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The Snoopy Snow Cone Machine is one of those toys that can bring back childhood memories before you even open the box.
Many parents remember seeing the original Snoopy machine when they were kids. Now, a newer version is available for another generation of Snoopy fans.
But is the Snoopy Snow Cone Machine actually worth buying?
Or is it one of those cute toys that ends up collecting dust after the first week?
In this Snoopy Snow Cone Machine review, we will look at how it works, what comes with it, its biggest pros and cons, and whether it is a good choice for your family.
Quick Verdict: Is the Snoopy Snow Cone Machine Worth It?
The Snoopy Snow Cone Machine can be worth it for families looking for an affordable activity that kids can enjoy with an adult.
It is cute, easy to understand, and does not require batteries or electricity. Kids can turn ice into a small frozen treat using the hand crank.
However, this is more of a fun kitchen toy than a serious snow cone appliance.
It takes some time and effort to shave the ice. It also makes small servings, so it is not the best choice for quickly serving a large birthday party.
For Snoopy fans and families who enjoy hands-on activities, it can still be a fun purchase.
Best for: Snoopy fans, children ages six and older, summer activities, small families, and gift giving.
Not best for: Large parties, impatient kids, or families wanting a fast electric snow cone machine.
What Is the Snoopy Snow Cone Machine?
The Snoopy Snow Cone Machine is a manual ice shaver made by Cra-Z-Art.
The machine is shaped like Snoopy sitting on top of his famous red doghouse. Kids place a specially shaped piece of ice into the machine and turn the handle to shave it.
The shaved ice falls into a small cup underneath. Kids can then scoop it into a paper cup and add flavoring.
According to Cra-Z-Art, the current set is recommended for children ages six and older. It does not require batteries.
The machine is based on the classic Snoopy Sno-Cone Maker that was first introduced in 1979. That helps explain why so many parents and grandparents recognize it.
Snoopy Snow Cone Machine at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Cra-Z-Art |
| Recommended age | Ages 6 and older |
| Power | Hand crank |
| Batteries needed | No |
| Ice type | Ice frozen in the included molds |
| Flavor included | Fruit punch drink mix |
| Best use | Small homemade frozen treats |
| Adult help needed | Recommended |
| Typical price range | Around $20 to $25, although prices may change |
What Comes in the Box?
The exact contents may vary slightly depending on the version and retailer. The current manufacturer listing includes:
- One Snoopy snow cone machine
- One ice-shaving cup
- Three paper cups
- Two ice molds
- One syrup bottle
- One small shovel scoop
- One flavor drink mix packet
- Instructions
The current version also includes a padded clamp that helps hold the machine in place while the handle is being turned.
I like that the basic accessories are included. Your child can try the machine without needing to buy a separate starter kit.
However, the flavor packet and paper cups will not last long. Families planning to use the machine more than once will need extra syrup, drink mix, cups, or reusable bowls.
How Does the Snoopy Snow Cone Machine Work?
The Snoopy machine is fairly simple, but you need to prepare the ice ahead of time.
Step 1: Freeze the Ice
Fill the included molds with water and place them in the freezer.
The molds create ice pieces shaped to fit inside the machine. You cannot decide to make snow cones at the last second unless you already have the ice prepared.
For the best experience, freeze the molds the night before.
Step 2: Place the Ice in the Doghouse
Remove one frozen ice piece from the mold and place it into the machine.
The ice must be positioned correctly. Some versions instruct users to place the ice with the X-shaped side facing upward.
Step 3: Lock Snoopy Into Place
Place the Snoopy ice pusher on top and turn it until it locks into position.
This pushes the ice toward the shaving area.
Step 4: Turn the Handle
Turn the handle to shave the ice.
This is where kids may need help. The handle takes effort to turn, especially when the ice is very hard.
The Toy Insider notes that making enough shaved ice takes time and that families should be prepared for the amount of cranking required.
Step 5: Add the Flavor
Scoop the shaved ice into a cup and add the prepared flavoring.
The included fruit punch mix can be mixed with water and poured into the small squeeze bottle.
You can also use other snow cone syrups, juice, lemonade, or a homemade fruit mixture.
What We Like About the Snoopy Snow Cone Machine
It Is a Fun Activity for Kids
The biggest reason to buy this machine is not because it makes amazing snow cones.
You buy it because making the snow cone is part of the fun.
Kids get to freeze the ice, turn the handle, scoop the shaved ice, and add their own flavor. It gives them something to do instead of simply opening the freezer and grabbing a popsicle.
It can also encourage children to take turns when making treats with siblings or friends.
It Does Not Need Batteries
The Snoopy Snow Cone Machine is completely manual.
