11 Best Waffle Cone Makers Of 2023
The smell of freshly made waffle cones is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. Top them with your favorite scoop of ice cream and you have yourself a dessert that is impossible to say no to.
If you are as obsessed with ice cream as we are, you’d know that freshly made waffle cones taste 100 times better than the store-bought variety.
Luckily, you don’t have to run to the nearest ice cream parlor every time you want to treat yourself. You can get a tub of your favorite flavor of ice cream and make your own waffle cones at home!
For ice cream lovers, a waffle cone maker is an essential kitchen gadget that allows you to make warm waffle cones that are well caramelized, easy to shape, and able to crisp when cool.
So, what are the best waffle cone makers? The best waffle cone makers allow you to bake the waffle batter into crispy brown waffle cones in just a matter of minutes. They are durable, affordable, and versatile appliances that are both easy to use and clean.
Read on for a detailed buyer’s guide on how to choose the best waffle cone maker and our top picks of the 11 best ones!
What Is A Waffle Cone Maker?
A waffle cone is a classic pairing with ice cream that is a favorite among many and provides another alternative to wafer and sugar cones.
Made with a handful of basic ingredients, it has a deep caramel brown color, a nice sugary flavor, and a crunchy texture that perfectly compliments the cold and sweet ice cream on top of it.
Waffle cones are the perfect option if you like toppings on your ice cream since their wide brim will easily hold sauces, syrups, sprinkles, fresh fruit, nuts, brownies, and much more, without spilling.
They are made in a special appliance, known as a waffle cone maker, that allows you to make perfect waffle cones every single time.
They are great for people who like to eat ice cream often and want a simple hassle-free way of making waffle cones at home.
How To Use A Waffle Cone Maker
A waffle cone maker is a simple kitchen gadget that is incredibly easy to use and lets you make delicious and equally aromatic waffle homes in the comfort of your home kitchen.
All you have to do is bake the waffle cone in it and roll it to perfection. The result is a waffle cone with a pointy bottom and a wide mouth that can be filled with giant scoops of ice cream and yummy toppings!
Here are step-by-step instructions on how to use a waffle cone maker to make the most perfect waffle cones:
- Gather all the ingredients (all-purpose flour, dark brown sugar, salt, eggs, unsalted butter, milk, and vanilla extract) to make the waffle cone batter.
- Combine the flour and salt in a small bowl.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the brown sugar and eggs.
- Add the flour and salt mixture into the eggs and sugar mixture.
- Mix until they are well incorporated.
- Add in the melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract.
- Preheat the waffle cone maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Spoon 2-3 tbsp of the batter onto the waffle cone maker and spread it evenly across the surface.
- Close the lid and let it cook for around 1-2 minutes.
- Quickly remove the cooked flat waffle from the waffle cone maker and roll it tightly around a cone roller to give it the proper shape. Make sure the bottom part of the cone is tight.
- Hold it for 3 minutes to allow the shape to set.
- Place the shaped cone onto a wiring rack to cool.
- Repeat the process using the remaining batter.
Buyer’s Guide
Homemade waffle cones are far superior to the ready-made variety available at the supermarket. Not only do they taste better but are also more cost-effective.
The best way to make the perfect waffle cones at home is by using a waffle cone maker, and there are several options available in the market depending on their size, type, capacity, heating method, and cleaning method.
Before choosing the best one for your needs, you need to keep a few key considerations in mind such as the number of people you will be serving and how big or small you want the cones to be.
The build of most waffle cone makers is the same. What sets them apart is the quality of their components and ease of use.
The difference between a good quality waffle cone maker and a subpar one is the consistency of the results. Therefore, to make the best waffle cones at home, you need to invest in the best waffle cone maker.
Here are all the things you need to consider:
Type
There are several types of waffle cone makers to accommodate different needs and requirements. Some of the most famous types include classic, Belgian, double, vertical, and rotating waffle cone makers.
Each type serves a different purpose, all the while creating the best-quality waffle cones you can make. They all have their advantages and disadvantages and come at different price points.
A Belgian waffle cone maker, for instance, will make thick, fluffy waffles as compared to slightly thinner and crispier waffles made using the classic one.
The thickness level of the waffles is stated on the packaging so that you can get a better idea.
A double waffle cone maker is a great option for people looking to make two waffle cones simultaneously. They are ideal for big families and can come in handy for preparing waffle cones for a party.
A vertical waffle cone maker is perfect for kitchens with limited counter space since they require much less space.
