How was the Popular Ice Cream Waffle Cone Born?

A stack of delicious waffle cones.

How Popular is the Waffle Cone? The Origin Story

On a summer day during the St. Louis World’s Fair, a Syrian immigrant named Ernest Hamwi was selling a crunchy, waffle-like pastry called zalabia from his stall. At the stand next door, however, Arnold Fornachou was selling his ice cream so fast that he completely ran out of serving dishes. Seizing the opportunity, Ernest rolled one of his pastries into a cone, his neighbor accepted the proposal, and in that moment, the first waffle cone was born.

The Fun Way to Eat Ice Cream

Eating ice cream has always been a moment of enjoyment, but the waffle cone took this dessert to a new level. While history records numerous claims to the invention, with some references dating back to 18th-century France, that charming legend from the World's Fair remains the most popular.

The 1928 Ice Cream Trade Journal published this story long after Ernest had already started the Cornucopia Waffle Company. Although others also claimed to be the creators, history largely credits Fornachou and Hamwi as the pioneers of this wonderful treat.

And What Happened Next with Waffle Cones?

Ice cream cones became so popular that inventors soon looked for ways to mechanize the process. For instance, a respected Portland inventor named Frederick Bruckman created and patented a special machine for rolling these edible cones. Later, in 1959, the Italian ice cream maker Spica perfected the preservation process. This allowed the cone to maintain its flavor and crisp texture even after being stored in a freezer.

The Result?

The Italian company registered the now-famous Cornetto brand. After a notable decline in sales during its early years, the brand experienced a turnaround when Unilever acquired it in the 1970s. Of course, the classic waffle cone has evolved over the years. For example, there is now a popular variant with a flat base that makes it easier to eat without the risk of it tipping over.

Combine Your Ice Cream With the Best Waffle Cone

Eating ice cream is only half the fun. With our waffle cones, you can enhance the appearance, taste, and texture of your menu offerings while adding a new source of profit. We make our premium cones to deliver a crisp waffle taste that perfectly complements any ice cream.

The AussieBlends Difference:

  • Superior Ingredients: We use raw sugar and avoid liquid sugars or corn syrups. This eliminates any burnt aftertaste or molasses flavor, allowing the pure taste of your ice cream to shine.
  • A Better Choice: Our cones are cooked in coconut oil and are made from only premium, natural, vegan ingredients.
  • Variety for Your Menu: Additionally, we offer three different sizes and five distinct flavors to complement your creations perfectly.
  • Certified Quality: All our waffle cones are certified Kosher, Halal, and Vegan for your peace of mind.

We make our cones with passion for your perfect ice cream. So, taste the AussieBlends difference today!

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