Nothing says pure indulgence like a Vanilla Ice Cream Sundae with Rich Hot Fudge. This timeless dessert delivers the perfect balance of velvety, cold ice cream and warm, gooey chocolate decadence. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering, celebrating a birthday, or simply craving comfort, this sundae promises to satisfy every sweet tooth. Let’s dive into the most luscious and unforgettable sundae experience you’ll ever create.
Ingredients for the Ultimate Sundae
| Component | Ingredients |
|---|---|
| For the Sundae | |
| 3 scoops of vanilla ice cream | |
| 1/2 cup hot fudge sauce | |
| Whipped cream, to taste | |
| 1 maraschino cherry or fresh cherry | |
| For Homemade Hot Fudge | |
| 1/2 cup cocoa powder | |
| 1/2 cup granulated sugar | |
| 1/4 cup brown sugar | |
| 1/2 cup heavy cream | |
| 1/4 cup unsalted butter | |
| 1 tsp vanilla extract | |
| Pinch of salt |
Step-by-Step: How to Make the Best Vanilla Ice Cream Sundae
1. Prepare the Rich Hot Fudge Sauce
The secret to a standout sundae is the homemade hot fudge sauce. It’s thick, glossy, and infused with intense cocoa flavor.
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together the cocoa powder, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt until fully combined.
- Add the heavy cream and unsalted butter.
- Stir constantly over medium heat, allowing the mixture to come to a low simmer.
- Continue stirring for 3–5 minutes until the sauce becomes smooth, thick, and glossy.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Set aside to cool slightly — it should still be warm when served.
Tip: The sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to a week. Just reheat gently before use.
2. Build Your Sundae
Assembling your sundae should be an experience of joy. Here’s how we do it:
- Scoop three generous balls of vanilla ice cream into a tall sundae glass or dessert bowl.
- Pour warm hot fudge sauce over the top, allowing it to cascade down the sides of the ice cream.
- Add a generous swirl of whipped cream.
- Top it all off with a glistening maraschino or fresh cherry.