Get ready for a mouthwatering adventure as we dive into the story of Crispy Cones, a European-style dessert sensation that's taking Utah by storm! A sweet revolution is brewing, and you're about to be part of it!
Crispy Cones, a name that's as fun as it sounds, began its journey in a humble tent in Rexburg, Idaho. Fast forward a few years, and this dessert dream has blossomed into over 20 locations across the U.S.! But here's where it gets even more exciting: the cones at Crispy Cones aren't your average ice cream cones. They're handcrafted from fresh dough, grilled to perfection, and then coated in a delightful blend of sugar and cinnamon. It's like having a pastry and ice cream all in one! Imagine a warm, crispy cone, filled with premium soft serve ice cream (made with a rich 10% butter fat), topped with fresh fruits, chocolate treats, or whatever your heart desires. It's an explosion of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more.
The story behind Crispy Cones is as inspiring as the dessert itself. Founder Jeremy Carlson, after serving a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Czech Republic, was captivated by the street-side pastries. He had a dream about making these cones, and upon returning to the U.S., he made that dream a reality. One year ago, Jeremy and his wife, Kaitlyn, appeared on Shark Tank, where Barbara Corcoran invested $200,000 for a 20% stake in the business, helping them expand their franchise.
And this is the part most people miss: the impact of this dessert on a global scale. Andrei Popa, a franchisee from Romania, owns the Provo and Draper locations and is opening another in West Valley City soon. For him, it's not just a business; it's a piece of home. "It's part of me and where I come from," he says. "It's not just a pastry shop. Who doesn't love that smell? I'm bringing a piece of my home here, and it's super exciting."
I had the pleasure of trying the Cookies a la Mode, and let me tell you, it was an unforgettable experience. The warm, crispy cone, filled with soft dough, cookie butter, and vanilla ice cream, was a delight. The cookie dough bites and Oreo chunks added a delightful crunch. It was a decadent treat that left me wanting more.
Popa wants to ensure that Crispy Cones is more than just an ice cream store. "We want to give customers an unforgettable experience," he says. And with their premium ingredients and unique concept, they're certainly achieving that.
So, if you're in Utah, make sure to visit one of their locations. You won't regret it! And don't forget to share your thoughts in the comments. Are you a fan of these European-style cones? What's your favorite dessert experience? Let's spark a conversation!
