamon-spiced crumble to a cool ice cream cone. Fresh peaches and vanilla ice cream make this dessert taste like a summer classic you can hold in your hand.
Ingredients:
- Waffle cones
- Vanilla ice cream
- Fresh or canned peach slices
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- Crumbled graham crackers or streusel topping
Instructions:
- Toss peach slices with brown sugar and cinnamon.
- Spoon a layer of vanilla ice cream into each cone.
- Add a spoonful of the peach mixture, then sprinkle with crumbled graham crackers or streusel.
- Repeat layers if cone size allows.
- Serve immediately or freeze briefly.
These cones offer a sweet and slightly spiced treat reminiscent of homemade peach cobbler but with the convenience of a handheld dessert.
Pistachio Rose Cones
Pistachio rose cones are a delicate and aromatic treat combining nutty pistachio ice cream with floral rose syrup and crunchy pistachios. This elegant flavor combination is perfect for those looking to try something unique and sophisticated.
Ingredients:
- Sugar cones
- Pistachio ice cream
- Rose syrup (a few teaspoons)
- Chopped pistachios
Instructions:
- Drizzle a small amount of rose syrup inside the cone.
- Add a scoop of pistachio ice cream.
- Sprinkle chopped pistachios on top.
- Repeat layers as desired, finishing with pistachios.
- Serve immediately.
The floral notes of rose paired with creamy pistachio and crunchy nuts create a beautifully balanced cone that’s both exotic and comforting.
Chocolate Peanut Butter Swirl Cone
Chocolate peanut butter swirl cones offer the best of both worlds with rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter combined inside a crunchy cone. The smooth swirl and crunchy texture make it a decadent and satisfying dessert.
Ingredients:
- Waffle cones
- Chocolate ice cream
- Peanut butter (slightly warmed for drizzling)
- Chocolate chips
- Chopped peanuts (optional)
Instructions:
- Drizzle warmed peanut butter inside the cone.
- Add a scoop of chocolate ice cream.
- Drizzle more peanut butter on top, then sprinkle chocolate chips and chopped peanuts.
- Repeat layers if cone size allows.
- Serve immediately or freeze briefly.
This cone blends nutty and chocolate flavors perfectly, creating a creamy, crunchy treat that’s hard to resist.
Coconut Mango Swirl Cone
Coconut mango swirl cones combine tropical flavors with creamy textures. The refreshing mango puree swirled with coconut ice cream inside a crunchy cone makes this dessert bright, fruity, and deliciously satisfying.
Ingredients:
- Sugar cones
- Coconut ice cream
- Fresh mango puree
- Toasted shredded coconut
Instructions:
- Spoon coconut ice cream into the cone.
- Add a swirl of fresh mango puree.
- Sprinkle toasted shredded coconut on top.
- Repeat layers if cone size allows.
- Serve immediately or freeze briefly.
This cone is a vibrant tropical treat, perfect for sunny days or anytime you want a taste of the islands.
Cinnamon Roll Cone
Cinnamon roll cones turn the flavors of a warm cinnamon roll into a handheld ice cream treat. Creamy cinnamon ice cream, swirls of caramel, and bits of cinnamon-sugar crumble make every bite taste like dessert perfection.
Ingredients:
- Waffle cones
- Cinnamon ice cream
- Caramel sauce
- Cinnamon sugar crumble (or crushed cinnamon roll pieces)
Instructions:
- Drizzle caramel sauce inside the cone.
- Add a scoop of cinnamon ice cream.
- Sprinkle cinnamon sugar crumble on top.
- Repeat layers if cone size allows.
- Serve immediately or freeze briefly.
This cone delivers the cozy, sweet flavors of a cinnamon roll in a fun, portable form that’s great for brunch or dessert.
Conclusion
Ice cream cones are more than just a dessert; they’re a canvas for creativity and a celebration of flavor. From nostalgic classics like cookies and cream to inventive twists like matcha white chocolate or pistachio rose, the possibilities are endless. These 24+ ice cream cone recipes prove that a simple cone can be transformed into an extraordinary treat with just a few ingredients and a little imagination. Next time you want to cool down or celebrate, try one of these unique recipes and enjoy a delightful fusion of textures and tastes that will make your dessert time unforgettable.