An ice cream concept that started in a small trailer in Idaho and later caught national attention on “Shark Tank” is adding more locations across Utah. Crispy Cones, known for its warm pastry shells and soft-serve pairings, continues to build momentum as new stores open and one long-awaited reopening approaches.
European-Inspired Dessert Arrives in Utah
Crispy Cones has carved out its niche by offering a dessert not commonly found in the U.S. Owner and operator of the Layton shop, Shelly Thorne, describes the cones as a “European experience,” shaped by the original Czech pastry known as a trdelník.
Guests at the Layton store watch fresh dough rotate on a grill until it forms a crisp shell. Warm cones are often filled with fruits like strawberries and bananas. Once the pastry cools, it’s paired with gourmet soft-serve and toppings that shift weekly.
Thorne and her husband, Scott Thorne, lead the Layton operation. They opened their store in October 2024, slightly more than a year after Crispy Cones founders Jeremy and Kaitlyn Carlson appeared on “Shark Tank.” Their pitch secured a deal with investor Barbara Corcoran, helping the brand expand into at least 14 states.
Thorne credits the Carlsons for the pace of growth, noting their consistency and determination. She says the couple “see a very bright future and a lot of potential in this brand,” adding that their commitment carried them through challenges that could have slowed others.
How Crispy Cones Took Shape
The concept traces back to Jeremy Carlson’s mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Prague. The dessert quickly became a favorite of his, and he wanted to introduce it to people at home.
After returning, Carlson began shaping the recipe while studying at Brigham Young University–Idaho. He first sold cones from a tent, then upgraded to a trailer. By May 2020, the first official Crispy Cones storefront opened in Logan.
Thorne says being part of the company is rewarding, especially as these European-style pastries become accessible to more Utah communities. She notes that not everyone has the chance to travel abroad, and the concept offers a taste of something many people may never encounter otherwise.
New Utah Store Openings
Crispy Cones is entering another growth phase with two new Utah openings and one major reopening.
Draper
The newest store opened its doors in Draper on Friday. According to the company, the city appealed to the brand because of its family-focused neighborhoods and growing retail activity. The shop features the full menu along with rotating flavors and toppings. Opening-week promotions are available to early visitors.
West Valley City
Another location is scheduled to open in January. Construction is underway, and Crispy Cones says this store will support its expansion within the Salt Lake Valley. The company views the site as a long-term investment in serving local customers.
Provo
Crispy Cones confirmed that its Provo location will reopen under fresh management. The leadership team plans to foster a community-focused atmosphere with events, student engagement, and ongoing promotions. Early responses from returning and first-time guests show significant anticipation for the relaunch.
Community Impact and Brand Outlook
The brand’s expansion highlights the growing appetite for dessert concepts that go beyond ordinary soft-serve. Each new location draws attention not just for its products, but also for the overall experience—freshly baked dough, aromatic grills, and customizable fillings.
Thorne points out that incorporating European-inspired flavors into everyday Utah dining has sparked curiosity among customers who enjoy unique options without needing to travel.
From humble beginnings in an Idaho tent to gaining “Shark Tank” recognition and multiple Utah stores, Crispy Cones continues its growth with new locations in Draper and West Valley City, along with a refreshed Provo shop—all while maintaining its Czech-inspired roots.
