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Waffle Cone Makers: How They Work, How to Use Them, and How to Choose the Right One

Fresh waffle cone being rolled with a cone roller in an ice cream shop setting

Restaurant Supply content and product experts | Restaurant Supply Team |

Waffle cone makers are used to produce crisp, freshly baked waffle cones for ice cream, frozen yogurt, and desserts. Unlike pre-made sugar cones, waffle cones are baked as flat wafers and then rolled into shape while still warm, creating a sturdier cone with a rich, toasted flavor.

Today, waffle cone makers are used in ice cream shops, cafés, food trucks, and at home to create cones on demand. This guide explains how waffle cone makers work, how to use them correctly, and what to look for when choosing one, whether for commercial or personal use.

Quick Answer

A waffle cone maker is a specialized waffle iron that bakes thin waffle wafers. While the wafer is still hot and pliable, it is rolled around a cone form or roller to create a waffle cone. Once cooled, the cone hardens into its final shape.

Quick Pick by Use Case
  • Home / occasional use → Single unit
  • Daily cones during service → Double unit
  • Multiple staff / consistency critical → Digital controls
Finished waffle cones cooling on a rack after being rolled with a cone roller

How Waffle Cone Makers Work

“In high-volume dessert stations, cracking usually happens when rolling is delayed even 10–15 seconds. Waffle cone makers work like waffle irons—but they’re engineered to bake thin, flexible wafers (not thick breakfast waffles). The goal is a wafer that’s evenly browned, easy to release, and still pliable long enough to roll into a cone before it firms up.

The plates are designed to:

  • Bake quickly and evenly across the surface
  • Create a consistent grid texture
  • Release cleanly so the wafer can be removed fast (without tearing)
What’s Actually Happening Inside the Machine
Stage What the heat does Why it matters for cones
Initial bake Batter spreads and sets into a thin sheet Determines thickness and structure
Browning phase Sugars caramelize, moisture reduces Builds flavor and crispness
Release moment Wafer is cooked but still pliable You need a clean lift with no sticking
Cooling/set Wafer firms up rapidly as it cools “Roll window” closes fast—cracking risk rises
The “Roll Window” (Timing Reality Check)

The #1 reason cones crack is that the wafer cooled too long before rolling.

Time after removal Wafer feel Best action
0–10 seconds Very soft, steamy Lift carefully—don’t tear
10–30 seconds Pliable, easy to shape Roll immediately (ideal window)
30–60 seconds Firming up quickly Roll only if you’re fast and gentle
60+ seconds Stiff, brittle Do not roll

A Brief Note on Waffle Cone History

Edible ice cream cones took off in the early 1900s, with the origin story most commonly tied to the 1904 St. Louis World’s Fair, where cones helped vendors serve ice cream without bowls or spoons. As cones became more popular, shops needed a faster, more consistent way to make them—leading to the development of commercial waffle cone irons and bakers that standardized thickness, browning, and output.

Modern electric waffle cone makers evolved from those early cast-iron designs and are now widely available in both commercial and home-use models, making fresh cones possible on demand rather than relying on pre-made inventory.

How to Make Waffle Cones (Basic Method)

Waffle cones are simpler than most people expect—but speed and timing are everything. You’re working with a short “roll window” before the wafer firms up.

What you’ll need
Item Why it matters
Waffle cone maker (or thin waffle iron) Bakes a thin wafer that can be rolled before it cools
Cone roller or cone mold Shapes the hot wafer into a cone quickly and consistently
Heat-resistant gloves or towel Protects hands while rolling (wafer is very hot)
Waffle cone batter Cone batter is sweeter and designed to crisp firmly
Basic steps (with timing cues)
Step What to do Pro tip / cue
1) Preheat Heat the waffle cone maker until fully hot Preheat fully for consistent browning
2) Lightly grease (if needed) Apply a thin coat of oil or release Don’t over-oil—too much affects texture
3) Add batter Pour a small amount into the center Use the same scoop or ladle each time
4) Bake Close lid and bake until golden (about 1–2 minutes) Golden brown = crisp and flavorful
5) Remove immediately Lift wafer off while hot and flexible This starts the roll window—move fast
6) Roll into a cone Wrap wafer around the cone form Roll smoothly; align edges for a tight point
7) Hold briefly to set Hold seam closed for a few seconds The cone “locks” as it cools
8) Cool completely Place on a rack or stand before filling Filling too soon softens the cone
Hands using a cone roller to roll a warm waffle cone into shape

Common make-or-break moment

Important: If the wafer cools too much before rolling, it will crack.

