18 Creamy Sundae Recipes with a Sweet Twist

Who says sundaes are just for summer? Whether you’re craving a nostalgic classic or a decadent new twist, these 18 creamy sundae recipes are here to satisfy your sweet tooth year-round. From gooey caramel drizzles to crunchy toppings and boozy surprises, there’s a dreamy dessert for every occasion. Grab a spoon—your next favorite indulgence is just a scoop away!

Classic Vanilla Bean Sundae

Nothing beats the timeless elegance of a vanilla bean sundae—creamy, fragrant, and just sweet enough to feel like a treat without overwhelming the senses.

Ingredients

• 2 cups high-quality vanilla bean ice cream
• 1/4 cup hot fudge sauce, warmed
• 1/4 cup salted caramel sauce
• 1/2 cup whipped cream
• 2 tbsp chopped toasted almonds
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 maraschino cherry (optional)

Instructions

1. Scoop the vanilla bean ice cream into two chilled bowls or sundae glasses.
2. Drizzle 2 tbsp hot fudge sauce and 2 tbsp salted caramel sauce over each serving.
3. Top each sundae with 1/4 cup whipped cream, then sprinkle 1 tbsp chopped toasted almonds over the whipped cream.
4. Add a drizzle of 1/2 tsp vanilla extract to each sundae for an extra aromatic punch.
5. Finish with a maraschino cherry on top, if using.

The real magic here is in the vanilla bean ice cream—its flecked seeds add a subtle depth that pairs perfectly with the rich sauces and crunchy almonds.

Tip: For an extra-decadent touch, warm the sauces just before drizzling—they’ll melt the ice cream slightly for that dreamy soft-serve texture.

Decadent Chocolate Fudge Sundae

This dreamy sundae is pure indulgence—warm fudge sauce meets cold ice cream for a dessert that feels like a hug in a bowl.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup light corn syrup
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 4 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 4 cups vanilla ice cream
• 1/4 cup chopped toasted pecans (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together 1/2 cup heavy cream, 1/4 cup corn syrup, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup cocoa powder, and 1/4 tsp salt. Simmer for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
2. Remove from heat and stir in 4 oz chopped chocolate, 2 tbsp butter, and 1 tsp vanilla until smooth. Let cool slightly (sauce will thicken as it rests).
3. Scoop vanilla ice cream into bowls, drizzle generously with warm fudge sauce, and top with pecans if using. Serve immediately.

The magic here? The fudge sauce firms up just enough on the ice cream to create irresistible ribbons—no runny mess!

Tip: For extra flair, warm the sauce jars in hot water before serving—it stays silky longer.

Strawberry Shortcake Sundae

This dreamy dessert layers fluffy shortcake, juicy strawberries, and creamy vanilla ice cream for a sundae that tastes like summer in a bowl.

Ingredients:

• 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 2 cups store-bought or homemade shortcake cubes (about 1-inch pieces)
• 2 cups vanilla ice cream
• 1/2 cup whipped cream
• 2 tbsp crushed shortbread cookies (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, toss strawberries with 1/4 cup sugar and 1 tsp lemon juice. Let sit at room temperature for 15 minutes until syrupy.
2. Divide shortcake cubes between two serving bowls. Top each with 1 cup vanilla ice cream.
3. Spoon macerated strawberries and their juices over the ice cream. Dollop with 1/4 cup whipped cream per bowl.
4. Sprinkle each sundae with 1 tbsp crushed shortbread cookies for crunch.

The magic here? The shortcake soaks up the strawberry syrup while staying slightly crisp—no soggy layers!

Tip: For extra decadence, warm the shortcake cubes in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes before assembling.

