Hot Caramel Sundae

A Hot Caramel Sundae is a classic American dessert featuring a scoop of vanilla ice cream topped with warm, gooey caramel sauce, often garnished with whipped cream, a cherry, and sometimes nuts or a wafer. It's a staple at ice cream parlors and fast-food chains, offering a delightful contrast between the cold ice cream and the heated topping.

🍳 View the full Hot Caramel Sundae recipe →

🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

This dessert is high in fat and carbohydrates, with a single serving typically containing 300-500 calories. It provides a quick energy boost from sugars and some calcium from the dairy, but is best enjoyed as an occasional treat.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	380 kcal
Protein	6 g
Carbs	62 g
Fat	14 g
Fiber	1 g
Sugar	48 g
Sodium	180 mg
Calcium	150 mg
Iron	0.5 mg
Potassium	350 mg
Vitamin A	120 mcg RAE
Vitamin C	2 mg
Vitamin D	1.5 mcg
Phosphorus	140 mg
Magnesium	30 mg

Per 1 sundae (approx. 240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

The sundae's origins are tied to early 20th-century American laws that restricted the sale of soda on Sundays, leading to the creation of ice cream sundaes as a legal alternative. The hot caramel version specifically highlights the appeal of temperature contrast, a technique used to enhance sensory pleasure in desserts.