Quick “save vs. restart” rule
If the wafer is… Do this
Still warm and pliable Roll immediately—don’t hesitate
Already stiff or brittle Don’t force it. Bake a new wafer and roll sooner

How to Use a Waffle Cone Roller

A waffle cone roller (also called a cone form or cone mold) is the tool that turns a hot, flat waffle wafer into a cone shape. It makes cones faster, more consistent, and easier to replicate across staff.

What a cone roller does (and why it matters)
What it controls Why it matters in real use
Cone shape Prevents lopsided cones and uneven openings
Seam tightness Helps prevent leaks from melted ice cream
Point formation Creates a clean tip instead of a weak bottom
Consistency across staff Makes cones repeatable even for new employees
Common Mistakes (and how to avoid them)
  • Not preheating long enough → Leads to pale wafers and soft cones. Let the iron fully heat before the first cone.
  • Using too much batter → Creates thick waffles that won’t roll cleanly and crack more easily.
  • Waiting too long to roll → The wafer cools fast; roll immediately while pliable.
  • Underbaking to “keep it flexible” → Flexibility comes from timing, not undercooking—aim for golden brown so cones crisp as they cool.
  • Storing cones uncovered → Humidity softens cones quickly. Cool completely, then store airtight in a dry place.
Infographic showing step-by-step instructions for rolling waffle cones using a cone roller

How to Make Waffle Cones Without a Cone Maker

You can make waffle cones without a dedicated cone maker. The key requirement is producing a thin, flexible wafer. Thick waffles won’t roll properly and will crack.

Options that work (ranked by consistency)
Tool Works because… Consistency
Thin waffle iron Can bake a thin wafer-style waffle High (if plates are thin)
Pizzelle maker Naturally produces thin, crisp wafers High
Non-stick skillet Cooks thin batter like a crepe Medium–low (more skill required)
Key rule: Thin wafer = rollable cone
If your wafer is… You’ll get… Fix
Thin and evenly baked Rolls cleanly and crisps well Standardize batter portions
Thick or fluffy Cracks and won’t form a cone Use less batter; spread thinner
Uneven thickness Weak spots and tearing Center batter; close lid evenly
Quick tip for skillet method

Treat it more like a crepe than a waffle: thin layer, quick cook, roll immediately. It works, just with less consistency.

Commercial Waffle Cone Makers

Commercial waffle cone makers are built for speed, durability, and consistent output—so you can bake wafers back-to-back during service without temperature drift or fragile components.

Fresh waffle cone disc cooking on a waffle cone iron before rolling
Typical commercial features
Feature Why it matters in a real shop
Electric operation Faster startup and predictable performance for daily use
Heavy-duty plates (cast iron or cast aluminum, or coated aluminum) Even heat and consistent browning cone after cone
Adjustable temperature controls Lets you dial in color and crispness for your batter and humidity
Faster recovery between cones Helps keep pace when orders spike
Designed for continuous use Built to run all day in dessert stations and scoop shops

Commercial models are marketed for foodservice cone production and are often sold as “cone bakers” or “waffle cone makers.”

Most commercial cone bakers are engineered for continuous 2–4 hour service blocks without required cooldown periods, while home models often require rest intervals after extended use.

Throughput reality (what to expect)

Most commercial cone makers produce one wafer per cycle, but output stays high because bake times are short and rolling is fast once staff develop a rhythm.

What affects cones per hour Why it changes output
Bake time and recovery time Faster cycles mean more wafers produced per hour
Operator skill Rolling technique determines how fast cones set without cracking
Single vs. double grid Double units can increase throughput without adding more stations

Some commercial cone bakers are described as supporting up to about 60 cones per hour, depending on workflow and operator speed.

In a busy scoop shop selling 40–60 cones per hour during peak summer weekends, cracking rates often increase when new staff rotate onto the station. Digital temperature control combined with a simple rolling SOP can reduce waste and remakes significantly.