Caramel Pecan Turtle Sundae

This decadent sundae layers creamy vanilla ice cream with rich caramel, crunchy pecans, and a drizzle of chocolate for a dessert that feels like a hug in a bowl.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups high-quality vanilla ice cream
• 1/4 cup caramel sauce, warmed
• 1/4 cup chopped toasted pecans
• 2 tbsp chocolate syrup
• Whipped cream (optional, for topping)
• Maraschino cherry (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Scoop vanilla ice cream into two serving bowls.
2. Drizzle 2 tbsp caramel sauce over each bowl, letting it pool around the ice cream.
3. Sprinkle 2 tbsp chopped pecans over each sundae, pressing some into the ice cream for texture.
4. Finish with 1 tbsp chocolate syrup per bowl, zigzagging it over the top.
5. Add a dollop of whipped cream and a cherry if desired, and serve immediately.

The magic here is in the contrast: warm caramel against cold ice cream, silky sauce with crunchy pecans—every bite is a little adventure.

Tip: Toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes to deepen their flavor before chopping.

Banana Split Sundae with Whipped Cream

This classic dessert gets a little extra love with fluffy homemade whipped cream—because let’s be honest, everything’s better when it’s freshly whipped!

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe bananas, sliced lengthwise
• 3 scoops vanilla ice cream
• 1/4 cup hot fudge sauce, warmed
• 1/4 cup strawberry sauce
• 1/4 cup crushed pineapple, drained
• 2 tbsp chopped walnuts
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tbsp powdered sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 6 maraschino cherries

Instructions:

1. Arrange the banana slices in a long dish or bowl, then place the vanilla ice cream scoops between them.
2. Drizzle the hot fudge sauce and strawberry sauce over the ice cream, then spoon the crushed pineapple on top.
3. Sprinkle the chopped walnuts evenly over the sundae.
4. In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract with a hand mixer until soft peaks form, about 2–3 minutes. Dollop over the sundae.
5. Top with maraschino cherries and serve immediately.

The contrast of warm fudge, cool ice cream, and airy whipped cream makes every bite a mini celebration—no fancy occasion required.

Tip: For extra texture, toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes before chopping.

Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Sundae

This dreamy sundae combines creamy vanilla ice cream with crunchy chocolate cookies for a dessert that’s pure nostalgia in a bowl.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups vanilla ice cream
• 4 chocolate sandwich cookies (like Oreos), crushed
• 1/4 cup hot fudge sauce, warmed
• 1/2 cup whipped cream
• 1 tbsp rainbow sprinkles
• 1 maraschino cherry (optional)

Instructions:

1. Scoop the vanilla ice cream into a chilled sundae glass or bowl.
2. Sprinkle half of the crushed cookies (2 cookies’ worth) over the ice cream.
3. Drizzle 2 tbsp of warm hot fudge sauce over the cookies and ice cream.
4. Top with whipped cream, then sprinkle the remaining crushed cookies and rainbow sprinkles over it.
5. Finish with the final 2 tbsp of hot fudge sauce and a maraschino cherry, if using.

The magic here is in the layers—each bite delivers cold, creamy ice cream, melty fudge, and that satisfying cookie crunch.

Tip: For extra texture, freeze the crushed cookies for 10 minutes before assembling—they’ll stay crisp longer!

Peanut Butter Cup Sundae

This dreamy sundae combines rich chocolate, creamy peanut butter, and a salty-sweet crunch for the ultimate dessert indulgence.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups vanilla ice cream
• 1/4 cup hot fudge sauce, warmed
• 3 tbsp creamy peanut butter
• 1/4 cup crushed peanut butter cups (about 4 mini cups)
• 2 tbsp salted peanuts, roughly chopped
• Whipped cream, for topping

Instructions:

1. Scoop the vanilla ice cream into two serving bowls.
2. Drizzle 2 tbsp of hot fudge sauce over each bowl, letting it pool around the ice cream.
3. Warm the peanut butter in a microwave for 10–15 seconds until slightly runny, then drizzle 1.5 tbsp over each sundae.
4. Sprinkle half of the crushed peanut butter cups and chopped peanuts over each sundae.
5. Finish with a generous swirl of whipped cream and the remaining peanut butter cups.

