A Brownie Sundae is the kind of dessert I turn to when I want something ultra-satisfying. It’s warm, cold, rich, creamy, and completely indulgent all at once. The moment that fudgy brownie meets a melty scoop of ice cream and gets drenched in hot fudge, it’s dessert magic. This is one of those sweet treats that feels both nostalgic and luxurious—like the perfect blend of a childhood favorite and a grown-up indulgence.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Warm meets cold—fudgy brownies with creamy ice cream
- Easy to assemble, especially with store-bought components
- Totally customizable with your favorite toppings
- Perfect for dinner parties or casual weeknight treats
- It’s nostalgic comfort food that never goes out of style
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 4 fudgy brownies (homemade or store-bought)
- 4 cups vanilla or chocolate ice cream
- 1 cup hot fudge sauce
- Whipped cream
- Chopped nuts (optional)
- Chocolate shavings or sprinkles (optional)
Directions
Step 1: Plate the Brownies
I start by cutting the brownies into squares and placing one in each serving bowl or sundae glass. If I’m using homemade brownies, I warm them slightly to get that gooey texture just right.
Step 2: Add Ice Cream
Next, I scoop about 1 cup of ice cream right on top of each brownie. Vanilla is my go-to, but chocolate or even cookie dough works wonderfully.
Step 3: Drizzle with Hot Fudge
I warm the fudge sauce until it’s smooth and pourable, then generously drizzle it over the ice cream. It starts melting into the brownie, and that’s when it gets really good.
Step 4: Finish with Toppings
To finish, I add a swirl of whipped cream, a sprinkle of chopped nuts or chocolate shavings, and of course, a cherry on top if I’m feeling classic.
Step 5: Serve Immediately
This dessert is all about contrasts—so I serve it right away while the brownie is warm and the ice cream is still firm.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Total time: 10 minutes
Variations
- Mint Chocolate Sundae: Use mint chocolate chip ice cream and drizzle with mint syrup.
- Peanut Butter Brownie Sundae: Add a spoonful of warm peanut butter or peanut butter sauce.
- Salted Caramel Twist: Replace hot fudge with caramel sauce and sprinkle with sea salt.
- Fruit Fusion: Top with sliced strawberries or raspberries for a fresh bite.
Storage/Reheating
- Brownies: Store extra brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for 5 days.
- Hot Fudge Sauce: Keep it in the fridge for up to 1 week and reheat in short intervals in the microwave.
- Assembly: This dish is best assembled right before serving.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought brownies for this recipe?
Yes, I often use store-bought brownies when I want to save time. Just make sure they’re dense and fudgy for the best results.
What’s the best ice cream flavor for a brownie sundae?
Vanilla is classic, but I also love pairing it with coffee, mint, or chocolate chip for a twist.
How do I keep the brownie warm without melting the ice cream?
I warm the brownie separately and only add the ice cream right before serving.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely. Just use gluten-free brownies, and you’re good to go.
What are some nut-free topping options?
I like using sprinkles, crushed cookies, or mini marshmallows instead of nuts.
Conclusion
There’s something so comforting about a Brownie Sundae—it’s simple, nostalgic, and downright indulgent. I love how easy it is to put together, especially when I need a quick dessert that still feels special. Whether I’m ending a fancy dinner or just treating myself after a long day, this sundae always hits the spot. Warm brownie, melty ice cream, and all the toppings I can pile on—it’s everything I want in a dessert and more.
PrintBrownie Sundae
This classic Brownie Sundae is the ultimate indulgent dessert with warm fudgy brownies, cold creamy ice cream, and rich hot fudge sauce. Easy to assemble and endlessly customizable, it’s the perfect treat for dinner parties, weeknight cravings, or nostalgic comfort food moments.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake / Assembly
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 4 fudgy brownies (store-bought or homemade)
- 4 cups vanilla or chocolate ice cream
- 1 cup hot fudge sauce
- Whipped cream
- Chopped nuts (optional)
- Chocolate shavings or sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
- Place one brownie in each bowl or sundae glass. Warm if desired.
- Top each brownie with a generous scoop of ice cream.
- Warm the hot fudge sauce and drizzle it over the ice cream.
- Garnish with whipped cream, nuts, sprinkles, or chocolate shavings.
- Enjoy while the brownie is warm and the ice cream cold.
Notes
- Warm brownies just before assembling for the best contrast.
- Vanilla ice cream is classic, but try chocolate, coffee, or mint for variety.
- Add a cherry on top for a diner-style finish.
- Great use for leftover brownies!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sundae
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 38g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 85mg