If you have fond memories of childhood summer birthday parties with snow cones, it’s time to consider getting a compact best snow cone maker for your own summer enjoyment. These machines are small enough to fit in your kitchen cupboard and are perfect for creating shaved ice treats or mixing up frozen margaritas. Summer fun is just a machine away!
What to Look for in a Snow Cone Maker
Manual snow cone makers, operated with a hand crank to shave ice, are the most accessible, affordable, and compact option. They allow you to create snow cones wherever there’s ice, but their power depends on your physical effort. If you only need to make a few snow cones for a small group, this represents a cost-effective choice.
| Operation | Manual models require elbow grease, while electric ones are more efficient, though commercial ones are noisy and pricey. |
| Safety | Home-use machines protect your hands; pro models need careful handling. |
| Size | Choose countertop for occasional use, cart for frequent gatherings. |
| Design | Some models are party-ready; others are more basic but functional. |
| Price | Budget for power and capacity; rentals are an option for one-time events. |
Our top picks: Best Snow Cone Maker for Family
Cuisinart Snow Cone Maker (SCM-10P1)
Fast and efficient ice shaving
Durable construction
Easy to clean and maintain
Great for impromptu gatherings
Syrup not included
Unlike many snow cone makers that require special pre-frozen ice blocks, this compact machine works with regular ice cubes from your freezer or store-bought bags. It can crush enough ice for four to five cones per minute. Simply load the cubes into the hopper and press down on the handle to feed them through the blades into the collection bin below. In our tests, it took six hopper loads to fill the bin, producing ice for 13 standard-size snow cones.
Setting up the Cuisinart is a breeze, and using it is foolproof—no measurements or adjustments needed. It delivers classic crunchy ice, perfect for soaking up syrup and forming domed cones, though it doesn’t create the finest-crushed snow cone texture. Its speedy operation, efficiency, and built-in trays for holding four cones while applying syrup make it an excellent choice for birthday parties or summer gatherings requiring large quantities of ice quickly. However, it may not satisfy the serious crushed-ice enthusiast seeking more control over texture.
This fun machine is also safe for kids to use with adult supervision. The hopper leaves ample space above the blades, and it comes with a scoop to avoid contact with sharp or moving parts. The package includes four reusable plastic cones and a dozen paper ones, but you might want to purchase extra cones for your next party. It doesn’t come with any syrups, so you’ll need to buy bottled snow cone syrups or create your own. The instruction booklet contains recipes; we particularly enjoyed the piña colada syrup.
While using the Cuisinart to make multiple snow cones at once, Food and Meal noticed some water dripping when opening and closing the hopper handle or pulling out the bin. It’s a good idea to place a kitchen towel beneath the machine before use. The instructions advise against using it outdoors, although the reason isn’t clear—perhaps it’s to prevent overheating in the sun. This limitation is unfortunate, as snow cones are a delightful treat for outdoor enjoyment.
Great Northern Premium Quality Ice Cub Shaved Ice Machine Commercial Ice Shaver
User-friendly and easy to operate
Impressive speed and efficiency
Sturdy build for long-term use
Manageable cleaning and maintenance
Limited ice capacity for larger gatherings
Despite its name, The Great Northern Popcorn Company offers a range of snack-making equipment, especially known for its top-tier concession gear, like this robust ice shaver. Equipped with an adjustable blade and a 1/3-horsepower motor, this machine can crush a whopping 6 pounds of ice per minute. In our tests, we found that it produced finely shredded, still-crunchy ice that leaned more towards the snow cone style than traditional shaved ice. It worked so efficiently that it often exceeded the capacity of the included small plate beneath the blade. To manage the overflow, we placed a full-size sheet pan beneath the entire machine. Given its output, you might prefer to set this up outdoors, in the garage, or in a dedicated space like a snow cone shop’s kitchen.
The Ice Cub is best suited for handling large pre-frozen ice blocks rather than smaller cubes. However, the good news is that you don’t need a special mold; you can use a storage container, bowl, or any suitable container as a mold. It can accommodate ice blocks up to 6.5 inches tall and 8 inches across. During our tests, we used a 4-quart ice block, which yielded 14 cups of snow cone. But be prepared for a somewhat finicky setup; you’ll need a perfectly level surface for the blade to work effectively, and we had to shape and refine our ice block before it was ready for shaving.
Despite the cheerful bear with sunglasses on its surface, it’s crucial to remember that this ice maker is not a toy. Essentially functioning like a drill press, it features a sharp blade spinning at 1,700 RPM and minimal safety features to safeguard your hands. Adjusting the blade requires direct contact with the sharp edge, so it’s imperative that children avoid using this machine, and adults exercise extreme caution.
This heavy-duty model weighs a substantial 40 pounds and takes up a considerable amount of space, with a price tag to match. However, if you’re a dedicated snow cone enthusiast with a large family or have aspirations of launching your own snow cone business, you’ll be rewarded with copious amounts of fluffy, consistently shaved ice in a matter of moments.