The magic here is in the layers—warm fudge and peanut butter seep into the ice cream, while the salty peanuts balance the sweetness. It’s like a deconstructed Reese’s in spoonable form!

Tip: For extra texture, swap the peanuts for pretzel pieces or sprinkle flaky sea salt on top.

Hot Fudge Brownie Sundae

This decadent sundae pairs warm, fudgy brownies with velvety hot fudge and a scoop of vanilla ice cream—pure comfort in every bite.

Ingredients:

• 1 box (18.3 oz) fudge brownie mix (plus ingredients listed on the box, typically eggs, oil, and water)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Vanilla ice cream, for serving
• Whipped cream and maraschino cherries, for topping (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Prepare the brownie mix according to package instructions. Bake in an 8×8-inch pan for 25–30 minutes, until a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs. Let cool slightly.
2. Meanwhile, make the hot fudge: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream, chocolate chips, butter, sugar, and salt. Stir constantly until melted and smooth, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
3. Cut the warm brownie into squares. Place a brownie in a bowl, top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and drizzle generously with hot fudge. Finish with whipped cream and a cherry, if desired.

The magic here? The contrast of warm brownie and cold ice cream, all tied together with that glossy, homemade fudge sauce.

Tip: For extra texture, sprinkle crushed peanuts or toffee bits over the sundae before serving.

Salted Caramel Pretzel Sundae

This decadent sundae combines sweet, salty, and crunchy in every bite—perfect for when you need a dessert that feels extra special without the fuss.

Ingredients:

• 1 pint vanilla ice cream
• 1/2 cup salted caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 cup crushed pretzels
• 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
• 1/4 tsp flaky sea salt
• Whipped cream, for serving

Instructions:

1. Scoop the vanilla ice cream into two bowls or sundae glasses.
2. Warm the salted caramel sauce in the microwave for 15–20 seconds until pourable but not hot. Drizzle half (1/4 cup) over the ice cream.
3. Sprinkle the crushed pretzels and mini chocolate chips evenly over the sundaes.
4. Top with the remaining 1/4 cup salted caramel sauce and a pinch of flaky sea salt.
5. Finish with a generous dollop of whipped cream and serve immediately.

The magic here is in the contrast—cool, creamy ice cream against the sticky caramel, crunchy pretzels, and that salty finish. It’s a dessert that keeps you coming back for another spoonful.

Tip: For extra texture, toast the crushed pretzels in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes before assembling.

Mint Chocolate Chip Sundae

Cool, creamy, and packed with chocolatey crunch, this sundae is a nostalgic treat that comes together in minutes.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups vanilla ice cream
• 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup crushed chocolate wafer cookies
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 tsp peppermint extract
• 2 tbsp chocolate syrup
• Whipped cream and maraschino cherries (for topping)

Instructions:

1. In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream and peppermint extract until soft peaks form, about 2 minutes.
2. Divide the vanilla ice cream between two serving glasses. Drizzle each with 1 tbsp chocolate syrup.
3. Sprinkle half the mini chocolate chips and crushed cookies over each sundae.
4. Top with the peppermint whipped cream, extra chocolate chips, and a cherry.

The magic here? The peppermint-infused whipped cream adds a fresh twist without overpowering the classic combo.

Tip: For extra texture, toast the cookie crumbs in a dry skillet for 2 minutes before assembling.

Rainbow Sprinkles Sundae

This playful sundae is pure nostalgia in a bowl—colorful, creamy, and ready in minutes for a sweet pick-me-up.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups vanilla ice cream
• 1/4 cup rainbow sprinkles (jimmies style)
• 1/4 cup hot fudge sauce, warmed
• 1/2 cup whipped cream
• 6 maraschino cherries (with stems)

Instructions:

1. Scoop the vanilla ice cream into two serving bowls.
2. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of hot fudge sauce over each bowl, letting it pool around the ice cream.
3. Top each with 1/4 cup whipped cream, then sprinkle 2 tablespoons of rainbow sprinkles over the whipped cream.
4. Finish with 3 maraschino cherries per sundae, nestled into the whipped cream.