A rotating waffle cone maker ensures that each side of the waffle cone is cooked perfectly and is soft on the inside without drying out.
Power
Waffle cone makers come in two main variants: electric and handheld. Out of the two, the former is the most popular due to its ability to maintain its temperature, allowing you to make several waffle cones one after the other.
Normally a few inches smaller than a waffle iron, an electric waffle cone maker has a few key features in all their models that include non-stick heating plates, indicator lights, temperature control, electric cord storage, and handles.
The non-stick heating plates are situated opposite each other and have a heating element underneath. Most of them have a pattern on them to give the waffle cones their signature waffle pattern.
Indicator lights change their color to indicate when the appliance is ready to use and when the waffle cone is done cooking.
Temperature controls, on the other hand, allow you to make lighter or darker cones according to your preference.
Since the appliance works using electricity, it includes a grounded plug and a heat-resistant cord, both of which are important for safe operation.
The handles on these machines vary in size and shape, with some handles being so small that they require oven mitts to handle, and some long enough for a safer grip.
Handheld waffle cone makers, on the other hand, have a basic build and are used on a stovetop. You may expect mixed results since they require practice to make the perfect waffle cone using them.
Their key features include dual plates, long handles, and a hinge. Similar to electric waffle cone makers, these handheld variants also have two plates in a clamshell design that come together to cook the waffle batter.
The long handles extend several inches from the heating plate and come with a heat-proof grip on each end. Lastly, since they require frequent opening and closing, a sturdy hinge is ideal.
Capacity
The size and capacity are important factors to consider since they determine the size of and the number of waffle cones you can make in one go.
If you have a bigger family or want to use the machine in a commercial setup, you will need a waffle cone maker with a larger capacity.
However, if you have a lot of family members but making waffle cones is a rare occasion in your household, it would be wise to invest in a smaller machine.
It may take you longer to make the waffle cones, but it shouldn’t be an issue since it won’t be a frequent thing.
Timing
The total time it takes to cook the waffles should be taken into consideration when buying a waffle cone maker since it can vary considerably depending on the type of appliance and the model in question.
Some efficient models take hardly 1-1 ½ minutes to cook the waffle while others may take up to 15 minutes. To help you keep track of the time, some modern models also come with a digital timer.
Clean-Up
The best kitchen appliances are not only easy to use but also easy to maintain and clean since no one enjoys the headache of cleaning up. The process should be simple and easy and shouldn’t take more than a few minutes.
When investing in a waffle cone maker, you must consider this aspect to make it an enjoyable experience of using it, instead of a hassle to clean and maintain.
Most models come with heating plates with a non-stick surface that can easily be cleaned with a dry or damp cloth or towel. Some even have removable plates that can be washed using water while protecting the rest of the machine.
Price
Depending on the type, size, and capacity of the waffle cone maker, you can expect to pay anywhere between $19 to $99.
Handheld waffle cone makers are the most economical out of the lot, while their electric counterparts tend to cost a bit more depending on the level of controls.
The most expensive variety are the commercial-grade models that come with multi-heating plates and advanced options.
One thing to keep in mind is that the price isn’t an indicator of how good or bad a product is. It all comes down to your preference and the type of waffle cone maker that best suits your needs.
Warranty
Whenever you buy an electric home appliance, you must make sure that it comes with a manufacturer’s warranty. The same applies to waffle cone makers.
Some manufacturers offer a warranty of 1 year while others cover an extended period of 3-4 years.
A warranty not only gives you confidence in the manufacturer’s trust in their product but also covers any technical faults that may arise over time and use.
Extras
To make a waffle cone, in addition to a waffle cone maker, you also need a cone shaper to give the waffle the right shape when it is still warm.
Since they are such an integral part of the waffle cone-making process, they are often included with several waffle cone makers.
You may even purchase them separately and get smaller or bigger ones, depending on the diameter of the waffles and how big you want the cones to be. Cone shapers can also be used to shape cream rolls and croissants.
If you do not have a cooling rack, you may invest in an ice cream cone rack that is made specifically to cool off warm ice cream cones. They can hold several ice cream cones at once and allow you to cool them without ruining their shape.
Another item that is not included with a waffle cone maker but can be super useful while making the cones is a pair of non-stick tongs.
They allow you to easily lift off the freshly made waffles from the heating plates and shape them without burning your fingers.
The non-stick coating will prevent the heat from transferring to the tongs and make them super easy to use and handle. You may choose between varying lengths of tongs based on your convenience.