Shoxil Manual Shaved Ice Machine
User-friendly operation suitable for all skill levels
Manual control allows customization
Durable build for long-term use
Easy and minimal cleanup
Slower compared to electric models
The Shoxil machine delivers finely shaved ice at an affordable price of just 20 bucks. However, there’s a catch: you’ll need to manually crank it yourself.
During our testing, we were pleasantly surprised by the consistent texture achieved by the manual unit. After loading an ice block, we secured the lid, ensuring even pressure against the blade, regardless of the speed at which we turned the crank. The Shoxil’s blade operates akin to a cheese grater, creating ultra-thin ice slices rather than the larger pebbles typical of snow cones. The result is a delicate, fluffy dessert that readily absorbs syrup. While it tends to melt faster than the crunchier-style snow cone, our tests showed that the ice maintained a reasonably good texture even after sitting on the counter for five minutes.
One key to this machine’s consistency is its use of an ice puck specifically designed to fit. This is advantageous in one aspect but less so in another: Each ice puck takes a minimum of six hours to freeze completely, and the unit includes only one mold. Each puck yields approximately three servings, so you can’t produce a substantial amount of shaved ice with this machine without significant pre-freezing.
SNOWIE - Little Snowie Max Snow Cone Machine
Impressive speed and efficiency
Durable construction built to last
Easy and minimal cleanup
Great for impromptu gatherings
Slightly louder than manual models
The Snowie company, renowned for its high-priced commercial shaved ice machines, has integrated some of those professional features into its home-friendly Little Snowie machines. The Little Snowie Max, crafted for home use, showcases an angled dispensing system that enables direct cup or cone filling, complete with a domed spout for creating the perfect rounded top. Unlike some machines, it accommodates standard ice cubes, eliminating the need for specialized ice shapes, and its design seamlessly integrates it into your kitchen countertop alongside the toaster and coffee machine.
While not exactly petite, the Little Snowie Max impressively maximizes its capacity within its compact size. The hopper can contain half a gallon of ice cubes, sufficient for nine extra-large servings in a single batch (note that it includes 8-ounce cups, larger than the classic paper cone). Additionally, it comes with six packets of syrup mix in various flavors and colors, along with two dispenser bottles equipped with spouts for mixing and pouring.
This machine consistently delivers excellent results, yielding uniform, crunchy pellets in each batch. Its texture leans more towards a snow cone than shaved ice, but it excels in the snow cone department. It effortlessly processes a full half-gallon of ice cubes in under a minute, and a notable safety feature ensures that the motor operates only when the ice hopper’s lid is fully closed.
While this machine offers user-friendly operation, power, speed, and includes all necessary accessories, it comes with a substantial price tag, ranking as one of the pricier options we tested. Additionally, it emits considerable noise and may exhibit some countertop movement during operation. While it doesn’t compromise safety or performance, you may need to hold the unit in place while in use.
ZENY Ice Shaver Machine Electric Snow Cone Maker
Impressive speed and precision
Durable construction built to last
Easy and minimal cleanup
Ideal for quick snow cone preparation
Slightly louder than manual models
This compact yet powerful machine is designed for commercial settings like restaurants or food trucks, but its affordable price makes it a viable option for home use as well. The Zeny can churn out a remarkable 143 pounds of snow-cone ice per hour—provided you have 143 pounds of ice at your disposal. When you need to serve a crowd of exuberant children on a school bus, this is the machine to consider.
The Zeny boasts a substantial hopper that can accommodate ice of varying sizes and shapes, utilizing a plunger to feed it through the blades. Notably, the motor automatically shuts off when the plunger is open, enhancing safety. We achieved impressively consistent texture across multiple batches, even when applying varying levels of force to the plunger. The crushed ice is dispensed into an attached rotating bowl, although the bowl is notably smaller than the hopper—during our test, a single hopper-load filled the bowl three times.
Due to its high power, this machine generates noise similar to a lawnmower. However, its substantial weight and stable base prevent it from moving around on the countertop. In testing, it proved somewhat messy, as the high-speed ice flow occasionally exceeded the bowl’s capacity, scattering ice bits. Fortunately, it’s only water, making cleanup a straightforward task.
Time for Treats VKP1101 SnowFlake Snow Cone Maker
ADJUSTABLE SHAVING BLADE: You can produce ice shavings just like you want them. Stainless steel blade set to ideal angle for light, fluffy snow.
STACKABLE MOLDS: Includes 3 Ice Molds with lids you can stack when freezing
User-friendly operation for all skill levels
Hand-crank mechanism allows customization
Compact and portable
Easy and minimal cleanup
Slower compared to electric models
Prepare for snow cones on a picnic, at the beach, or in your backyard by packing a cooler with ice and bringing along this manual ice shaver. Despite its budget-friendly price, it offers blade adjustment options to achieve the desired snow-cone texture. Once we determined the ideal setting (very fine shaving worked best), we consistently obtained finely textured snow-cone ice with a pleasing blend of fluffiness and crunchiness.
