9 Ways To Use Ice Cream Cones Besides Ice Cream

Ice cream cones and warm weather go together like Bonnie and Clyde, Laverne and Shirley, Homer and Marge .... you get where I'm going with this, yeah? But what about getting creative this year? What about trying out some new ways to use ice cream cones... besides, you know, filling them with actual ice cream?

Don't get baking shy now. These nine unique takes on the traditional ice cream cone may be a little shocking at first because of their sans ice cream ingredients, but all great things can be a little boundary-breaking when you first try them out. Great for parties and get-togethers, these single serving treats are unforgettable and easy to make on the fly. Another added bonus? They're just as easy to eat, because they're delicious, yes, but also more practically, because they are hand-held goodies.

A little indulgence never hurt anyone, right? Especially when it comes to desserts. Pick up some basic ice cream cones at the grocery story, or make your own if you have the extra time. Then, let the creativity ensue. Cakes, fruits, puddings, and pies... it's impossible to try just one of these summer-ready treats. And why should you? You deserve it all. Every. Last. Bite.

1. Ice cream cone cakes

Cakes are a good time... but cakes in a cone are a blast. Simply pour your cake or cupcake batter into the cones to bake. You can also top the cones off with cupcakes as another alternative.

2. Ice cream cone popcorn balls

Cookies and Cups fills up crunchy sugary waffle cones with salty sweet popcorn balls for a treat you will want to eat over and over and over.

3. Ice cream cone cupcakes

How BEAUTIFUL are these cupcake cones? Confessions of a Cookbook Queen has the recipe you need to make dessert come alive this season.

4. Ice cream cone brownies

Similar to cake, a light brownie mix baked into individual cones is well worth the effort. Seriously, you'll never think of brownies the same way again. Top them off with a scoop of ice cream and some whipped cream if you want to go all out.

5. Ice cream cone pies

Just when you started thinking that pie was the one food that could not be improved... eh.... think again. Fill your cones with a warm pie filling, and top it off with some ice cream. If you're really feeling ambitious, forget the store-bought cones and make some pie crust cones.

6. Ice cream cereals

Ever had a Rice Krispies treat? Ever had a Rice Krispies treat inside of an ice cream cone? I know, your mind has just been blown. And don't feel like you have to limit it to Rice Krispies — Fruity Pebbles, Lucky Charms, Captain Crunch... use whatever cereal floats your boat.

7. Ice cream cone puddings

Yes, you read it right. Pudding in ice cream cones seems a little odd a first, but once you try it out, it feels like the most natural thing on the planet. Chocolate, strawberry, fruit-flavored, or even custard — give it a go. The crunch adds a nice kick to the otherwise smooth dessert.

8. Ice cream cone cannoli

A cannoli is basically an ice cream cone's more sophisticated older sister. Cookies and Cups combines the two for one crazy cool dessert.

9. Ice cream cones full of fruit

If you want to go the healthy route, fill your ice cream cone with any fresh fruit of your liking. You can also use cooked fruit if your heart so desires. Top it all off with a hefty serving of whipped cream, of course.

Images: General Mills, Stefani, Eugene Kim, Jasmin Fine, Connie, Pedro Moura Pinheiro, Thompson Rivers University/Flickr; Cookies And Cups