Ice Cream Waffle Cones For Every Diet – From Gluten-Sensitive To Dairy Substitutes

Last Updated on December 10, 2024 by Cherie

Learn to make delicious waffle cones for every diet, from gluten-free and vegan to dairy-free options. Make the perfect cone with ingredients adapted for all dietary needs.

I recently had someone ask me if I had a recipe for gluten-free waffle cones because their grandkids had an allergy to gluten. I was a little disappointed that I didn’t have one to offer!

I’ve always made it a point to create recipes catering to various dietary needs, including dairy-free, lactose-free, vegetarian and vegan options. But somehow, I had overlooked the humble waffle cone, which got me thinking, what good is dairy-free, lactose-free or vegan ice cream if the cone itself isn’t suitable for everyone to enjoy?

Determined to make amends and to right this wrong, I went about researching, testing and experimenting and I’m now very happy to share recipes that account for many different food intolerances and open the door to everyone who loves a deliciously crispy waffle cone with their homemade ice cream.

In this article, we’ll provide a little background on what gluten is, how it affects an ever-growing number of people around the world, and, of course, share our recipes and step-by-step instructions for making gluten-free, vegan-friendly, dairy-free and lactose-free ice cream waffle cones.

If you’d like to jump straight to the recipes, feel free to click the links below or read on to learn more about these dietary needs and how easy it is to adapt your ice cream waffle cones for everyone.

Jump to Gluten-Free Waffle Cone Recipe
Jump to Vegan Waffle Cone Recipe
Jump to Dairy-Free/Lactose-Free Waffle Cone Recipe

Understanding Gluten and Its Impact on Health

Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, rye, and their derivatives. It provides elasticity and chewiness to many baked goods and is often a hidden ingredient in processed foods.

While gluten is safe for most people, it can cause adverse effects for those with certain conditions. For example, people with coeliac disease, a serious autoimmune disorder, experience damage to their small intestine when they consume gluten.

Even those who don’t have coeliac disease may suffer from non-coeliac gluten sensitivity, which can cause bloating, stomach pain, fatigue, and other symptoms.

Inclusive Treats: Making Waffle Cones for All Dietary Needs

In recent years, more people have become aware of gluten and other food intolerances. This awareness has sparked a growing demand for recipes that cater to a wide range of dietary needs.

The good news is that enjoying a crispy, delicious waffle cone doesn’t have to be off-limits.

By making a few simple adaptations, we can create waffle cones that are gluten-free, vegan, dairy-free, and lactose-free, allowing everyone to enjoy ice cream and waffle cones.

Ice Cream Waffle Cones for Every Diet: Gluten-Free, Vegan, and Dairy-Free Recipes

Finding a delicious ice cream cone that meets specific dietary needs can be a challenge, but it doesn’t have to be!

Below, you’ll find three easy-to-follow recipes for homemade ice cream waffle cones tailored to different dietary requirements.

Whether you need a gluten-free, vegan, or dairy-free option, these recipes ensure everyone can enjoy the full ice cream experience with a crispy, delicious cone.

Choose the version that suits your needs and get ready to enjoy a treat that’s inclusive and delicious for all!

Gluten-Free Waffle Cone Recipe

Here’s a delicious gluten-free waffle cone recipe for those avoiding gluten. Made with alternative flours, it’s perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a crispy, homemade cone without the wheat!

Ingredients:

• 120g gluten-free plain flour (ensure the mix includes xanthan gum or add 1/2 tsp separately)
• 100g caster sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 60g unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 60ml whole milk

Method:

1. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Combine the Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk the eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth.
3. Create the Batter: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until well combined. The batter should be smooth and slightly thick.
4. Heat the Waffle Cone Maker or Skillet: Preheat your waffle cone maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If you don’t have a waffle cone maker, use a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
5. Cook the Waffle Cones: Pour about 2-3 tablespoons of batter into the centre of the waffle cone maker or skillet. Spread the batter evenly to form a circle. Close the waffle cone maker and cook for about 1-2 minutes or until golden brown. If using a skillet, cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook the other side.
6. Shape the Cones: Remove the cooked waffle round and quickly roll it around a cone-shaped mould (you can use a wooden spoon handle to help). Hold for a few seconds until it hardens. Repeat with the remaining batter.
7. Cool and Serve: Allow the cones to cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, fill them with your favourite ice cream and enjoy!