Regrettably, the Time for Treats model’s inexpensive construction presents some challenges during use. The flimsy plastic construction makes it challenging to turn the crank without the entire machine shifting around on the countertop. Additionally, adjusting the texture necessitates loosening two screws to manually reposition the sharp blade. While snow cones are typically kid-friendly, this machine’s instability and sharp components recommend that only adults handle the loading and cranking. When set to a coarser ice texture, its performance deteriorates, producing unpleasant squeaks, scrapes, and large, sharp ice shards. It’s advisable to keep this machine configured for fine or medium settings.
The kit includes three stackable lidded molds designed for crafting perfectly sized ice blocks, although regular ice cubes can also be used. Since it relies on muscle power, the Time for Treats model may not be the most suitable choice for making snow cones for a large crowd. Nevertheless, it serves as an excellent option for quickly preparing one or two servings on any casual evening.
Nostalgia Vintage Countertop Snow Cone Maker
User-friendly operation for all skill levels
Electric operation for efficient ice shaving
Compact and countertop-friendly
Easy and convenient cleanup
May not have the same level of durability as some heavy-duty models
This delightful snow cone maker brings the charm of a mini old-fashioned push-cart, complete with two wheels, two legs, and a petite shelf that accommodates two cones for serving, directly to your kitchen counter. It’s a delightful way to infuse a touch of carnival flair into events like birthdays, pool parties, or barbecues. Despite its whimsical appearance, it doesn’t compromise on power or capacity, featuring a bin that can hold enough shaved ice for approximately 20 cones.
Similar to the previously mentioned Cuisinart model, this machine also works with standard ice cubes. However, its operation is a bit more involved: You load the hopper chamber with ice cubes, secure the lid in place, and wait about 30 seconds as it transforms the cubes into pebbly ice. We found that the snow cone texture achieved with the Nostalgia Vintage machine was nearly perfect, boasting tiny, consistently sized crunchy bits.
One drawback is that the hopper chamber, which holds the pre-shaved ice cubes, is significantly smaller than the generously sized bin. This means you’ll need to repeatedly open, refill, and re-shave if you intend to make snow cones for a large gathering. The machine’s layout also presents some challenges: You must scoop the crushed ice through the machine’s rather small door, making it prone to spills, especially if you have larger hands. Disassembling and cleaning the unit can be slightly intricate, although on the bright side, the components primarily come into contact with water and typically require only a simple wipe-down after use.
FAQs about Snow Cone Maker for Family
Q1: Why should I consider a snow cone maker for family use? A1: Snow cone makers offer a fun and refreshing way to enjoy icy treats at home. They are easy to use, and making snow cones together can be a delightful family activity, especially during hot weather.
Q2: What types of snow cone makers are suitable for families? A2: Electric countertop machines and manual hand-cranked models are popular choices for families. Electric models are more convenient, while manual options can be suitable for outdoor use or when electricity is not readily available.
Q3: Can children use a snow cone maker safely? A3: Many snow cone makers are designed with safety features, and with proper supervision, children can safely operate them. However, it’s essential to follow the manufacturer’s age recommendations and safety guidelines.
Q4: What features should I look for in a family-friendly snow cone maker? A4: Look for a machine with a durable and easy-to-clean design, a powerful motor for efficient ice shaving, and safety features such as an automatic shut-off. Consider models with various ice texture settings for customizable snow cones.
Q5: How fast can a snow cone maker produce shaved ice for a family? A5: The production speed varies between models. Electric snow cone makers typically produce shaved ice in a matter of seconds, while manual models may require a bit more effort and time.
Q6: Can I use regular ice cubes in a snow cone maker? A6: Most snow cone makers are designed to work with regular ice cubes. However, it’s essential to check the specific requirements of the machine to ensure optimal performance.
Q7: Are there snow cone makers that can also crush ice for other uses? A7: Some snow cone makers have dual functionality and can be used to crush ice for various purposes, such as making frozen drinks or smoothies. Check the product specifications to confirm this feature.
Q8: How do I clean a snow cone maker for family use? A8: Cleaning methods may vary, but many snow cone makers have removable parts that are dishwasher safe. Wipe down the machine with a damp cloth after each use and follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions in the user manual.
I'm Kelly Atkinson, with a passion for dissecting the world of home goods. My reviews stem from thorough testing and a love for sharing detailed insights. Each piece I write offers a glimpse into my explorative journey, aiming to guide readers to informed choices with authenticity and precision, making every review a blend of exploration and expertise.
I'm Mark Zoch, a culinary expert, Production Manager at Hana Hotel Travel Company, and the proud founder of "The Dinner Dude." My journey, shaped by personal and familial health struggles, has also led me to become a renowned health coach in Houston, where I'm dedicated to transforming lives through tailored nutrition and wellness programs.