Unleash Your Inner Chef: Creative Recipes with Costco’s Just the Fun Part Waffle Cones
Costco’s “Just the Fun Part” waffle cones are more than just a vessel for ice cream. These crispy, golden delights can be transformed into a multitude of delicious and unexpected treats. This article dives deep into creative recipes that utilize these versatile cones, offering detailed steps and instructions for each. Get ready to unleash your inner chef and explore the endless possibilities!
## Why Choose Costco’s Just the Fun Part Waffle Cones?
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s highlight why Costco’s waffle cones are a pantry staple:
* **Quantity:** You get a generous supply of cones at a great price.
* **Quality:** These cones are consistently crispy and have a pleasant vanilla flavor.
* **Versatility:** As you’ll see, they can be used in sweet and savory applications.
* **Shelf Life:** When stored properly (airtight container), they have a decent shelf life.
## Storage Tips for Waffle Cone Perfection
To ensure your waffle cones remain crisp and ready for your culinary adventures, proper storage is key. Here’s how to keep them in tip-top shape:
* **Airtight Container:** The most important step is to store them in an airtight container. This prevents them from absorbing moisture from the air, which can make them soggy.
* **Cool, Dry Place:** Store the container in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat. A pantry or cupboard is ideal.
* **Avoid Refrigeration:** Refrigeration is generally not recommended as it can introduce moisture and affect the texture of the cones.
* **Silica Gel Packets:** For added protection, consider adding a few silica gel packets to the container. These packets absorb moisture and help keep the cones crisp.
## Recipe 1: Waffle Cone Parfaits
This is a simple yet elegant dessert that’s perfect for parties or a special treat. It allows for endless customization with your favorite fruits, yogurts, and toppings.
**Ingredients:**
* Costco’s “Just the Fun Part” Waffle Cones
* Your favorite yogurt (Greek, vanilla, strawberry, etc.)
* Fresh fruits (berries, bananas, peaches, kiwi, etc.), chopped
* Granola or chopped nuts
* Chocolate sauce, caramel sauce, or honey (optional)
* Whipped cream (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the ingredients:** Wash and chop the fresh fruits into bite-sized pieces. Gather your yogurt, granola, and any other desired toppings.
2. **Assemble the parfaits:** Carefully break waffle cones into smaller, manageable pieces. You can break them into quarters or smaller depending on the size of your parfait glasses or bowls.
3. **Layer the ingredients:** In each glass or bowl, start with a layer of broken waffle cone pieces. Then, add a layer of yogurt, followed by a layer of fruit. Repeat these layers until the glass is nearly full, ending with a layer of fruit or yogurt.
4. **Add toppings:** Sprinkle granola or chopped nuts over the top. Drizzle with chocolate sauce, caramel sauce, or honey, if desired.
5. **Garnish and serve:** Top with whipped cream and a few extra pieces of fruit for a beautiful presentation. Serve immediately or chill for a few minutes before serving.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Frozen Yogurt Parfaits:** Use frozen yogurt instead of regular yogurt for a cooler treat.
* **Chocolate-Dipped Cones:** Dip the broken waffle cone pieces in melted chocolate and let them harden before assembling the parfaits.
* **Savory Parfaits:** For a savory twist, use hummus, chopped vegetables, and feta cheese instead of yogurt and fruit.
* **Individual Waffle Cone Cups:** Instead of breaking the cones, use whole cones as individual cups. Fill each cone with yogurt, fruit, and toppings for a fun and portable treat.
## Recipe 2: Waffle Cone Cereal Treats
These are a playful twist on classic rice cereal treats. The waffle cone adds a delightful crunch and unique flavor.
**Ingredients:**
* Costco’s “Just the Fun Part” Waffle Cones (about 8-10 cones), crushed
* 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) butter
* 4 cups mini marshmallows
* 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
* Sprinkles (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Crush the waffle cones:** Place the waffle cones in a large zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin or your hands until you have small, uneven pieces. Don’t crush them too finely; you want to retain some texture.
2. **Melt the butter:** In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. **Add the marshmallows:** Add the marshmallows to the melted butter and stir constantly until they are completely melted and smooth.
4. **Stir in vanilla extract:** Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
5. **Add the crushed waffle cones:** Pour the crushed waffle cones into the melted marshmallow mixture and stir gently until they are evenly coated. Be careful not to overmix.
6. **Press into a pan:** Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper. Transfer the waffle cone mixture to the prepared pan and press it down firmly and evenly with a spatula or your hands (you can lightly grease your hands to prevent sticking).
