Ice cream sundae recipes are one of America's most popular treats and despite the dessert's chilly nature, its origin is hotly contested. There are three versions of the sundae's origin, one from Two Rivers, Wisc., another from Evanston, Ill., and the third from Ithaca, NY. While the claims may be widespread, each story is similar: the dessert was a creation born of necessity, either by special request or because of Sunday restrictions on indulgent treats in the late 1800s. Whoever it was to first splash syrup over a scoop of ice cream and topped it with whipped cream, nuts, and a cherry, was embarking on something that has ice cream connoisseurs across the country raising their spoon.
The Perfect Sundae
There is no wrong way to craft an ice cream sundae recipe, though many aficionados claim to have perfected the dessert. A traditional sundae consists of one or more flavors of ice cream topped with complimentary syrups and garnished with whipped cream, nuts, and a cherry, though there are so many variations that the choices are nearly unlimited.
Basic Steps
- Use a metal ice cream scoop that has been warmed slightly to make scooping easier.
- Chill sundae dishes first to keep the ice cream from prematurely melting.
- Choose a spoon long enough to reach the bottom of the sundae glass.
- Toast nuts to bring out their flavor and provide a crunchier texture.
- Use a variety of ice cream flavors or separate disparate scoops with a bit of vanilla.
- Keep a variety of toppings on hand for innovation: crushed cookies, small candies, sprinkles, nuts, dried fruit, chocolate chips, crumbled candy bars, and the like.
Then, let your guests add topping as they like. The best sundae is one created by the individual who plans to eat it!
Ice cream sundae recipes are a classic summer treat and a great choice for parties, celebrations, or a romantic dessert to share. With an infinite variety of combinations, there are always ways to create the perfect sundae.