Best use cases
Ideal for Why it’s a fit
Ice cream shops Fresh cones on demand and a premium upsell
Dessert bars Consistent cone output for plated desserts
Food trucks Compact production without storing pre-made cones
Cafés offering fresh cones Adds a signature item without a full dessert buildout

Commercial Waffle Cone Maker Picks

1. Waring — WWCM180 Waffle Cone Maker (Single)

Best for: Shops adding fresh cones with a simple, single-wafer workflow

Waring — WWCM180 Waffle Cone Maker (Single)

The Waring WWCM180 is a single waffle cone maker built for operators who want to introduce fresh cones without overbuilding the station. It’s a straightforward way to add a fresh-cone upsell while keeping workflow simple and repeatable.

Why it works for fresh-cone service

A single-iron setup is easy to staff and easy to pace—ideal when cones are an add-on rather than a core production line.

Operational highlights (WWCM180)
Feature What it does Why it matters in service
Single cone format Produces one cone wafer per cycle Simple workflow and easy staff training
Compact footprint Fits smaller stations Adds cones without major layout changes
Fresh cone production Makes cones to order or in small batches Higher perceived quality and upsell appeal
Pros and cons
Pros Operational benefit Cons Operational tradeoff
Easy to run Minimal training required Lower throughput Can bottleneck during rushes
Simple station setup Works in limited space Batch pacing required Needs attention to cycle timing

How to decide: Choose this if cones are a value-add and you want the simplest path to fresh cone service.

View Waring WWCM180 Waffle Cone Maker

2. Waring — WWCM200 Waffle Cone Maker (Double)

Best for: Higher cone demand or predictable rush periods where a single iron can’t keep up

Waring — WWCM200 Waffle Cone Maker (Double)

The Waring WWCM200 is a double waffle cone maker designed to increase output from one station. It’s a practical upgrade when fresh cones are popular and you need more throughput without adding a second workstation.

Why it works for rush coverage

Two irons help smooth peak demand—run cones simultaneously or stagger pulls so you’re not stuck with one-cone-at-a-time pacing.

Operational highlights (WWCM200)
Feature What it does Why it matters in service
Double unit format Produces two cone wafers per cycle Higher throughput during rush periods
Single-station efficiency More output from one footprint Saves space vs. adding another machine
Fresh cone workflow Supports larger batch runs Better for steady cone demand
Pros and cons
Pros Operational benefit Cons Operational tradeoff
More throughput Keeps up with peak periods More attention required Tighter timing management
Efficient use of space More cones without expanding footprint Higher upfront cost Best ROI when cones sell consistently

How to decide: Choose this if fresh cones are a real volume driver and you need more cones per hour from one station.

View Waring WWCM200 Waffle Cone Maker

3. Gold Medal — 5020E Giant Waffle Cone Baker

Best for: Operators who want adjustable electronic control and a heavier commercial build

Gold Medal — 5020E Giant Waffle Cone Baker

The Gold Medal 5020E is positioned as a more heavy-duty option with stainless construction and adjustable electronic controls (and listed as NSF per the product listing). It’s aimed at operators who want greater control over the bake and a more traditional commercial equipment feel.

Why it works for controlled, consistent output

Electronic controls make it easier to standardize browning across staff and shifts—useful when cone quality is part of the brand experience.

Operational highlights (5020E)
Feature What it does Why it matters in service
Adjustable electronic controls Fine-tunes bake parameters More consistent color and texture
Stainless construction Durable and easy to wipe down Better suited for daily use
NSF listed (per listing) Meets common sanitation expectations Helpful for compliance-focused operations
“Giant” cone format Supports larger cone styles Differentiates menu presentation
Pros and cons
Pros Operational benefit Cons Operational tradeoff
Greater control More consistent results More settings to manage Needs a simple SOP for staff
Commercial build Holds up to frequent use Larger, heavier unit Requires dedicated space

How to decide: Choose this if cone consistency and durability matter and you want electronic control for repeatable bakes.

View Gold Medal 5020E Giant Waffle Cone Baker

4. Nemco — 7030A-240 Cone Baker (Digital Controls)

Best for: Operations prioritizing consistency and repeatability across multiple staff

Nemco — 7030A-240 Cone Baker (Digital Controls)

The Nemco 7030A-240 is built around digital controls for repeatable performance. It’s described as supporting up to about 60 cones per hour (workflow dependent), making it a strong fit for cone programs that run throughout the day.