There are no batteries to replace, cords to plug in, or buttons to figure out. Kids power the machine by turning the handle.
That also makes it easier to use outside on a patio or picnic table.
The Snoopy Design Is Adorable
Let’s be honest. The Snoopy design is a big part of the reason people buy this machine.
Snoopy sits on top of his red doghouse while Woodstock appears on the syrup bottle. The design looks cute sitting on a kitchen counter and makes the activity feel more special.
It can be especially appealing to families who collect Snoopy or Peanuts products.
It Can Be Used With Different Flavors
The included flavor packet is enough to get started, but you are not limited to that flavor.
You can purchase snow cone syrup separately or create your own flavors with juice and drink mixes.
Parents can also control how much syrup is added. That is helpful if you want to avoid turning each snow cone into a cup of pure sugar with a spoon in it.
It Is an Affordable Gift
The Snoopy Snow Cone Machine is usually less expensive than a full-size electric ice shaver.
It could make a fun birthday gift, Christmas present, summer gift, or surprise for a Snoopy fan.
The activity also gives parents and children something they can do together.
What Could Be Better?
It Takes Time to Make Each Snow Cone
This is not a fast machine.
You shave one piece of ice at a time, and the handle must be turned by hand. Making enough shaved ice for several children could take a while.
That is why I see this as a family activity rather than a party appliance.
For a family with one or two children, the slower process may be part of the fun. For a backyard full of hungry kids, it could become a test of everyone’s patience.
The Handle Can Be Hard for Younger Children
The manufacturer recommends the machine for children ages six and older, but that does not mean every six-year-old will be able to use it alone.
Very hard ice can make the handle difficult to turn.
An adult may need to hold the machine steady or help with the cranking. The padded clamp on the newer version should improve stability, but adult supervision is still a good idea.
The Servings Are Small
The machine creates kid-sized servings.
That may be perfect for a small treat, but it will not produce large snow cones quickly.
Families looking for carnival-sized snow cones may be disappointed.
You Must Prepare Special Ice
The included molds need to be filled and frozen before using the machine.
This requires more planning than a machine that accepts ordinary ice cubes directly from the freezer.
You may want to keep the molds filled during the summer so they are ready when your kids ask for a snow cone.
The Included Supplies Run Out Quickly
The set includes only three paper cups and one packet of flavor mix.
Those supplies are enough for the first use, but you will need replacements.
Reusable cups are probably the easiest solution. You can also purchase snow cone syrup or use juice you already have at home.
Is the Snoopy Snow Cone Machine Easy to Clean?
Cleaning the machine should be done soon after each use.
Melted ice and sticky syrup can make a mess when they are left sitting around.
Remove the washable pieces and rinse away any leftover ice. Use warm water and mild dish soap on the parts allowed by the included instructions.
Be careful around the shaving area. Adults should handle any cleaning near the blade.
The flavor bottle and scoop should also be rinsed after every use. Syrup becomes very sticky when it dries.
One helpful trick is to place the machine on a tray or towel while using it. Melting ice has a sneaky way of getting everywhere.
Is the Snoopy Snow Cone Machine Safe for Kids?
The machine is recommended for children ages six and older, but adult supervision is important.
The Toy Insider advises families to keep fingers away from the ice shaver. It also recommends being careful with the spring-loaded top while placing and locking Snoopy onto the machine.
Parents should help with:
- Assembling the machine
- Securing it to the table
- Loading the ice
- Handling any parts near the blade
- Cleaning the shaving area
- Helping when the handle becomes difficult to turn
Children should never place their fingers inside the ice chute.
Used properly and with adult help, the machine can be an enjoyable family activity.
Who Should Buy the Snoopy Snow Cone Machine?
This machine may be a good choice for:
- Families with children ages six and older
- Children who enjoy helping in the kitchen
- Snoopy and Peanuts fans
- Parents looking for a simple summer activity
- Grandparents shopping for a nostalgic gift
- Families who enjoy making treats together
- Anyone looking for a lower-priced alternative to an electric machine
It could also be fun for a Snoopy-themed birthday party, as long as an adult makes some of the snow cones ahead of time.
Who Should Skip It?
You may want to choose another machine if:
- You need to make many snow cones quickly
- Your child becomes frustrated with hand-crank toys
- You do not want to freeze special ice molds
- You want very soft, professional-style shaved ice
- You are looking for an appliance children can use completely alone
- You plan to serve large groups regularly
An electric snow cone maker may be a better choice for frequent parties or large families.
Is It a Toy or a Real Snow Cone Machine?
The Snoopy Snow Cone Machine is both, but it leans more toward being a toy.
