Sonic Drive-In has some of the best and most reasonably priced ice cream cones, and that is one of the most sought-after indulgences of customers when in need of something quick and creamy. Be it a simple vanilla cone, chocolate-dipped, or upgraded to a waffle cone, knowing the calorie count can make all the difference in your choice.
Ever wondered how many calories a Sonic ice cream cone contains and where it fits within your diet? Well, here is a simplified guide of the various types of cones, in sizes, to put your thoughts into perspective.
How Many Calories Does a Sonic Ice Cream Cone Contain?
A Sonic ice cream cone can range in calories depending on the cone size and type you select. Here is a rough breakdown of the calorie counts.
Sonic Vanilla Ice Cream Cone Calories
Cone Type | Calories | Total Fat (g) | Sugar (g) | Protein (g) |
Small Vanilla Cone | 180-250 | 7-10 | 20-30 | 5-8 |
Regular Vanilla Cone | 250-320 | 10-15 | 30-40 | 6-9 |
Sonic Chocolate-Dipped Cone Calories
Cone Type | Calories | Total Fat (g) | Sugar (g) | Protein (g) |
Chocolate-Dipped Cone | 280-350 | 12-18 | 35-45 | 7-10 |
With the chocolate coating, the calorie count is higher than that of a plain vanilla cone because of the added fat and sugar.
Sonic Waffle Cone Calories (When Available)
Cone Type | Calories | Total Fat (g) | Sugar (g) | Protein (g) |
Waffle Cone | 300-400 | 15-20 | 40-50 | 7-10 |
Waffle cones hold more ice cream and have extra calories from the cone itself.
What Affects the Calorie Count of a Sonic Ice Cream Cone?
There are a few things that affect how many total calories are in your ice cream cone.
Size of the Cone
Larger portions contain more ice cream, which means higher calories, fat, and sugar. The small cone has the lowest calorie count, while the waffle cone contains the most.
Chocolate or Caramel Coating
A chocolate or caramel dip adds extra calories because of the additional sugar and fat contained.
Extra Toppings
- Sprinkles add around 20-50 extra calories.
- Nuts range from about 50-100 calories, depending on how many are used.
- Whipped cream can add an extra 20-40 calories.
How Sonic Ice Cream Cone Calories Stack Up to Other Desserts
Sonic ice cream cones generally have fewer calories than the restaurants’ shakes and Blasts.
Sonic Dessert | Calories (Small Size) |
Vanilla Ice Cream Cone | 180-250 |
Chocolate-Dipped Cone | 280-350 |
Small Shake | 400-550 |
Mini Blast | 350-450 |
Small Sundae | 300-400 |
If you are trying to keep your calorie intake lower, an unadorned vanilla cone is one of the best Sonic desserts to have.
How to Make Your Sonic Ice Cream Cone Healthier
If you want to indulge in a Sonic ice cream cone with fewer calories, here are some simple changes you can make:
- Instead of the regular or waffle cone, go for the small.
- Skip the chocolate or caramel dips for a less fatty and sugary ice cream.
- No candy pieces or cookie crumbles as extra toppings.
- Ask for less ice cream if you like your servings a little lighter.
Is Sonic Ice Cream Gluten-Free?
Sonic’s vanilla soft-serve is gluten-free, but the cones each have gluten. Order your ice cream in a cup instead of getting it in a cone if you have gluten sensitivity.
Is Sonic Ice Cream Dairy-Free?
No, Sonic’s ice cream does contain milk and cream. No options for ice cream are dairy-free, whereas some slushes are.
Why Sonic Ice Cream Cones Are a Popular Choice
The affordable, creamy, and customizable Sonic ice cream cones are many people’s favorites.
Simple and Classic Flavor
Sonic’s soft-serve features real dairy that grants it a silky, smooth, and creamy feel in the mouth.
Budget-Friendly Treat
Similar to bigger ice cream desserts, Sonic cones are inexpensive ways to enjoy a frozen treat.
Perfect for On-the-Go Snacking
Unlike sundaes or shakes, ice cream cones are pretty easy to eat while driving or walking.
Customizable with Toppings
Cones can be personalized with sprinkles, nuts, or a dip of chocolate.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sonic Ice Cream Cone Calories
How many calories are in a small Sonic ice cream cone?
One small vanilla ice cream cone holds about 180-250 calories.
Do the chocolate-dipped cones have more calories?
Of course, these chocolate-dipped cones have more calories, around 280 – 350, because there is added sugar and fat from the chocolate dip.
What is the lowest-calorie Sonic ice cream flavor?
The lowest calorie option will be a small vanilla cone in a cup, without a cone.
Can I make a Sonic ice cream cone lower in calories?
You could order a small size and forgo dips or additional toppings to decrease calories.
Does Sonic have a low-fat or sugar-free ice cream option?
Sonic does not offer low-fat or sugar-free ice cream.