7. **Add sprinkles (optional):** If desired, sprinkle the top with sprinkles before the mixture cools.
8. **Cool and cut:** Let the cereal treats cool completely in the pan for at least 30 minutes. Once cooled, cut them into squares or bars.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Chocolate Chips:** Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the melted marshmallow mixture for a chocolatey treat.
* **Peanut Butter:** Add 1/4 cup of peanut butter to the melted marshmallow mixture for a peanut butter flavor.
* **Different Cereals:** Mix in other cereals like Rice Krispies or Cheerios for added texture and flavor.
* **Drizzle with Chocolate:** Drizzle the cooled cereal treats with melted chocolate for a decorative touch.
## Recipe 3: Waffle Cone Crumble Topping
This simple crumble topping adds a delightful crunch and sweetness to pies, crisps, and other desserts.
**Ingredients:**
* Costco’s “Just the Fun Part” Waffle Cones (about 4-6 cones), coarsely crushed
* 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
* 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
* 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/4 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat oven:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. **Crush the waffle cones:** Place the waffle cones in a zip-top bag and crush them coarsely with a rolling pin or your hands. You want to retain some larger pieces for texture.
3. **Combine dry ingredients:** In a medium bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
4. **Cut in the butter:** Add the cold butter pieces to the bowl and use a pastry blender or your fingers to cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
5. **Stir in the crushed waffle cones:** Gently stir in the crushed waffle cones until they are evenly distributed.
6. **Sprinkle over dessert:** Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over your favorite fruit pie, crisp, or cobbler.
7. **Bake:** Bake according to the recipe instructions for your specific dessert, or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is tender.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Nuts:** Add 1/4 cup of chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts, or almonds) to the crumble topping for added flavor and texture.
* **Oats:** Add 1/4 cup of rolled oats to the crumble topping for a heartier texture.
* **Spices:** Experiment with different spices like nutmeg, ginger, or cardamom.
* **Coconut:** Add 1/4 cup of shredded coconut to the crumble topping for a tropical twist.
## Recipe 4: Waffle Cone Bark
This is a fun and easy no-bake treat that’s perfect for gifting or snacking. It’s a great way to use up leftover waffle cones.
**Ingredients:**
* Costco’s “Just the Fun Part” Waffle Cones (about 6-8 cones), broken into pieces
* 12 ounces chocolate (milk, dark, or white), chopped
* Your favorite toppings (sprinkles, chopped nuts, dried fruit, mini marshmallows, pretzels, etc.)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare a baking sheet:** Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. **Break the waffle cones:** Break the waffle cones into small, uneven pieces.
3. **Melt the chocolate:** Melt the chocolate in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
4. **Spread the chocolate:** Pour the melted chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it into an even layer.
5. **Sprinkle with waffle cone pieces:** Sprinkle the broken waffle cone pieces evenly over the melted chocolate.
6. **Add toppings:** Sprinkle your favorite toppings over the waffle cone pieces. Get creative with your combinations!
7. **Chill:** Refrigerate the bark for at least 30 minutes, or until the chocolate is firm.
8. **Break into pieces:** Once the chocolate is firm, break the bark into irregular pieces.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Peanut Butter Cups:** Add chopped peanut butter cups to the toppings.
* **M&Ms:** Add M&Ms for a colorful and festive treat.
* **Sea Salt:** Sprinkle with sea salt for a sweet and salty flavor.
* **Swirl Two Types of Chocolate:** Swirl melted white chocolate into the melted dark chocolate (or vice versa) for a visually appealing bark.
## Recipe 5: Waffle Cone Ice Cream Sandwiches
Take your ice cream sandwiches to the next level with these unique waffle cone sandwiches. They are easier to eat than traditional ice cream sandwiches because the cone provides a secure grip and minimizes mess.
**Ingredients:**
* Costco’s “Just the Fun Part” Waffle Cones
* Your favorite ice cream, slightly softened
* Toppings (sprinkles, chocolate chips, chopped nuts, etc.) (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Soften the ice cream:** Let your ice cream soften slightly at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes. This will make it easier to scoop and spread.
2. **Prepare the cones:** Choose two waffle cones that are similar in size and shape.
3. **Fill the cones:** Scoop a generous amount of softened ice cream onto the inside of one waffle cone. Use a spoon or spatula to spread the ice cream evenly, leaving a little space at the top.
4. **Top with the other cone:** Gently place the second waffle cone on top of the ice cream, creating a sandwich.
5. **Add toppings (optional):** If desired, roll the edges of the ice cream sandwich in your favorite toppings, such as sprinkles, chocolate chips, or chopped nuts.
