Caramel Sundae Recipe
American · Dessert · 20 min total
A classic ice cream sundae featuring rich, homemade caramel sauce, vanilla ice cream, and whipped cream. This easy recipe lets you create a decadent dessert in minutes.
10
min prep
min prep
10
min cook
min cook
4
servings
servings
680
kcal/serving
kcal/serving
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 pint vanilla ice cream
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (for whipped cream)
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Make the caramel sauce: In a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan, heat sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon. Sugar will clump and then melt into a deep amber liquid. Once fully melted, immediately add butter and whisk until melted and combined.
- Slowly pour in heavy cream while whisking constantly. The mixture will bubble up. Continue whisking until smooth, about 1 minute. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and salt. Let cool slightly.
- Make the whipped cream: In a chilled bowl, beat heavy cream and powdered sugar with an electric mixer until soft peaks form.
- Assemble sundaes: Place two scoops of vanilla ice cream in each serving bowl or glass. Drizzle generously with warm caramel sauce. Top with a dollop of whipped cream and sprinkle with nuts if using. Serve immediately.
Tips
- Store leftover caramel sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Reheat gently before using.
- For a salted caramel version, use flaky sea salt sprinkled on top.
- Substitute chocolate or coffee ice cream for a different flavor.
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