Shark Tank Crispy Cones Update | Shark Tank Season 14
Dessert lovers always crave something unique, and Crispy Cones delivers just that.
This innovative ice cream cone business, founded by Jeremy and Kaitlyn Carlson, offers a rotisserie-grilled dough cone filled with spreads, soft-serve ice cream, and gourmet toppings.
The Carlsons pitched Crispy Cones on Shark Tank Season 14, seeking $200,000 for 10% equity to expand their business.
After impressing the Sharks with their product and growth potential, they secured a deal with Barbara Corcoran for $200,000 in exchange for 20% equity.
Since Shark Tank, Crispy Cones has experienced rapid growth, expanding to seven locations, surpassing $1 million in annual revenue, and selling 27 franchise units.
This update will discuss their Shark Tank pitch, the Sharks’ responses, and the company’s remarkable post-show expansion.
Crispy Cones: Shark Tank Pitch Recap
- Entrepreneurs: Jeremy and Kaitlyn Carlson
- Business Model: Soft-serve ice cream in freshly grilled dough cones
- Investment Ask: $200,000 for 10% equity
- Product Highlights:
- Rotisserie-grilled dough cones for a unique texture
- Coated with cinnamon, sugar, or crushed Oreos
- Filled with spreads like Nutella or peanut butter
- Topped with gourmet soft-serve ice cream, fruits, and more
- Customizable flavors for a fun and interactive dessert experience
- Sales Before Shark Tank:
- 2018: $20,000
- 2019: $70,000
- 2020: $80,000
- 2021: $200,000
- 2022: $500,000
- Final Outcome: $200,000 for 20% equity with Barbara Corcoran
How Crispy Cones Works
- Fresh dough is grilled on a rotisserie to create a crispy yet soft texture.
- For extra flavor, the cone is coated with sugar, Oreos, or cinnamon.
- Customers choose a filling, such as Nutella or peanut butter.
- Soft-serve ice cream and gourmet toppings like fresh fruit or chocolate are added.
This interactive, made-to-order experience sets Crispy Cones apart from traditional ice cream shops.
Shark Tank: Sharks’ Responses & Deal Breakdown
The Sharks were intrigued by Crispy Cones’ innovative approach, but not all were ready to invest.
| Shark | Offer | Reason for Investment or Rejection |
| Kevin O’Leary | No offer | Didn’t see the potential for high returns. |
| Mark Cuban | No offer | Uncertain about the scalability of the business. |
| Robert Herjavec | No offer | Loved the product but didn’t believe it could go viral. |
| Lori Greiner | No offer | Thought the business was too niche for mass-market success. |
| Barbara Corcoran | $200,000 for 20% equity | Saw the potential in franchising and brand growth. |
| Final Outcome | Jeremy and Kaitlyn accepted Barbara’s offer. |
Barbara was the only Shark to make an offer, believing in the brand’s uniqueness and franchising potential.
After attempting to negotiate a lower equity percentage, the Carlsons ultimately accepted her deal.
Crispy Cones Update: Post-Shark Tank Growth
Since its Shark Tank appearance, Crispy Cones has rapidly expanded, opening new locations and growing its brand across multiple states.
Sales and Revenue Growth
| Year | Sales & Revenue |
| 2021 | $200,000 in revenue |
| 2022 | $500,000 in revenue |
| 2023 | $1 million+ in annual revenue |
| 2024 (Projected) | Significant franchise-driven growth |
The company’s focus on franchising and strategic expansion has helped it scale quickly, far exceeding its pre-Shark Tank revenue.
Retail Expansion & Franchise Growth
| Location | Status |
| Idaho & Utah | First storefronts launched |
| Provo, Utah | A new store opened post-Shark Tank |
| Chandler, Arizona | Expanded into a new market |
| Gilbert, Arizona | Seventh store opened |
| Greenville, South Carolina (2025) | Planned future location |
| Franchise Units Sold | 27, with plans for 100 more in 2024 |
Crispy Cones partnered with Sysco, a food distribution giant, to support its aggressive expansion, ensuring consistency and quality across all locations.
New Product Launches & Strategic Partnerships
Since Shark Tank, Crispy Cones has:
- Expanded its franchise model to bring locations to more states.
- Partnered with Sysco to streamline supply chain logistics.
- Launched new store locations in key markets.
- Maintained strong brand recognition through social media and word-of-mouth marketing.
With 100+ planned franchise units, the company is well on its way to becoming a national dessert brand.
Key Factors Behind Crispy Cones’ Success
Several factors have contributed to Crispy Cones’ rapid growth:
- Shark Tank Exposure – Boosted brand visibility and credibility.
- Barbara Corcoran’s Investment – Helped with franchising and business expansion.
- Unique Product & Experience – A one-of-a-kind dessert concept in the U.S. market.
- Franchising Model – Selling 27 franchise units with plans for 100 more.
- Strategic Partnerships – Partnering with Sysco for distribution.
- Social Media Buzz – Customers love sharing their customizable dessert creations online.
Despite its success, Crispy Cones faces challenges, including managing rapid expansion and maintaining quality across franchises.
However, the brand is well-positioned for long-term success with Barbara’s mentorship and a growing customer base.
Final Thoughts: The Future of Crispy Cones
Crispy Cones has proven to be more than just a trendy dessert—it’s a fast-growing, franchise-driven business with massive potential.
With new store openings, over $1 million in annual revenue, and a strong franchise network, Crispy Cones is well on its way to becoming a national dessert sensation.
Crispy Cones is a must-visit for dessert lovers looking for a fresh, customizable, and Instagram-worthy treat!
Want to try Crispy Cones? Find a location near you or explore franchise opportunities on their official website!
What do you think about Crispy Cones’ journey? Would you visit a location near you? Let us know in the comments!