6. **Freeze:** Wrap the ice cream sandwich in plastic wrap and freeze for at least 30 minutes, or until the ice cream is firm.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Different Ice Cream Flavors:** Experiment with different ice cream flavors to find your favorite combination.
* **Dipped Cones:** Dip the waffle cones in melted chocolate and let them harden before filling them with ice cream.
* **Homemade Ice Cream:** Use homemade ice cream for an extra special treat.
* **Mini Ice Cream Sandwiches:** Use smaller waffle cones or break larger cones in half to make mini ice cream sandwiches.
## Recipe 6: Waffle Cone Tiramisu Cups
A delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert, tiramisu. The waffle cone adds a satisfying crunch to complement the creamy layers.
**Ingredients:**
* Costco’s “Just the Fun Part” Waffle Cones
* 1 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
* 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional)
* 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
* 1/2 cup granulated sugar
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 cup heavy cream, whipped
* Cocoa powder, for dusting
* Chocolate shavings, for garnish (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the coffee mixture:** In a shallow dish, combine the cooled coffee and coffee liqueur (if using).
2. **Soften the cream cheese:** In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
3. **Fold in the whipped cream:** Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until well combined.
4. **Dip the waffle cones:** Dip the top rim of each waffle cone into the coffee mixture, then set aside.
5. **Layer the ingredients:** Spoon a layer of the cream cheese mixture into each waffle cone, filling about one-third of the way. Then, sprinkle a little cocoa powder over the cream. Repeat these layers two more times, ending with a layer of cream.
6. **Chill:** Refrigerate the tiramisu cups for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together.
7. **Dust and garnish:** Before serving, dust the tops of the tiramisu cups with cocoa powder and garnish with chocolate shavings, if desired.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Espresso Powder:** Add a teaspoon of espresso powder to the coffee mixture for a stronger coffee flavor.
* **Amaretti Cookies:** Crumble amaretti cookies into the layers for added texture and flavor.
* **Chocolate Cream:** Add melted chocolate to the cream cheese mixture for a chocolate tiramisu.
* **Mascarpone Cheese:** Substitute mascarpone cheese for cream cheese for a more authentic tiramisu flavor.
## Recipe 7: Savory Waffle Cone Appetizers: Mini Taco Cones
Who says waffle cones are only for sweet treats? These mini taco cones are a fun and easy appetizer that’s perfect for parties.
**Ingredients:**
* Costco’s “Just the Fun Part” Waffle Cones
* 1 pound ground beef or turkey
* 1 packet taco seasoning
* 1/2 cup water
* Your favorite taco toppings (shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream, salsa, guacamole, etc.)
**Instructions:**
1. **Brown the meat:** In a large skillet, brown the ground beef or turkey over medium heat. Drain off any excess grease.
2. **Add taco seasoning:** Stir in the taco seasoning and water. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
3. **Prepare the cones:** Arrange the waffle cones on a serving platter.
4. **Fill the cones:** Spoon the taco meat into each waffle cone, filling it about three-quarters full.
5. **Add toppings:** Top the taco meat with your favorite taco toppings, such as shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream, salsa, and guacamole.
6. **Serve:** Serve immediately and watch them disappear!
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Vegetarian Tacos:** Use vegetarian ground meat substitute or black beans instead of ground beef or turkey.
* **Chicken Tacos:** Use shredded cooked chicken instead of ground beef or turkey.
* **Spicy Tacos:** Add chopped jalapenos or a dash of hot sauce to the taco meat.
* **Mini Bell Peppers:** Use mini bell peppers instead of waffle cones for a lower-carb option.
## Recipe 8: Waffle Cone S’mores Bites
Everything you love about s’mores, but in a conveniently bite-sized and less messy package!
**Ingredients:**
* Costco’s “Just the Fun Part” Waffle Cones (broken into small pieces)
* 1 cup milk chocolate chips
* 1 cup mini marshmallows
* Graham cracker crumbs (optional, for dusting)
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat oven or toaster oven:** Preheat your oven or toaster oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. **Prepare a baking sheet:** Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. **Assemble the bites:** Arrange small pieces of broken waffle cones on the baking sheet, creating small clusters.
4. **Top with chocolate and marshmallows:** Sprinkle chocolate chips and mini marshmallows over each waffle cone cluster.
5. **Bake:** Bake in the preheated oven for 3-5 minutes, or until the marshmallows are puffed and the chocolate is melted. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
6. **Cool:** Remove from the oven and let cool completely on the baking sheet.