The magic here? The sprinkles stay crunchy against the creamy ice cream, and the hot fudge seeps into the scoops just enough to create pockets of gooey goodness.

Tip: For extra texture, swap half the sprinkles with crushed waffle cone pieces!

Rocky Road Ice Cream Sundae

This indulgent sundae is a chocolate lover’s dream, packed with crunchy nuts, gooey marshmallows, and a rich fudge drizzle—no churn required!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups chocolate ice cream
• 1/4 cup mini marshmallows
• 1/4 cup chopped roasted almonds
• 3 tbsp hot fudge sauce, warmed
• 1/4 cup whipped cream
• 1 tbsp rainbow sprinkles (optional)

Instructions:

1. Scoop the chocolate ice cream into a chilled bowl or sundae glass.
2. Scatter the mini marshmallows and chopped almonds evenly over the ice cream.
3. Drizzle the warm hot fudge sauce (3 tbsp) generously over the top.
4. Finish with a dollop of whipped cream (1/4 cup) and a sprinkle of rainbow sprinkles (1 tbsp), if using.

The magic here? The contrast of warm fudge against cold ice cream and the satisfying crunch of almonds in every bite. It’s a nostalgic treat that feels extra special with minimal effort.

Tip: For a fun twist, toast the marshmallows lightly with a kitchen torch before adding them!

Pineapple Coconut Sundae

This Pineapple Coconut Sundae is a tropical escape in a bowl—creamy, fruity, and just sweet enough to feel like a treat without being overwhelming.

• 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced into small chunks
• 1/2 cup full-fat coconut milk, chilled
• 2 tbsp honey (or maple syrup for vegan)
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup toasted coconut flakes
• 1 scoop vanilla ice cream (or dairy-free alternative)
• 1 tbsp lime zest (optional, for brightness)

1. In a small bowl, toss the pineapple with 1 tbsp honey and let sit for 5 minutes to soften slightly.
2. In another bowl, whisk the coconut milk with 1 tbsp honey and 1/2 tsp vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Layer the sundae: Start with the ice cream, then spoon over the macerated pineapple, drizzle with the coconut milk mixture, and top with toasted coconut flakes and lime zest.

The magic here is in the contrast—juicy pineapple against rich coconut milk, with a crunch from the toasted flakes. It’s dessert and a vacation.

Tip: For extra texture, swap the coconut flakes for crushed graham crackers or add a pinch of chili powder to the pineapple for a subtle kick.

Toasted Marshmallow Sundae

This dreamy sundae combines gooey toasted marshmallows with cool vanilla ice cream for a nostalgic treat that’s ready in minutes.

Ingredients:

• 1 pint vanilla ice cream
• 1 cup mini marshmallows
• 2 tbsp chocolate syrup
• 1/4 cup crushed graham crackers
• 1/2 tsp flaky sea salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat the broiler to high (500°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Spread the mini marshmallows in a single layer on the sheet. Broil for 1–2 minutes, watching closely, until puffed and charred at the edges.
3. Divide the vanilla ice cream between two bowls. Drizzle each with 1 tbsp chocolate syrup.
4. Top with the toasted marshmallows, then sprinkle with crushed graham crackers and 1/4 tsp flaky sea salt per bowl.

The magic here? The warm marshmallows melt slightly into the ice cream, creating a smoky-sweet contrast with the salty graham crunch.

Tip: For extra flair, torch the marshmallows instead of broiling—just keep a close eye to avoid over-charring.

Blueberry Cheesecake Sundae

This dreamy sundae layers creamy cheesecake filling, tart blueberry sauce, and crunchy graham crackers for a dessert that feels fancy but comes together in minutes.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup crushed graham crackers
• Vanilla ice cream, for serving

Instructions:

1. Make the blueberry sauce: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine blueberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until berries burst and sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat and let cool.
2. Whip the cheesecake filling: In a bowl, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract with a hand mixer until smooth. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream to stiff peaks, then gently fold into cream cheese mixture.
3. Assemble: In glasses or bowls, layer vanilla ice cream, cheesecake filling, blueberry sauce, and crushed graham crackers. Repeat layers once more.
4. Serve immediately or chill for up to 30 minutes for firmer texture.