NB: If you don’t own a waffle cone maker, please head over to our article – Mastering the Art: Make Homemade Ice Cream Cones – to find directions on how to make waffle cones without a waffle cone maker.

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes per cone
Total Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes for a batch of 8-10 cones

Nutritional Information (per cone):

• Calories: 150-170
• Carbohydrates: 20-25g
• Protein: 2-3g
• Fat: 7-9g
• Fibre: 1-2g

Storage and Shelf Life:
Store cooled waffle cones in an airtight container at room temperature. They should remain crisp for 3-5 days. For longer storage, place them in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between each cone. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature before using.

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Vegan Waffle Cone Recipe

This vegan waffle cone recipe is free from animal products and still delivers that classic crunchy texture. Made with plant-based ingredients, it’s great for a compassionate and tasty treat!

Ingredients:

• 120g gluten-free plain flour (ensure the mix includes xanthan gum or add 1/2 tsp separately)
• 100g caster sugar
• 2 tbsp ground flaxseed + 6 tbsp water (to replace eggs)
• 60g dairy-free margarine or coconut oil, melted
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 60ml plant-based milk (e.g., almond, oat, soy)

Method:

1. Prepare the Flax Eggs: Mix 2 tbsp of ground flaxseed with 6 tbsp of water in a small bowl. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it forms a gel-like consistency.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Combine the Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk the flax eggs, melted dairy-free margarine or coconut oil, vanilla extract, and plant-based milk until smooth.
4. Create the Batter: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until well combined. The batter should be smooth and slightly thick.
5. Heat the Waffle Cone Maker or Skillet: Preheat your waffle cone maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If you don’t have a waffle cone maker, use a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
6. Cook the Waffle Cones: Pour about 2-3 tablespoons of batter into the centre of the waffle cone maker or skillet. Spread the batter evenly to form a circle. Close the waffle cone maker and cook for about 1-2 minutes or until golden brown. If using a skillet, cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook the other side.
7. Shape the Cones: Remove the cooked waffle round and quickly roll it around a cone-shaped mould. Hold for a few seconds until it hardens. Repeat with the remaining batter.
8. Cool and Serve: Allow the cones to cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, fill them with your favourite vegan ice cream and enjoy!

NB: If you don’t own a waffle cone maker, please head over to our article – Mastering the Art: Make Homemade Ice Cream Cones – to find directions on how to make waffle cones without a waffle cone maker.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes (including flax egg preparation)
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes per cone
Total Time: Approximately 35-45 minutes for a batch of 8-10 cones

Nutritional Information (per cone):

• Calories: 140-160
• Carbohydrates: 22-27g
• Protein: 1-2g
• Fat: 6-8g
• Fibre: 2-3g

Storage and Shelf Life:
Store cooled vegan waffle cones in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay fresh for 2-4 days. For extended storage, wrap each cone individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 weeks. Allow to thaw at room temperature before serving.

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Dairy-Free/Lactose-Free Waffle Cone Recipe

If you’re lactose intolerant or avoiding dairy, this dairy-free waffle cone recipe is for you. It uses alternatives like coconut milk or almond milk to achieve a rich, delicious cone without any dairy products!

