Shaved ice is a delicious, sweet treat often seen in the summer months, but can be enjoyed year-round. But there are a few different names for it, including shave ice or even Hawaiian shaved ice. You may even be more familiar with snow cones, which is something else entirely.

We’ll get into the nitty-gritty of all this terminology, so you can understand what you’re actually ordering once and for all.

Location

The only difference between Hawaii shaved ice (also called Hawaiian Ice) and shaved ice is where it’s located. Because it originated in Hawaii, when you’re on the mainland it’s usually referred to as “Hawaiian shaved ice” to further distinguish it from a snow cone. If you go to Hawaii and want the dessert, it will just be called shaved ice.

Because it’s so popular now in the US, some restaurants just call Hawaiian shaved ice simply “shaved ice.” However, there are other shaved ice varieties that have distinct flavor combinations! For example, Korean shaved ice (called bingsu) usually contains condensed milk and flavors including red bean, honeydew, or mango. So, if you see shaved ice on the menu and you’re not in Hawaii, ask what variety of shaved ice it is!

Snow Cones vs. Shaved Ice

Contrary to popular belief, Hawaiian shaved ice and snow cones are two distinct treats. In a snow cone, regular ice cubes are crushed into small chunks. You can use a snow cone machine or even the crushed ice setting on your fridge. Then, you place the ice into a cone and pour flavored syrup over it. While these can still be refreshing, the flavor doesn’t stick to the ice well. So, you’ll typically find a pool of syrup at the bottom of the cone.

Hawaiian shaved ice is completely different. To make shaved ice, you have to freeze special blocks at least 24 hours in advance. Then, you must use an ice shaver that thinly slices the ice to create an airy, soft texture. There’s no way you can create a texture like this without an ice shaver. Then, pour your favorite syrup and add toppings. Unlike a snow cone, the flavor gets trapped in the ice because it’s more densely packed, making for a creamy, flavorful treat.

Hawaiian Shaved Ice Flavors for February

Now that you know the difference, you can pick out the best shaved ice machine and flavors for your family. With February and Valentine’s Day coming up, pick flavors that would be good for a class Valentine’s Day party. Or, for a fun date idea, you can make some delicious shaved ice!

Real Hawaiian Ice makes flavors that are ready to pour, so you don’t have to worry about mixing a concentrate. Make a cute pink and red treat with flavors including:

• Cherry Jubilee
• Kiwi Strawberry
• Tiger’s Blood
• Cotton Candy

If you’ve got a sweetheart who can’t get enough sour candy, then be sure to get some sour liquid. Pour or spray a little bit of this into any shaved ice serving to make any flavor a sour one.

Sugar-Free Shaved Ice

For any children suffering from an illness that prevents them from eating sugar, seeing their friends eat a sweet treat they can’t enjoy can be disappointing. Luckily, they don’t have to experience that when it comes to Hawaiian shaved ice. Real Hawaiian Ice sells two ready-to-use sugar-free flavors, Cherry Jubilee and Blue Raspberry. This ensures that everyone in the family can join in on the fun, no matter their dietary restrictions.

Buy A Hawaiian Shaved Ice Machine Today

While snow cones aren’t bad, there’s nothing that beats the airy, light texture of Hawaiian Shaved Ice. If you’re looking for a fun treat for your family and friends that can be enjoyed year-round, take a look at Real Hawaiian Ice’s large selection of Hatsuyuki ice shavers. Buy one for your family today!