7. **Dust with graham cracker crumbs (optional):** If desired, dust the s’mores bites with graham cracker crumbs before serving.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Dark Chocolate:** Use dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
* **Peanut Butter Cups:** Add chopped peanut butter cups to the chocolate and marshmallow topping.
* **Caramel:** Drizzle with caramel sauce after baking.
* **Pretzel Bites:** Add pretzel bites to the waffle cone clusters for a salty-sweet treat.
## Recipe 9: Waffle Cone Christmas Trees
A festive and edible craft project that’s perfect for the holidays! These waffle cone Christmas trees are fun to make and even more fun to eat.
**Ingredients:**
* Costco’s “Just the Fun Part” Waffle Cones
* Green frosting (or white frosting and green food coloring)
* Sprinkles, candies, or other decorations
* Optional: Star-shaped candy for the top
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the cones:** Ensure the waffle cones are intact and standing upright.
2. **Frost the cones:** Frost the waffle cones with green frosting, starting at the base and working your way up to the top. You can use a piping bag with a star tip for a more decorative look, or simply spread the frosting with a knife or spatula.
3. **Decorate:** Immediately decorate the frosted cones with sprinkles, candies, and other decorations. Get creative with your designs!
4. **Add a star (optional):** Place a star-shaped candy on the top of each cone to complete the Christmas tree look.
5. **Let the frosting set:** Allow the frosting to set completely before serving.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Different Shades of Green:** Use different shades of green frosting to create a more realistic Christmas tree effect.
* **Edible Glitter:** Sprinkle with edible glitter for a sparkly finish.
* **Chocolate Cones:** Dip the waffle cones in melted chocolate before frosting them for a chocolatey tree.
* **Pretzel Sticks:** Break pretzel sticks into small pieces and use them as “branches” on the trees.
## Recipe 10: Waffle Cone Cake Pops (Easier Version)
Skip the cake baking and decorating struggle. This version uses store-bought cake mix and simplifies the process using the cone as a holding base.
**Ingredients:**
* Costco’s “Just the Fun Part” Waffle Cones
* Prepared cake mix (baked and cooled, any flavor) – crumbled
* Frosting (to bind the cake crumbs)
* Melting chocolate or candy melts (various colors for decorating)
* Sprinkles, edible glitter (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare Cake Crumbs:** Bake a cake according to package instructions. Let it cool completely. Once cooled, crumble the cake into fine crumbs in a large bowl.
2. **Mix Cake Crumbs with Frosting:** Add frosting to the crumbled cake, a little at a time, until the mixture is moist enough to form balls but not too sticky. The amount of frosting needed will vary depending on the cake. Aim for a playdough-like consistency.
3. **Shape and Assemble:** Gently press some of the cake mixture into the open end of a waffle cone, filling it about two-thirds full. Shape the top into a rounded dome. Repeat for all cones.
4. **Chill (Important):** Place the cones upright on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the cake mixture to firm up. This will prevent the pops from falling off the cones when dipped.
5. **Melt Chocolate/Candy Melts:** Melt your choice of chocolate or candy melts according to package instructions. If melting in the microwave, use 30-second intervals and stir in between to avoid burning.
6. **Dip and Decorate:** Holding the waffle cone, carefully dip the cake pop into the melted chocolate, coating it evenly. Gently tap off any excess chocolate.
7. **Decorate immediately** Before the chocolate sets, sprinkle with your choice of sprinkles or edible glitter. You can also add other decorations like melted chocolate drizzles using a piping bag or spoon.
8. **Let Set:** Place the decorated cake pops upright on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Allow the chocolate to set completely, which may take 15-30 minutes at room temperature or less in the refrigerator.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Flavor Combinations:** Match your cake and frosting flavors! Chocolate cake with chocolate frosting, vanilla cake with strawberry frosting, etc.
* **Color Coordination:** Choose melting chocolate and sprinkles that complement each other.
* **Stabilizing the Cones:** If you’re having trouble keeping the cones upright, you can create a stand by poking holes in a cardboard box or using a styrofoam block.
* **Double Dipping:** For a thicker chocolate coating, dip the cake pops twice, allowing the first layer to set before dipping again.
## Conclusion
Costco’s “Just the Fun Part” waffle cones are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of creative and delicious recipes. From simple parfaits and cereal treats to more elaborate tiramisu cups and savory appetizers, the possibilities are endless. So, grab a box of waffle cones and get ready to unleash your inner chef! Remember to store your waffle cones properly to keep them crisp and ready for your next culinary adventure.