Snow Cone

A snow cone is a dessert item usually made of compacted shaved ice flavored with a light covering sugary syrup, usually fruit flavored.

Fast Facts

1. Also known as snowballs, shaved ice, or Raspados, depending on region
2. First snow cone-making machine invented in 1920 in Texas
3. Made in a variety of flavors and colors
4. Flavors can be mixed and matched
5. Flavors include cherry, orange, Blueberry, and countless others
6. Served with a spoon or eaten like an ice cream cone

History of the Snow Cone

In 1920, Samuel Bert of Dallas, Texas invented a snow cone-making machine. A year earlier, he sold chaved ice at the 1919 State Fair of Texas. Ernest Hansen, an inventor from New Orleans, patented an "ice block shaver" in 1934. He was helped by his wife, who created several flavors of syrup to be added to the shaved ice, which came to be known as "snowballs".

Snow Cones vs. Snowballs

"Snow Cones" and New Orleans "Snowballs" are not the same thing. Snow cones are made up of hard, grated ice and contain medium amounts of syrup. Snowballs are made of ice that is shaved to the consistency of snow with larger amounts of syrup. Snowballs are a popular item in New Orleans neighborhoods.

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