Why it works for repeatability

Digital controls help reduce operator drift, delivering consistent bake results whether the station is run by a veteran or a new hire.

Operational highlights (7030A-240)
Feature What it does Why it matters in service
Digital controls Standardizes bake settings Consistency across shifts and staff
Listed up to ~60 cones/hr Supports higher production Better for steady demand and rush coverage
Commercial cone baker format Purpose-built for cone output More reliable than improvised methods
Pros and cons
Pros Operational benefit Cons Operational tradeoff
High consistency Fewer off-color or overbaked cones Throughput depends on workflow Rolling speed can be the limiter
Strong volume potential Better for busy cone programs Requires station discipline Best with defined timing and staging

How to decide: Choose this if you want digital repeatability and higher production potential for an all-day cone program.

View Nemco 7030A-240 Cone Baker with Digital Controls

How We Evaluate Waffle Cone Makers

To recommend waffle cone makers with confidence, we focus on real-world performance—not just specifications on a product page. Our evaluation criteria reflect how these machines are actually used in commercial and home settings. 

Our evaluation criteria:

Baking consistency

We look for even browning across the entire plate, with no hot spots that create thin areas or lead to cracking during rolling.

Heat control and recovery time

Machines must maintain stable temperatures and recover quickly between cones. This is especially critical during busy service when back-to-back baking is required.

Ease of rolling

The wafer should release cleanly and remain pliable long enough to roll without rushing, tearing, or cracking.

Build quality and durability

Heavy-duty hinges and rigid plate alignment help prevent uneven wafer thickness caused by plate flex. Over time, lighter units may develop slight misalignment, which operators often notice as uneven browning before they notice mechanical wear.

Cleaning and maintenance

Smooth surfaces, easy wipe-downs, and minimal batter buildup help reduce end-of-day labor and keep stations efficient.

Workflow fit

We consider footprint, electrical requirements, and whether the unit integrates smoothly into real kitchen layouts—countertops, prep areas, or service lines.

Use-case match

Each model is evaluated based on whether it’s best suited for occasional use, steady service, or high-volume production.

Why this matters

A waffle cone maker can look great on paper and still struggle in real-world use. Our approach prioritizes repeatable results, speed, and operator-friendly design—the factors that actually determine success during service.

Our recommendations are informed by foodservice equipment standards and real-world operator workflows.

Best Waffle Cone Maker: What to Look For

Choose a waffle cone maker based on how many cones you need during peak service. Single units are great for occasional cones and lower volume, double units boost output without adding a second station, and digital controls are best when you need repeatable results across staff and shifts.

Quick Comparison: Single vs. Double vs. Digital Waffle Cone Makers

Type Best for Output fit Biggest advantage Tradeoffs What to prioritize
Single Home use, cafés, low-volume shops Low–moderate Simple, compact, lower cost Can bottleneck during rush Plate release and stable heat
Double Busy shops, rush periods, food trucks Moderate–high More throughput in one footprint Higher cost and more power draw Recovery time and workflow setup
Digital controls (single or double) Multi-staff operations, consistency-focused shops Any (depends on unit) Repeatable browning across shifts More electronics and higher price Precise temperature control and durability
Quick pick guide
  • If cones are an occasional add-on: Single
  • If cones are a daily seller (rush matters): Double
  • If multiple people run the station or consistency is critical: Digital controls (single or double)

Key Buying Factors (What Actually Matters)

The “best” waffle cone maker isn’t one universal model—it’s the one that matches your cone size, volume needs, and how consistent you need results to be (one operator vs. multiple staff and shifts).

1) Plate size (cone diameter and portion feel)

Plate size determines how large the wafer is—and therefore how large your finished cone can be.

Plate size impact What it changes
Larger plates Bigger cones, better for double scoops and premium builds
Smaller plates Faster handling and smaller portion cones
Consistency Same plate size supports uniform cone presentation

Tip: If you sell “signature cones,” plate size matters more than most buyers expect—it affects both portioning and perceived value.

2) Temperature control (the consistency factor)

Temperature control is the difference between “good cones sometimes” and good cones all day.

