When summer hits, cravings for cool, sweet treats are at their peak. This waffle ice cream sundae delivers everything you want in a dessert: crispy warm waffles, creamy scoops of vanilla ice cream, fluffy whipped cream, and a rich chocolate drizzle—all topped with pillowy marshmallows and powdered sugar. If that doesn’t sound like a dream dessert, we don’t know what does.
This indulgent dessert is inspired by classic diner sundaes but taken to a new level with the buttery texture of Belgian waffles. Whether you serve it after a summer BBQ, as a weekend brunch treat, or just to brighten a regular day, the combination of hot and cold, soft and crunchy, is unbeatable.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love It
- 🍦 Hot and cold contrast: Warm waffles + cold ice cream = total flavor bliss
- 🍫 Topped with chocolate, whipped cream, and marshmallows
- 🍽️ Perfect for summer and endlessly customizable
- 🧒 Kid-approved and party-ready
- 🕒 Takes just minutes to assemble with store-bought or homemade waffles
Quick Facts
- Preparation Time: PT15M
- Cooking Time: PT10M (if making waffles from scratch)
- Total Time: PT25M
- Type: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
- Recipe Yield: 2 servings
- Calories: ~450 per serving (varies with toppings)
What You’ll Need
For the Waffle Ice Cream Sundae
- 2 large Belgian-style waffles (homemade or frozen and toasted)
- 4 scoops vanilla ice cream (or your favorite flavor)
- ½ cup mini marshmallows
- ½ cup whipped cream
- 2 tbsp chocolate sauce or melted chocolate
- 1 tsp powdered sugar (for dusting)
Optional Add-Ons
- Caramel sauce
- Crushed nuts (like almonds or pistachios)
- Fresh berries or banana slices
- Shredded coconut
- Cookie crumbles or cereal toppings
Let’s Make It: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Prepare the Waffles
- Toast or warm up your Belgian waffles until they’re golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Place each waffle on a serving plate while still warm.
Step 2: Add the Ice Cream
- Scoop two large scoops of vanilla ice cream and place them gently over the waffle.
- Let the ice cream soften slightly for that perfect melt-in texture.
Step 3: Toppings Galore
- Drizzle chocolate sauce generously over the waffle and ice cream.
- Add mini marshmallows evenly over the top.
- Pipe or spoon whipped cream around the ice cream scoops.
Step 4: Finishing Touches
- Sprinkle with powdered sugar for that “just-served” look.
- Add any extra toppings like nuts, caramel drizzle, or fruit.
- Serve immediately and enjoy every gooey, melty, crunchy bite!
Conclusion
This waffle ice cream sundae is summer dessert magic on a plate. It’s got everything—texture, flavor, temperature contrast, and total visual appeal. It’s a guaranteed hit whether you’re serving it for family brunch, a weekend movie night, or a special summer celebration.
And the best part? You can switch it up however you like. Try chocolate chip waffles, mix in fruity ice cream, or sprinkle on colorful candy bits. It’s your dessert—make it your own.
FAQs
How to make a waffle ice cream sundae without homemade waffles?
Use frozen Belgian waffles! Just toast until crispy and you’re good to go.
Can I use chocolate or strawberry ice cream?
Absolutely. The flavor combos are endless — mix and match to suit your taste!
How do I keep the ice cream from melting too fast?
Chill your serving plates before assembling. It helps slow the melt time, especially on hot summer days.
What else can I drizzle besides chocolate?
Try caramel, strawberry sauce, honey, or even peanut butter drizzle for fun variations.
Can I make it ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh. You can prep the waffles and toppings ahead, but assemble right before eating for the best texture.
Wrapping It Up
If summer had a dessert mascot, this waffle ice cream sundae would be it. It’s warm, cold, soft, crunchy, and just the right amount of indulgent. Whether you’re sharing it with friends or savoring it solo, it’s guaranteed to bring smiles.
💡Save this recipe, give it your own twist, and share your creations with us! Looking for more summer desserts? Browse our collection for more cool, creamy, colorful ideas to beat the heat—one delicious bite at a time.