Ingredients:

• 120g gluten-free plain flour (ensure the mix includes xanthan gum or add 1/2 tsp separately)
• 100g caster sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 60g dairy-free margarine or coconut oil, melted
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 60ml plant-based milk (e.g., almond, coconut, oat, soy)

Method:

1. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Combine the Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk the eggs, melted dairy-free margarine or coconut oil, vanilla extract, and plant-based milk until smooth.
3. Create the Batter: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until well combined. The batter should be smooth and slightly thick.
4. Heat the Waffle Cone Maker or Skillet: Preheat your waffle cone maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If you don’t have a waffle cone maker, use a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
5. Cook the Waffle Cones: Pour about 2-3 tablespoons of batter into the centre of the waffle cone maker or skillet. Spread the batter evenly to form a circle. Close the waffle cone maker and cook for about 1-2 minutes or until golden brown. If using a skillet, cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook the other side.
6. Shape the Cones: Remove the cooked waffle round and quickly roll it around a cone-shaped mould. Hold for a few seconds until it hardens. Repeat with the remaining batter.
7. Cool and Serve: Allow the cones to cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, fill them with your favourite dairy-free or lactose-free ice cream and enjoy!

NB: If you don’t own a waffle cone maker, please head over to our article – Mastering the Art: Make Homemade Ice Cream Cones – to find directions on how to make waffle cones without a waffle cone maker.

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes per cone
Total Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes for a batch of 8-10 cones

Nutritional Information (per cone):

• Calories: 145-165
• Carbohydrates: 21-26g
• Protein: 2-3g
• Fat: 7-9g
• Fibre: 1-2g

Storage and Shelf Life:
Store cooled dairy-free waffle cones in an airtight container at room temperature. They should maintain their crispness for 3-5 days. For longer storage, place them in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between each cone. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature before use.

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Additional Storage Tips for All Recipes:

• To maintain crispness, add a small packet of silica gel or a piece of paper towel to the storage container to absorb moisture.
• If cones become slightly soft, reheat them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 2-3 minutes to restore crispness.
• Always ensure cones are completely cool before storing to prevent condensation and softening.

Please note that nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific brands of ingredients used and any slight variations in preparation.

Tips for Adaptations:

• Gluten-Free: Ensure all ingredients are labelled gluten-free, including flour and baking powder.
• Vegan: Use flax eggs, dairy-free margarine or coconut oil, and plant-based milk.
• Dairy-Free and Lactose-Free: Substitute butter with dairy-free margarine or coconut oil, and use plant-based milk like almond or oat milk.

Homemade Ice Cream with Adaptations For All!

Whether you are gluten-sensitive, vegan, or avoiding dairy, these waffle cones are adaptable and most importantly delicious.

With a few easy swaps, everyone can enjoy these crunchy and delicious ice cream waffle cones.

The ingredients listed above can be found in most supermarkets or speciality stores, making these recipes accessible and easy to prepare.

You Can Make Waffle Bowls Too!

And remember, you’re not just limited to cones, you can get creative and try out waffle bowls or cups too.

Here’s a quick guide to making them:

1. Prepare Waffle Batter: Start with your chosen, gluten-free, vegan, or dairy-free waffle batter recipe. Make sure it’s not too thick, so it spreads nicely in the waffle iron.
2. Cook the Waffles: Preheat your waffle iron. Pour a small amount of batter into the centre and close the lid. Cook until the waffle is golden brown and crisp.
3. Shape the Waffle: While the waffle is still warm and pliable, gently press it into a cup shape using a small bowl or cup. You can also use a special waffle cup mould if you have one.
4. Cool and Serve: Allow the waffle cups to cool completely before serving. They’ll firm up as they cool, making them perfect for holding your favourite ice cream.

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===>Click here to see a selection of Ice Cream Waffle Cone Makers

Now that you’ve got your waffle cones sorted, you can head over to our alternative diets recipe section to find delicious dairy-free, lactose-free or Vegan-friendly recipes

We hope that you have enjoyed our article – Ice Cream Waffle Cones For Every Diet: From Gluten-Sensitive To Dairy Substitutes – and that if you or anyone you know has any dietary challenges, you are now in a position to support their requirements with our gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan-friendly ice cream waffle cones without compromising on flavour or texture.

If you have any questions, please drop us a comment below and we’ll happily get back to you.

For more information on making your own ice cream waffle cones, check out our article – Mastering the Art: Make Homemade Ice Cream Cones – which provides further insights into creating waffle cones, and most importantly talks you through adding the all-important chocolate chunk to the bottom of your cones!

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