Yes, it shaves real ice and makes an edible frozen treat.
However, its main purpose is to give children a fun hands-on experience. It is not designed to compete with a powerful electric ice shaver.
That does not make it a bad product. It just means families should buy it with the right expectations.
Think of the snow cone as the reward at the end of the activity.
Tips for Getting Better Results
Here are a few ways to make the experience easier:
Freeze Several Ice Molds
Keep extra pieces of molded ice ready before beginning.
One piece may not create as much shaved ice as your child expects.
Let the Ice Sit Briefly
Rock-hard ice can be harder to shave.
Letting the molded ice sit at room temperature for a minute may make cranking easier. Do not let it melt too much.
Secure the Machine
Use the included clamp when possible and place the machine on a sturdy surface.
A towel underneath can help collect melting water.
Have an Adult Start the Crank
The first few turns may be the hardest.
An adult can get the ice started before letting the child continue.
Use Reusable Cups
The three included paper cups will be gone quickly.
Small reusable bowls or cups work just as well and create less waste.
Try Different Flavors
Fruit punch is included, but you can also try:
- Cherry syrup
- Blue raspberry syrup
- Lemonade
- Apple juice
- Grape juice
- Fruit punch
- Sugar-free drink mixes
You could even let each child create a different flavor.
Snoopy Snow Cone Machine Pros and Cons
Pros
- Cute and recognizable Snoopy design
- No batteries or electricity needed
- Encourages hands-on family time
- Includes basic starter accessories
- Can be used with different flavors
- Affordable compared with many electric machines
- Fun gift for Snoopy fans
- Small enough to store easily
Cons
- Requires special ice molds
- Ice must be prepared in advance
- Hand crank may be difficult for younger kids
- Produces small servings
- Slow for groups or parties
- Adult help is recommended
- Included cups and flavoring run out quickly
- Does not produce restaurant-quality shaved ice
Final Verdict: Is the Snoopy Snow Cone Machine Worth It for Families?
The Snoopy Snow Cone Machine is worth considering when you view it as a toy and family activity.
It is not the fastest way to make snow cones. It will not shave a huge pile of ice in a few seconds, and children may need help turning the handle.
However, the slower process is also part of its charm.
Kids get to make the treat themselves. They can turn the handle, scoop the ice, pick a flavor, and proudly serve what they created.
The Snoopy design adds plenty of personality, especially for parents and grandparents who remember the original machine.
For a reasonable price, it can provide a fun afternoon activity and a tasty reward at the end.
Just do not buy it expecting the neighborhood snow cone truck to go out of business.
Our recommendation: A fun choice for Snoopy fans and small families, but not the best option for quickly making snow cones for a crowd.
Interested in getting the Snoopy Sno-Cone Machine for your family?
Click below to check the latest price and availability on Amazon.
[Check the Snoopy Sno-Cone Machine on Amazon]
Frequently Asked Questions
What age is the Snoopy Snow Cone Machine for?
Cra-Z-Art recommends the Snoopy Snow Cone Machine for children ages six and older. Adult help and supervision are still recommended.
Does the Snoopy Snow Cone Machine need batteries?
No. The machine is powered by turning the hand crank.
Can you use regular ice cubes?
The current set includes custom ice molds designed to create ice that fits the machine. For the easiest results, use the included molds and follow the instructions that come with your version.
Does it come with snow cone syrup?
The set includes a flavor drink mix and a small squeeze bottle. You will need to mix the flavoring with water before using it.
Additional syrup and refill flavor packs can be purchased separately.
How many snow cones can it make?
It makes one small serving at a time. The total number depends on the amount of ice you prepare and the size of the cups you use.
Can younger children use it?
Younger children may enjoy scooping the ice or adding flavor, but the machine is recommended for ages six and older. Adults should handle loading, difficult cranking, and cleaning near the blade.
Is it good for birthday parties?
It can be fun at a small Snoopy-themed party, but it is too slow for quickly serving a large group. Prepare plenty of molded ice and expect an adult to help.
Is the Snoopy Snow Cone Machine only for summer?
No. It can be used at any time of year. It could be a fun indoor activity during birthday parties, sleepovers, school breaks, or family movie nights.
A Fun Way to Make Summer Memories
The Snoopy Sno-Cone Machine is not only about making a frozen treat. It gives kids something fun to do while spending time with their parents, grandparents, or siblings.
My brothers and I enjoyed using ours during the hot summer months, and those simple moments became great childhood memories. The newer version gives families a chance to enjoy that same kind of fun today.
The snow cones may be small, and turning the handle may take a little patience, but making them together is what makes the experience special.
