This homemade ice cream sundae topped with sprinkles, chopped nuts and a maraschino cherry is a timeless summer treat that delights both children and the young at heart.
How do you make ice cream even more indulgent? Build a sundae. Start with a base of vanilla ice cream and chocolate sauce for a classic version, or mix and match your favorite ice cream flavors, sauces and toppings. Don’t forget the cherry on top!
Recipe tips and frequently asked questions
What is an ice cream sundae?
An ice cream sundae is a layered dessert featuring scoops of ice cream dressed with sweet sauces and a variety of toppings such as whipped cream, sprinkles, fruit and nuts. A traditional sundae typically pairs vanilla ice cream with chocolate sauce, whipped cream and a maraschino cherry.
What is the difference between ice cream and an ice cream sundae?
Ice cream alone is simply the frozen confection. A sundae is built from ice cream plus extras — sauces, whipped cream, nuts, sprinkles and other garnishes that add texture and flavor.
Where was the ice cream sundae invented?
The ice cream sundae originated in the United States in the late 1800s and was likely inspired by ice cream sodas. Multiple U.S. towns claim to be the birthplace of the sundae, and the name may have evolved from the day “Sunday,” when these treats were often sold.
What sort of glass should I use?
A fluted sundae glass is traditional, but a tall milkshake glass or any clear vessel works well so you can admire the layers of ice cream, sauce and toppings.
Ideas for ice cream sundaes
Experiment with flavor combinations. Try:
- Banana Split — fresh banana, three scoops of ice cream, sauces and a cherry.
- Chocolate Sundae — chocolate ice cream with hot fudge or chocolate sauce.
- Strawberry Sundae — strawberry ice cream with fresh strawberry compote.
- Caramel Sundae — caramel ice cream with warm caramel sauce and chopped nuts.
- Brownie Sundae — warm brownie pieces topped with ice cream and chocolate sauce.
Ice cream sundae toppings
Choose from a wide array of toppings to create your perfect sundae:
- Hot fudge, caramel or fruit sauces
- Chocolate chips (milk, white or dark)
- Chopped nuts (peanuts, pecans, almonds)
- Whipped cream
- Sprinkles for color and fun
- Wafers or biscuit pieces
- Cookies (Oreos or similar)
- Mini marshmallows
- Candies like M&M’s or Reese’s pieces
- Fresh fruit: cherries, berries, banana slices or pineapple
- Dessert add-ins: brownie chunks, cake pieces or donut slices
- For adults: a splash of liqueur such as rum or Baileys
If your favorite topping isn’t listed, add it and enjoy — the sundae is highly customizable.
For more ice cream ideas, explore collections of ice cream-maker recipes to pair with your sundae creations.
Ingredients
Ice cream: Vanilla is classic, but use any favorite flavor — chocolate, strawberry, caramel or homemade ice cream for extra flair.
Topping: Choose hot fudge, caramel, strawberry sauce or any syrup you enjoy.
Whipped cream: Freshly whipped or store-bought works fine.
Sprinkles: Add color and fun.
Nuts: Chopped peanuts, pecans or candied nuts add crunch.
Wafers: Triangular or cylindrical wafers add texture and presentation.
Maraschino cherries: Sweet preserved cherries for the finishing touch.
How to make an ice cream sundae
See the recipe card below for exact ingredient amounts. These steps make assembly quick and straightforward:
- Optional: Chill your sundae glass in the freezer to slow melting on hot days.
- Prepare your toppings, chop nuts and cut wafers as needed. Keep the ice cream in the freezer until last.
- Drizzle 1–2 tablespoons of your chosen sauce around the inside of the glass.
- Add one scoop of ice cream, spoon more sauce over it, then add a second scoop (or a third if you prefer).
- Top with a generous swirl of whipped cream, then sprinkle chopped nuts and sprinkles.
- Insert wafers for garnish and finish with a maraschino cherry on top.
How to serve
Serve immediately with a long spoon to reach every layer and enjoy before it melts.
How to store
Sundaes are best assembled just before serving. To save time, store individual components separately (ice cream in the freezer, sauces sealed, and dry toppings in airtight containers) and assemble when ready.
Have you made this recipe? Share your experience in the comments and tag your photos on Instagram to show your creations!
Looking for more ice cream dessert recipes?
Try these variations:
- Banana Split
- Chocolate Sundae
- Strawberry Sundae
Follow social channels and recipe collections for more ice cream inspiration and step-by-step ideas.
Recipe
Ice Cream Sundae
A simple, classic sundae topped with whipped cream, sprinkles, nuts and a cherry.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons ice cream topping, syrup or sauce
- 2–3 scoops ice cream
- 1/4 cup whipped cream
- 1/2 tablespoon chopped nuts
- 1 teaspoon sprinkles
- 1–2 ice cream wafers
- 1 maraschino cherry
Instructions
- Optional: pre-chill your glass in the freezer.
- Assemble ingredients, removing the ice cream last.
- Drizzle sauce generously around the inside of the glass.
- Add one scoop of ice cream and spoon more sauce on top.
- Add a second (or third) scoop of ice cream.
- Pipe or spoon whipped cream into a generous swirl.
- Sprinkle chopped nuts and sprinkles over the whipped cream.
- Insert wafers and finish with a maraschino cherry.
Notes
This recipe yields one sundae but is easily scaled up. The classic version uses vanilla ice cream, chocolate sauce, whipped cream and a cherry, but feel free to customize with your preferred flavors and toppings.
Nutrition
Estimated per serving: Calories 590; Carbohydrates 78 g; Protein 8 g; Fat 28 g; Saturated Fat 14 g; Sugar 55 g. Nutritional values are estimates and may vary by brand and ingredients used.
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