Can I use other nuts or keep it nut-free?

Absolutely! Roasted almonds, cashews, or even macadamias work beautifully. For a nut-free version, sunflower or pumpkin seeds are perfect—just toast them first for maximum flavor.

Is this topping only for vanilla ice cream?

Not at all! While vanilla is classic, this crunch topping goes with chocolate, strawberry, peanut butter, caramel swirl, or any flavor your heart desires. Don’t be afraid to experiment!

How do I keep the crunch topping from getting sticky?

Humidity is the enemy—store the topping in an airtight container and avoid opening it on humid days. If it does clump, you can spread it out and let it air-dry a bit before serving.

Can kids help make this?

Kids will love helping crush the brittle and mix in the sprinkles, but keep them away from the hot caramel step for safety. Once the brittle is cool, it’s a fun family project!

Copycat Dairy Queen Crunch Cone Recipe

Description

This Copycat Dairy Queen Crunch Cone recipe recreates the classic ice cream topping at home with just a handful of easy-to-find ingredients. Featuring crunchy peanut brittle tossed with colorful rainbow sprinkles, this nostalgic treat is perfect for topping your favorite vanilla ice cream on a cake cone. Enjoy a delicious crunch in every bite!

Ingredients

Units Scale

Peanut Brittle Crunch

2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup water
2 cups unsalted roasted peanuts, crushed

Crunch Coating Mix

1 1/4 cups Betty Crocker rainbow sprinkles

For Serving

Vanilla ice cream
Cake cones

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Instructions

Make the Sugar Syrup. In a sauté pan over medium heat, add the granulated sugar and water. Stir continuously with a wooden spoon until all the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is clear.
Cook the Caramel. Continue cooking the sugar mixture. Let it cook undisturbed until the sides begin to brown and the bubbles slow down. Swirl the pan gently and carefully until the color turns a light yellow caramel shade.
Add Peanuts. Immediately add the crushed peanuts to the caramelized sugar. Stir gently until the peanuts are thoroughly coated in caramel.
Cool the Brittle. Spread the peanut mixture onto a Silpat-lined sheet tray, spreading it out as much as possible. Allow the brittle to cool and harden completely at room temperature.
Crush the Brittle. Once cooled, place the peanut brittle into a Ziploc bag. Use a mallet or rolling pin to smash the brittle until it’s broken into small, sprinkle-sized pieces.
Mix with Sprinkles. Transfer the crushed brittle to a bowl and toss with the rainbow sprinkles to combine evenly. Store in an airtight container.
Assemble the Crunch Cone. Scoop vanilla ice cream onto a cake cone, then roll or dip the top of the ice cream generously into the peanut sprinkle crunch coating. Enjoy immediately!

Notes

Use caution when working with hot caramel to avoid burns.
For extra crunch, leave some peanut brittle pieces slightly larger.
The crunch coating can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
Works best with vanilla ice cream, but feel free to use other flavors.

Nutrition

Serving Size: About 1/2 cup crunch coating with 1 scoop ice cream and 1 cake cone
Calories: 330
Sugar: 36g
Sodium: 35mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 11g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 7g
Cholesterol: 0mg