The Best Snow Cone Machine for Simple Summer Treats
Everything you need to know about the best snow cone machines.
Snow cones are the perfect snack for beating the summer heat. These low-calorie, low-effort, and low-temperature desserts are a surefire way to effortlessly refresh the whole family. As long as you have ice on hand, you will be able to get a kick out of these quick and easy frozen treats. Find the best snow cone machine to enjoy this sweet icy goodness whenever you please.
How to Choose the Best Snow Cone Machine
Before you pick the best snow cone machine, you will need to determine what you plan to use it for and how often you plan to use it. The three types of snow cone machines – manual, countertop, and industrial – all have their own sets of pros and cons. Additionally, you will need to consider the amount of space you have to store your machine when it is in and out of use. The look and design of your snow cone machine is also an important consideration. Although they don't affect performance, aesthetics are something you will want to consider, particularly if you are going to use your snow cone machine for entertaining guests. Small carnival-style snow cone machines offer a festive way to bring joy to children's parties or picnics, while large industrial models can make more snow cones faster.
Many people mistake snow cones for shaved ice even though they are not the same thing. Snow cones are made from a more crunchy ice which has a large amount of syrup poured over top. This syrup usually collects at the bottom, giving you a sweet surprise at the end. Shaved ice is much softer and fluffier, which allows the syrup to be more evenly distributed. That being said, many snow cone machines are dual-function and able to make both snow cones and shaved ice.
Manual: Manual snow cone machines are usually the smallest and most budget-friendly of the lot. Their hand cranks require no electricity; as long as you have ice on hand, you will be able to provide snow cones for a small group of people. Manual models are the best snow cone machines if you have limited space and are in need of something compact.
Countertop: Countertop snow cone machines are often compact in size, though this does vary from model to model. These snow cone machines also come as a standalone cart with wheels. Countertop models are the most common choice for home use, as they are usually easy on the pocket and simple to use; they produce enough snow cones for parties, picnics, and summer soirees.
Commercial: Commercial snow cone machines come with a larger price tag and are often louder and heavier than either of the other models. They are available in different wattages, speeds, capacities, and sizes. These are the best snow cone machines for bigger groups, festivals, and events where large amounts of snow cones will be required in a short period of time. Commercial snow cone machines are not often selected for home usage.
The manual VKP Brands Snowflake Hand-Crank Snow Cone Maker is perfect for making snow cones, shaved ice, and slushies. Its long handle makes it easy to crank out the ice without overexerting yourself, while the built-in spring keeps the ice blocks right against the blade, shaving consistently sized ice pieces. This bright blue snow cone machine also comes with three lidded ice mold cups. The ice created by these molds will give you the snow cone consistency you know and love. The single ice dispenser works well at home and for small gatherings.
Bring the carnival home with you with the Nostalgia Vintage Countertop Snow Cone Maker. This wheeled, fair-inspired snow cone machine fits on your counter and can hold up to 20 (8 oz.) snow cones at a time, making it perfect for home use. The stainless steel blades work quickly and effectively to shave regular ice into perfect snow cones. Simply fill the top with ice, watch the clear storage bin fill up, and serve. Use the ice scoop and two (8 oz.) reusable plastic snow cone cups to prepare your snow cones on the handy side shelf.
The cheery design and playful coloring of the Nostalgia Retro Countertop Snow Cone Maker evokes that festive feeling that is ideal for parties, barbecues, and picnics. Simply add regular ice blocks in the top of the machine and allow the stainless steel blades to cut up and churn out perfectly shaved ice. Operating this electric snow cone machine is simple and safe, as a safety switch is built into the shaving mechanism to keep hands safe. Make sure to use the included reusable 8 oz. plastic cone for easy serving.
The DGS Electric Snow Cone Machine is suitable for commercial and home use. This countertop snow cone machine packs a lot of punch for its size. The double stainless steel blades are speedy and efficient, making this heavy-duty model ideal for restaurants, bars, snack stands, and large parties. The drain hole includes a pipe which allows effortless release of the ice water. This snow cone machine is easy and convenient to operate, while the water-resistant on/off switch provides extra safety while in use.
The Vivohome Electric Ice Crusher is a powerful and premium snow cone maker that is suitable for commercial and home use. The adjustable aluminum rotary blade allows you to choose the texture of the ice. Simply plug this snow cone machine into an outlet, fill the top compartment with ice blocks, and use the nozzle to dispense shaved ice in less than a minute. A safety protective device on the lid, which prevents the ice shaver from working when the lid is open, means that even kids can safely use this snow cone machine. For easy cleanup, the drainable port allows you to drain excess water collected in the removable tray. This compact and portable snow cone maker comes with handles on both sides for easy transport, allowing you to make summer treats wherever you go.
The Good Treasures Snow Cone Shaved Ice Maker is an excellent choice for occasional home use. Its manual stainless steel blades turn standard ice into snow that can be dispensed into its four reusable cups. This snow cone machine is easy to clean, as the removable parts minimize any mess. The cute design of this lightweight snow cone machine is perfect for single servings at parties and outdoor events, as the hand crank allows you to make snow cones without electricity.
The Great Northern Popcorn Ice Cube Shaver Machine is a great kitchen addition that is compact in size and able to easily tuck away. This simple-to-use snow cone machine gives an impressive performance for its price. Shaving over 350 lbs. of ice per hour, this snow cone machine's powder-coated stainless steel body, heavy-duty motor, and quality performance make it one of the best snow cone machines for long-term use and durability. This sleek blue snow cone machine is easy to operate and clean, while the removable plastic tray ensures that any moisture can quickly be drained from the ice. Enjoy the theatrical effect the backlit sign provides when making snow cones for your friends.
Whether you plan to use it at home with the family or for large gatherings, the best snow cone machine will give you delightful snow cones that you can make as healthy or as decadent as you please.