The 11 Best Waffle Cone Makers
Waffle cone makers are a kitchen must-have for all the ice cream lovers out there. Not only is making your own waffle cones super fun, but you can also adjust the ingredients of the waffle batter according to your specific needs.
Depending on their size, type, capacity, and other features, there are several great waffle cone makers available in the market. Here are our top picks of the 11 best ones:
| Rank | Product | Best Features |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | CucinaPro Waffle Cone and Bowl Maker | Includes cone roller and patent-pending bowl press |
| 2. | Brentwood Appliances Waffle Cone Maker | Uses only 750 watts and features auto temperature controls |
| 3. | Chef’s Choice 838 WaffleCone Express | Instant temperature recovery and upright design |
| 4. | MasterChef Waffle Cone and Bowl Maker | Super light and easy to store and move around |
| 5. | Ejoyway Stovetop Waffle Cone Maker | Best non-electric waffle cone maker |
| 6. | Chef Buddy Waffle Cone Maker | Top lid locks down |
| 7. | Dyna-Living Waffle Cone Maker | Made of high-quality aluminum alloy |
| 8. | Dyna-Living Electric Waffle Cone Maker | Relatively inexpensive commercial-grade waffle cone maker |
| 9. | ALDKitchen Waffle Cone Maker | Commercial-grade machine made with high-quality stainless steel |
| 10. | Proctor Silex Waffle Cone Maker | Precise browning control |
| 11. | Rocita Commercial Waffle Cone Maker | Two independent operating stations |
1. CucinaPro Waffle Cone and Bowl Maker
One of the best electric waffle cone makers available on the market, this great appliance from CucinaPro not only makes perfect waffle cones but also the cutest waffle bowls!
It comes with accessories that allow you to easily make both and is the only waffle cone maker that includes a patent-pending bowl press.
Its non-stick plates make it easy to use and cleanup is a breeze. In addition to that, its indicator lights make it easy to know when the plates are hot enough and when the waffle cones are ready.
All you have to do is pour the batter, close the lid for a couple of minutes and, once ready, shape them using either the cone roller or bowl press included in the set.
It also comes with a free recipe guide to make the best waffles to go with your favorite flavor of ice cream.
2. Brentwood Appliances Waffle Cone Maker
A versatile piece of equipment that can be used to cook soft or crispy sugar and waffle cones depending on your preference, the Brentwood waffle cone maker uses only 750 watts of energy.
This allows you to create the perfect waffles of various shapes and sizes within a matter of minutes.
Incredibly simple to use, it uses non-stick material on its heating plates and features a preheat and power indicator light. It also has auto temperature controls for perfect results every time.
It is also very easy to clean due to its non-stick coating and weighs hardly 2.67 pounds with a 7-inch diameter, making it easy to handle and store.
3. Chef’s Choice 838 WaffleCone Express
The Chef’s Choice 838 WaffleCone Express is a professional baking system that includes a waffle maker, a cone-rolling form for easy and uniform shaping, and recipes to make the most perfect waffle cones.
It recovers its temperature almost instantly, making it always ready to bake, and features a non-stick baking surface and overflow channel for easy cleanup after use.
Its color selector control allows you to adjust the texture and color of the waffle, from golden to brown, based on your preference. It also features baking and ready lights for extra convenience.
A space-saving model designed with convenience in mind, it can be stored upright by simply closing the lid and allowing it to stand on the hinged edge.
In addition to that, its cord can be easily wrapped under the machine and the electrical plug secured in a slot on the base.
4. MasterChef Waffle Cone and Bowl Maker
The MasterChef waffle cone maker is one of the best ones on the market that makes absolutely perfect and delicious sugar and waffle cones with ease.
Super easy to use, it comes with non-stick plates, a waffle cone roller, and a waffle bowl maker to help you make the best waffles every single time.
Super light, weighing just under 4 pounds, it is easy to store and move around. Although it doesn’t feature temperature controls or a timer, just holding it down for 30 seconds should do the trick.
5. Ejoyway Stovetop Waffle Cone Maker
The first waffle cone maker on the list that isn’t electric, the Ejoway waffle cone maker is a premium-quality non-stick pan that is designed to withstand high temperatures from stovetops, ovens, and even campfires.
Perfect for individuals who like making waffle cones the traditional way, it can be used for several purposes other than making waffle cones, such as delicious eggs and omelets.
With double-sided plates that measure 6.6 inches in diameter, it features long handles that provide easy handling and ensure you don’t burn yourself.