Control type Best for Why
Simple thermostat or dial Low-to-medium volume Easy to train and fewer settings to manage
Digital controls Higher consistency and multi-staff stations Repeatable settings across shifts
Adjustable range Any setting Lets you dial in browning for your batter and humidity

Why it matters: Browning drives flavor and crispness. Too cool = limp cones. Too hot = brittle cones and cracking.

Most commercial waffle cone makers operate within an adjustable range of approximately 300°F–425°F. Slight adjustments (even 10–15 degrees) can noticeably affect browning speed and roll flexibility, especially in humid environments.

3) Plate material (heat retention vs. cleanup)

Plate material affects how evenly cones bake and how fast the unit recovers between wafers.

Plate material Strengths Tradeoffs
Cast iron Excellent heat retention and very even browning Heavier; may require more care or seasoning
Coated plates Easier release and cleanup Can be less forgiving if overheated or scratched
Cast aluminum (common in commercial units) Heats quickly and evenly Less heat “reserve” than cast iron in some designs
4) Recovery time (throughput reality)

Recovery time is how quickly the plates return to target heat after you open the lid and remove a wafer.

If you’re making… Recovery time matters because…
A few cones per hour Most decent units keep up
Dozens per hour Slow recovery causes pale cones, longer cycles, and inconsistent browning
Rush periods Fast recovery keeps output predictable
5) Included accessories (workflow upgrades)

Accessories don’t just add convenience—they reduce cracking and speed up production.

Accessory Why it matters
Cone roller or cone mold Essential for consistent shape and seam tightness
Forms (different sizes) Lets you match cone size to menu formats
Drip tray Cleaner station and faster resets
Cooling rack or cone stand Helps cones set evenly and stay crisp
6) Commercial vs. home rating (foodservice readiness)

For commercial use, certifications and build quality matter—especially if inspectors or facility policies require them.

What to look for Why it matters
NSF listing (or equivalent) Indicates suitability for foodservice sanitation expectations
Commercial electrical safety marks (UL or ETL) Helps meet facility requirements and inspection expectations
Heavy-duty hinges and handles Built for continuous cycles and repeated opening/closing

Quick Sizing: How Many Cones Per Hour Do You Need?

Volume goal What to prioritize
Occasional cones (events, weekends) Plate release and simple controls
Steady cones during service Temperature control and faster recovery
High-volume / rush production Fast recovery, durable plates, and possibly double units

Buying Factors Checklist (Must-Have vs. Nice-to-Have)

Must-have (for consistent cones)
Feature Why it matters
Adjustable temperature control Keeps browning consistent across shifts and humidity changes
Even-heating plates Prevents weak spots that crack during rolling
Reliable release (non-stick or well-seasoned plates) Reduces tearing and waste
Fast recovery time Keeps output steady for back-to-back cones
Nice-to-have (workflow upgrades)
Feature Why it helps
Digital controls / presets Repeatable settings for multi-staff consistency
Drip tray Cleaner station and faster reset between cones
Included cone roller/forms Faster rolling and a more uniform cone shape
Multiple cone sizes/forms Lets you standardize small vs. large portion cones
Fast “Pick the Right Model” Decision Guide
If you’re… Prioritize…
Making cones occasionally Easy release and simple dial control
Making cones during service but not constantly Temperature control and decent recovery time
Making cones as a core upsell Fast recovery, durable plates, and repeatable controls
Training multiple staff Digital controls or clear temperature settings, plus consistent accessories

Waffle Cone Recipes: Delicious Variations and Resources

Here are classic and creative waffle cone recipes you can use in shops or at home—from traditional cones to citrus and chocolate variations that add flavor and visual appeal.

1) Traditional Waffle Cones

Classic waffle cones are lightly sweet, crisp, and sturdy, making them ideal for holding multiple scoops while adding texture and flavor.

Key recipe techniques
  • A buttery, lightly sweet batter is cooked until golden brown
  • The wafer is rolled immediately while hot and set on a cone form
  • Cones are cooled completely before filling to ensure crispness
Try these recipes
  • King Arthur Baking — Homemade Waffle Cones: Classic recipe using egg whites and butter, with shaping tips
    View recipe
  • Williams Sonoma — Waffle Cones: Step-by-step instructions with simple ingredients
    View recipe

Pro tip: Let the batter rest briefly before baking—this improves texture and helps cones crisp evenly.

