Introduction
Nothing triggers childhood memories quite like an ice cream cone, and for many Americans, Nutty Buddy ice cream reigns supreme. With its crunchy sugar cone, creamy vanilla center, and thick coating of chocolate and roasted peanuts, this treat is a classic. But Nutty Buddy is more than just a dessert—it’s a story of innovation, nostalgia, and enduring taste. In this article, we’ll take a flavorful journey through the history, popularity, and modern reinvention of Nutty Buddy ice cream..Gluten Free Ice Cream Sandwiches
Whether you’ve just rediscovered this favorite from your youth or are hearing about it for the first time, this guide will give you everything you need to know—from where it came from to how you can make it at home.
What Is Nutty Buddy Ice Cream?
Nutty Buddy ice cream is a frozen dessert consisting of vanilla ice cream in a sugar cone, topped with a chocolate shell and chopped roasted peanuts. This sweet-and-savory treat is known for its layers of texture—creamy inside, crunchy outside—and a rich combination of flavors that appeal to both kids and adults.
While it’s often confused with the Nestlé Drumstick, Nutty Buddy has its own distinct branding and backstory. It’s sold under several labels across the U.S. and is especially popular in the South and Midwest.
A Brief History of Nutty Buddy
From Drumstick to Nutty Buddy
The first known chocolate-covered ice cream cone was the Drumstick, invented in Texas in 1931. Named for its resemblance to a chicken drumstick, it became a national icon.
Nutty Buddy followed in the 1950s, produced initially by the Maryland Baking Company and later franchised to companies across New England and the South. Though many believe the name came from Little Debbie’s Nutty Buddy bars, those are a different peanut butter wafer snack.
The Nutty Buddy cone we know today has been passed through different brands but retains the original charm: a nostalgic, affordable summer treat.
External Link Suggestion:
Passionate Foodie – Origins of the Nutty Buddy
Why Nutty Buddy Is Trending Now
Several reasons explain the sudden surge of interest in Nutty Buddy ice cream:
- Nostalgia marketing: People in their 30s and 40s are eager to reconnect with their childhood treats.
- Social media: Viral videos and Reddit threads have reignited love for the cone.
- Brand repackaging: Companies like DeConna and Mayfield are bringing back Nutty Buddy cones in retro packaging, driving renewed interest.
As more people search for old favorites or explore retro desserts, Nutty Buddy is making its comeback in grocery stores, ice cream trucks, and even TikTok tutorials..Fig Ice Cream Recipe
The Flavor and Texture That Made It Iconic
A perfect Nutty Buddy cone delivers a mix of textures and flavors:
- Cool, rich vanilla: The base is often made with high-butterfat vanilla ice cream.
- Chocolate coating: A hard chocolate shell gives a satisfying snap.
- Peanut topping: Roasted peanuts add salty crunch.
- Crispy cone: The sugar cone finishes with a sweet, earthy crunch.
The contrast between creamy and crunchy, cold and sweet, makes it endlessly satisfying—especially in the summer sun.
Where to Buy Nutty Buddy Ice Cream
Ice Cream Trucks and Scoop Shops
Nutty Buddy cones are still a staple in many local ice cream trucks and mom-and-pop scoop shops. You’ll often find regional variations or store brands offering similar treats under different names.
Grocery Stores and Wholesalers
Many grocery stores carry bulk or boxed versions of Nutty Buddy. Notable options include:
- Mayfield Dairy Farms
- DeConna Ice Cream
- Klein’s Naturals
You can also buy in bulk from online wholesalers or distributors.
External Link Suggestion:
DeConna – Nutty Buddy Ice Cream Cones
How to Make a DIY Nutty Buddy at Home
Want to make your own Nutty Buddy cones? Here’s a simple DIY version:
Ingredients:
- Sugar cones
- Vanilla ice cream (premium or homemade)
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Coconut oil (optional for melting)
- Roasted peanuts, chopped
Instructions:
- Soften the vanilla ice cream slightly, then scoop it into the cones.
- Freeze for 1–2 hours until firm.
- Melt chocolate chips with a bit of coconut oil in the microwave.
- Dip each ice cream top into the chocolate.
- Immediately sprinkle with chopped peanuts.
- Freeze again for 30–60 minutes before serving.
This version lets you customize flavors, toppings, and cone types. Add sea salt or drizzle white chocolate for an elevated twist.
External Link Suggestion:
Wikipedia – Nutty Buddy (ice cream)
FAQs About Nutty Buddy Ice Cream
Is Nutty Buddy the same as a Drumstick?
No. While they share ingredients and format, Nutty Buddy is a distinct brand originally made by different producers than Nestlé’s Drumstick.
Can I buy Nutty Buddy online?
Yes, you can find it on sites like DeConna.com or in the frozen section of major retailers.
Are there allergy-friendly versions?
Traditional Nutty Buddy cones contain peanuts, dairy, and gluten. Some brands offer peanut-free or dairy-free options.
How long has Nutty Buddy been around?
Since the early 1950s, with strong roots in New England and Maryland.
What’s the difference between Nutty Buddy bars and cones?
Nutty Buddy bars are Little Debbie’s peanut butter wafer snacks. Nutty Buddy cones are ice cream products.
Conclusion
Nutty Buddy ice cream is more than a dessert—it’s a cultural touchstone. With its creamy vanilla base, crunchy chocolate and peanut topping, and crispy cone, it’s the perfect combination of flavor, texture, and nostalgia. Whether you’re eating one from an old-school ice cream truck or making them at home, Nutty Buddy brings joy with every bite.
Now that it’s trending again, there’s no better time to indulge in—or write about—this iconic treat. And if you want to share the love, don’t forget to post your Nutty Buddy photos and creations on social media. Your audience (and the Google algorithm) will thank you.
Name: Nutty Buddy Ice Cream
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Instructions:
- Scoop softened vanilla ice cream into sugar cones, creating a rounded dome on top.
- Place cones upright on a tray lined with parchment paper and freeze for 1–2 hours until solid.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate chips with coconut oil in 30-second bursts, stirring between each until smooth.
- Dip the frozen tops of each cone into the melted chocolate, rotating to coat evenly.
- Immediately sprinkle or roll the dipped tops in chopped roasted peanuts.
- Return the cones to the freezer for another 30–60 minutes to set completely before serving.