The magic here is how the warm blueberry sauce melts into the cold layers, creating a swirl of flavors in every bite. For an extra touch, drizzle with melted white chocolate or sprinkle with lemon zest.

Tip: Freeze leftover blueberry sauce in an ice cube tray for quick smoothie boosts!

Nutella and Hazelnut Sundae

This dreamy sundae combines rich Nutella, crunchy hazelnuts, and creamy vanilla ice cream for a dessert that feels indulgent yet effortless.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups vanilla ice cream
• 1/4 cup Nutella, warmed slightly
• 2 tbsp chopped toasted hazelnuts
• 1/4 cup whipped cream
• 1 tbsp chocolate shavings (optional)

Instructions:

1. Scoop the vanilla ice cream into a bowl or sundae glass.
2. Drizzle the warmed Nutella (microwave for 10 seconds if too thick) over the ice cream.
3. Sprinkle the chopped toasted hazelnuts evenly on top.
4. Add a dollop of whipped cream and finish with chocolate shavings, if using.

The contrast of warm Nutella against cold ice cream and the crunch of hazelnuts makes every bite irresistible. It’s a no-bake treat that feels fancy but comes together in minutes.

Tip: For extra depth, swap vanilla ice cream for chocolate-hazelnut gelato.

Cherry Garcia Sundae

This dreamy sundae combines rich chocolate, tart cherries, and creamy vanilla ice cream for a dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups high-quality vanilla ice cream
• 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and halved
• 1/4 cup hot fudge sauce, warmed
• 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup chopped toasted almonds
• Whipped cream, for topping
• Maraschino cherries, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Scoop the vanilla ice cream into two bowls or sundae glasses.
2. Scatter the halved cherries evenly over the ice cream.
3. Drizzle 2 tbsp of warm hot fudge sauce over each sundae.
4. Sprinkle 2 tbsp of mini chocolate chips and 2 tbsp of chopped almonds over each.
5. Top with a generous swirl of whipped cream and finish with a maraschino cherry.

The contrast of cold ice cream, gooey fudge, and crunchy almonds makes every bite irresistible. It’s a nostalgic treat with just the right balance of sweet and tart.

Tip: For an extra-decadent twist, swap the hot fudge for cherry-flavored syrup!

Oreo Crunch Sundae

This dreamy sundae layers creamy vanilla ice cream with crunchy Oreo bits and a drizzle of chocolate sauce—because sometimes, you just need a little extra indulgence.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups vanilla ice cream
• 12 Oreo cookies, roughly crushed (about 1 1/2 cups)
• 1/4 cup chocolate sauce, plus extra for drizzling
• 1/2 cup whipped cream
• 1/4 cup rainbow sprinkles

Instructions:

1. Let the vanilla ice cream sit at room temperature for 5 minutes to soften slightly.
2. In a medium bowl, fold the crushed Oreos and 1/4 cup chocolate sauce into the ice cream until just combined (streaks of cookie crumbs are fine!).
3. Scoop the mixture into 4 bowls or glasses. Top each with a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of rainbow sprinkles, and an extra drizzle of chocolate sauce.

The magic here? The Oreos stay wonderfully crisp against the creamy ice cream, giving every bite a satisfying crunch.

Tip: For extra texture, freeze the crushed Oreos for 10 minutes before folding them in—they’ll hold their crunch even longer!

Conclusion

With 18 luscious sundae recipes, there’s a sweet twist for every craving! Whether you’re a classic lover or an adventurous flavor seeker, these creamy treats are sure to delight. Give them a try, then let us know which one’s your favorite in the comments. Don’t forget to share the love—pin this roundup on Pinterest for your next dessert inspiration. Happy scooping!