2) Lemon Poppy Seed Waffle Cones

Lemon poppy seed cones add bright citrus notes and a subtle crunch, pairing well with lighter or fruit-forward ice creams.

Recipe inspiration
  • Lemon Poppy Seed Waffle Cones: Flavor variation with zest and poppy seeds
    View recipe

Flavor pairing: Berry, lemon sorbet, or vanilla bean ice cream.

3) Chocolate Waffle Cones

Chocolate waffle cones deliver a richer flavor that complements chocolate, mocha, and nut-based ice creams.

Recipe inspiration
  • Chocolate waffle cones or bowls: Cocoa-based batter that works for cones or bowls
    View recipe
  • Chocolate waffle cone variation: Deeper cocoa flavor for a richer cone
    View recipe

Serving tip: Dip finished cone rims in chocolate and sprinkles for a premium presentation.

Waffle Cone Recipe Tips and Variations

Batter and texture

  • Mix gently to avoid tough cones
  • Use blended sugars (white, brown, honey) for flavor and flexibility while warm

Flavor variations to try

  • Vanilla bean for added aroma
  • Cinnamon or warm spices for seasonal menus
  • Citrus zest (lemon, orange, lime) for bright pairings
  • Nut flours (almond or hazelnut) for richness

Storage and serving

  • Store cooled cones in an airtight container at room temperature
  • Fill cones just before serving to prevent softening

Helpful Recipe Resources

Classic and technique-focused
Flavored creations
General homemade inspiration
  • Cupcake Project — Homemade Waffle Cones
    View recipe
  • A Modern Homestead — Homemade Waffle Cones
    View recipe
Infographic troubleshooting common waffle cone rolling problems like cracking, softness, and sticking

Waffle Cone Maker Q&A

How do you make waffle cones crispy?

Use a fully preheated iron and bake until golden brown. Roll immediately, then let the cone cool completely before filling.

What’s the difference between sugar cones and waffle cones?
Sugar cones Waffle cones
Molded shape Rolled wafers
Thicker and sweeter Lighter, crispier aroma and flavor
Very uniform More “fresh-baked” character
How long do waffle cones last?

Fresh cones stay crisp for about 3–7 days when stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Moisture is the biggest enemy.

Can waffle cones be made ahead of time?

Yes. Many shops bake cones daily and store them in sealed containers to maintain crispness.

Can you make waffle bowls with a waffle cone maker?

Yes—most waffle cone makers can also produce waffle bowls. You bake the wafer the same way, then press it into a bowl mold (or over an inverted bowl or cup) while it’s still hot and pliable.

Many shops keep both cone rollers and bowl forms so they can offer cones and bowls from the same station without adding extra equipment.

Do waffle cone makers need special batter?

Not strictly, but cone-specific batter works best. Waffle cone batter is typically thinner and higher in sugar (and often includes egg whites), allowing it to bake into a crisp, rollable wafer that sets firmly as it cools.

Standard waffle or pancake batter is usually too thick and cakey, which makes wafers harder to roll and more likely to crack.

How much electricity does a waffle cone maker use?

It depends on the model, but most electric waffle cone makers fall roughly in the 1,000–2,000 watt range.

Actual energy use is typically lower than the nameplate wattage because the machine cycles on and off to maintain temperature.

Planning tip: Confirm the unit’s wattage, amperage, and voltage (often 120V; some commercial models are 208–240V), and ensure the circuit can handle the load without sharing power with other high-draw equipment.

Final Takeaway

Waffle cone makers don’t just produce cones—they create freshness, aroma, and a premium experience that pre-made cones can’t match.

Whether you’re running an ice cream shop or making desserts at home, the right waffle cone maker comes down to:

  • Output needs
  • Heat control
  • Ease of rolling
  • Cleaning and durability

When used correctly, waffle cone makers deliver crisp, sturdy cones that elevate frozen desserts and help set your service apart.

Ready to Find the Right Waffle Cone Maker?

RestaurantSupply.com offers a curated selection of commercial and home-use waffle cone makers, along with essential accessories like cone rollers and forms. With detailed product specs, commercial-grade options, and fast shipping, it’s easy to choose equipment that fits your volume, space, and workflow. All models referenced above are commercial-grade options commonly used in foodservice settings.

Explore waffle cone makers at RestaurantSupply.com and bring fresh, made-to-order cones to your menu.