6. Chef Buddy Waffle Cone Maker
A great option for people looking for ultimate convenience, the Chef Buddy waffle cone maker is an ingenious kitchen appliance that allows you to create perfectly golden-brown waffle cones that have a crisp outside and a soft, gooey inside.
It comes with a locking latch and has a cooking time of 2-3 minutes, depending on your recipe and how dark you want your waffle cone to be.
Extremely easy to use, all you have to do is add the waffle cone batter, lock the lid in place, and let the waffle maker work its magic.
It also features a green-ready indicator light and non-stick cooking plates that can easily be wiped clean with a damp cloth or sponge after use.
7. Dyna-Living Waffle Cone Maker
This double-sided non-stick waffle cone maker is made of high-quality aluminum alloy and a harmless food-grade coating to make the best waffle cones at home.
With fast heating speed, uniform heat generation, and high-temperature resistance, this sturdy and durable kitchen tool comes with a long non-slip handle that is easy to grip.
Used on gas stoves, it dissipates heat evenly and can be opened and closed freely to make waffle cones and bowls in just a few minutes.
Not limited to making waffle cones and bowls, the Dyna-Living waffle cone maker has a wide range of uses such as making cakes, egg rolls, and omelets.
8. Dyna-Living Electric Waffle Cone Maker
Another great find from Dyna-Living, this is a relatively inexpensive electric waffle cone maker perfect for commercial use.
Made of high-quality stainless steel that is sturdy and durable, it has a non-stick coating allowing you to make the perfect waffle cones within minutes.
Equipped with an independent temperature selector and timer, you can control the temperature and baking time of the waffles to make them according to your taste and preference.
Incredibly easy to use, it features a heat-insulated non-slip handle that is easy to grip. The machine is also easy to clean with a damp cloth or soft towel.
Not limited to commercial use, this waffle cone maker can be used in home kitchens and for parties. In addition to making delicious waffle cones, you may use it to make various food items such as pizza, pancakes, omelets, and egg rolls.
9. ALDKitchen Waffle Cone Maker
The ALDKitchen waffle cone maker is a commercial-grade machine that makes thin waffles that you can roll into perfect cones.
Extremely easy to operate without requiring much experience, this waffle cone maker boasts a smart and beautiful design that is perfect for both home and commercial use.
Made with high-quality stainless steel that is non-toxic and corrosion-resistant, it gives a great cooking performance and is reinforced with a thermostat, heating elements, and an additional layer of non-stick coating.
Easy to operate using a simple switch on/off button, it has a temperature control knob that can be adjusted based on the brownness and crispiness of the final product.
It also features stay-cool handles that have a spiral design in order to prevent slipping, overheating, and burning.
Its non-stick surface makes cleanup much easier and the machine comes with a cone roller to shape the waffle cones quickly and conveniently.
10. Proctor Silex Waffle Cone Maker
With the Proctor Silex waffle cone maker, you can make crispy and delicious ice cream cones in just a few minutes.
Using 800 watts of power, it reduces the wait time between waffles and lets you cook the best sugar and waffle cones one after the other.
It includes waffle cone roller and waffle bowl press attachments that allow you to create both waffle cones and bowls for serving ice cream and other desserts.
It features a precise browning control that lets you adjust the color of your waffle from light golden to dark brown, depending on your preference.
In addition to that, its power on and preheat lights show when the machine is on and ready to be used.
Its non-stick plates make it easy to lift the waffles once they are cooked and make cleanup a breeze.
Also, the machine can be stored vertically to save space on the kitchen counter or cabinet and the electrical cord can be stored neatly in the bottom cover to eliminate kitchen clutter.
11. Rocita Commercial Waffle Cone Maker
This commercial-grade waffle cone maker by Rocita features two independent ovens that allow you to make two waffle cones simultaneously.
This waffle cone maker features a precise timer and temperature adjustment knob, ranging from 0-5 minutes and 122-572°F.
It only takes 1-2 minutes to make perfect golden-brown waffle cones to enjoy with your favorite ice cream.
It uses high-quality heating tubes that quickly heat the plates to a high temperature and features LED lights to indicate the heating status.
It has a large non-stick baking pan, with a diameter of 7.3 inches, and spiral anti-scalding spring handles to make handling of the waffle maker much easier.
The best part about this machine is that it can be customized according to your use. The setup comes with casters and wheels, making it perfect for any setting.
Due to its bigger capacity, it is widely popular in restaurants, schools, as well as homes with bigger families.
Up Next: Apples Are Red Inside (What’s The Cause & Are They Safe To Eat?)
