Favorite Ice Cream Toppings is a treat that many enjoy in many ways. Adding tasty toppings can make it even better. From chocolate syrup and whipped cream to crushed candy bars and nuts, there’s a lot to choose from.
A survey found that 52% like classic toppings like sprinkles and whipped cream. On the other hand, 28% prefer chocolate toppings like hot fudge and chocolate syrup.
Sundaes are a hit with people of all ages. They feature creamy ice cream topped with various delicious toppings. Creating a DIY sundae bar lets everyone make their own special dessert.
There are many toppings to choose from. Some like nuts like walnuts in syrup and peanut butter drizzle. Others prefer fruits like bananas and Welch’s Fruit ‘n Yogurt™ Snacks.
Adding texture to ice cream is important. 33% like mini marshmallows, while 21% choose candy. Salty-sweet options like pretzels and chocolate-covered pretzels are a hit with 16%. Sugar crystals add flair for 9% of people.
Cookie crumbles, popular at McDonald’s, are a favorite for 12% as toppings or mix-ins.
Key Takeaways
- Classic toppings like sprinkles and whipped cream are the most popular among ice cream lovers.
- Chocolate-based toppings, such as hot fudge and chocolate syrup, are favored by over a quarter of respondents.
- Nutty and fruity toppings provide variety and cater to different taste preferences.
- Textural additions like marshmallows, candy, and cookie crumbles add excitement to sundaes.
- Building a DIY sundae bar allows for customization and creativity in crafting the perfect dessert.
Favorite Ice Cream Toppings
4
servings30
minutes40
minutes300
kcal1
hour10
minutesEasy vanilla ice cream using everyday kitchen ingredients.
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Ingredients
2 cups 2 heavy cream
1 cup 1 whole milk
0.75 cup 0.75 granulated sugar
1 tablespoon 1 pure vanilla extract
1 pinch 1 salt
Directions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and whole milk until combined.
- Gradually add the granulated sugar to the cream mixture, and whisk until the sugar is fully dissolved.
- Stir in the pure vanilla extract and a pinch of salt until well mixed.
- Cover the mixture and place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually 20-25 minutes.
- Transfer the churned ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
- For best results, allow the ice cream to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping.
Recipe Video
Nutrition Facts
- Total number of serves: 8
- Calories: 250kcal
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 45mg
- Potassium: 130mg
- Sugar: 19g
- Protein: 3g
- Calcium: 100mg
- Iron: 0.1mg
- Thiamin: 0mg
- Riboflavin: 0.2mg
- Niacin: 0.1mg
- Folate: 5mg
- Biotin: 0.2mg
- Phosphorus: 95mg
- Iodine: 6mg
- Magnesium: 10mg
- Zinc: 0.4mg
- Selenium: 2mg
- Copper: 0mg
- Manganese: 0mg
- Chromium: 0mg
- Molybdenum: 0mg
- Chloride: 0mg
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The Classics: Time-Tested Favorites
When it comes to classic ice cream toppings, some have been favorites for ages. These toppings are loved by many because they taste great and go well with lots of ice cream flavors.
Chocolate Sauce
Chocolate sauce is a top pick, ranking seventh in favorite toppings. It’s creamy and has a deep chocolate taste. It’s perfect with vanilla, strawberry, or mint chocolate chip ice cream. You can choose from thick and fudgy to thin and syrupy, and it’s always a hit.
Whipped Cream
Whipped cream is ninth in the favorite toppings list. It adds a light, airy feel to sundaes or ice cream cones. Its sweetness is just right, not too much. It’s great with fresh fruit or chocolate sauce for a classic taste.
Sprinkles
Rainbow sprinkles are eighth in favorite toppings. They bring color and fun to ice cream. With their variety of colors and shapes, they’re perfect for any theme. They work well with almost any ice cream and can make your dessert look fun.
“Classic ice cream toppings like chocolate sauce, whipped cream, and sprinkles have a timeless appeal that never goes out of style.”
These classic toppings have been loved for years. They’re delicious, versatile, and make ice cream even better. Whether you enjoy them alone or together, chocolate sauce, whipped cream, and sprinkles are favorites for many ice cream fans.
Favorite Ice Cream Toppings Exploring Crunchy Additions

Adding crunchy toppings to ice cream makes it even better. From classic choices to new ideas, these toppings add texture and flavor. Let’s explore some great options to enhance your sundaes.
Chopped Nuts
Chopped nuts add a savory touch to sweet ice cream. You can choose from walnuts, pecans, or peanuts. BBC Good Food says nuts are tasty and good for you, making them a great choice.
Granola
Granola is a healthy crunch option. It’s made from oats, nuts, and dried fruits. It adds texture and nutrients to your ice cream. Try different flavors like honey-almond or coconut-cashew to find your favorite.
Crushed Cookies
Crushed cookies are a favorite for adding crunch. You can use Oreos or chocolate chip cookies. Mixing different cookies creates unique flavors.
“There’s something nostalgic and comforting about crushing your favorite cookies and sprinkling them over a scoop of creamy ice cream. It’s a simple pleasure that never fails to bring a smile to my face.”
Toffee Bits
Toffee bits offer a luxurious crunch. Their buttery, caramel flavor pairs well with ice cream. Sprinkle them over your favorite scoop for a smooth and crunchy mix. Ice Cream Haven says toffee bits remind us of old-fashioned ice cream parlors.
Whether you like nuts, granola, cookies, or toffee, these toppings make ice cream better. Try different combinations to enjoy the textures and flavors they add.
Favorite Ice Cream Toppings Fresh and Fruity Options

Fresh fruit is a great choice for ice cream toppings. It adds natural sweetness and vibrant colors. Fruit is a healthier option compared to richer toppings. Let’s look at some favorite fruity toppings that can make your ice cream better.
Sliced Strawberries
Juicy, ripe strawberries are a classic topping for ice cream. They go well with vanilla or chocolate ice cream. The sweetness of strawberries matches the ice cream’s smoothness, making a great taste combination.
Whether you use fresh or frozen strawberries, they will make your sundae delicious.
Bananas
Bananas are a hit, perfect for banana splits. They work well with many ice cream flavors. Ripe bananas add sweetness and a nice texture to your sundae.
Pineapple
Diced pineapple adds a tropical twist to your sundae. It’s sweet and tangy, great with coconut or rum raisin ice cream. Brands like Dole have canned pineapple chunks for easy topping.
Pineapple’s juicy flavor contrasts well with creamy ice cream, making your sundae refreshing.
“Fresh fruit toppings are a wonderful way to add a touch of naturalness and freshness to your ice cream sundae. They offer a delightful balance to the richness of the ice cream and provide a healthier alternative to some of the more indulgent toppings.”
Fruit toppings, like strawberries, bananas, and pineapple, are great for ice cream. They add natural sweetness and vibrant colors. These toppings are perfect for fruit lovers and those looking for a healthier treat.
Favorite Ice Cream Toppings Unique and Unconventional Toppings

For those who love ice cream and want something new, unique toppings are perfect. They add a twist to your favorite treat, bringing in new flavors and textures. It’s a fun way to try something different.
Bacon Crumbles
Bacon crumbles add a smoky flavor to maple or chocolate ice cream. In a taste test, people loved the mix of bacon and maple syrup. It scored 8/10 from Erica, 7/10 from Todd, and 7/10 from Karen.
The salty bacon bits contrast nicely with the sweet ice cream. It’s a mix that’s both rich and hard to resist.
Cotton Candy
Cotton candy adds a sweet, nostalgic touch to ice cream. It works well with vanilla or strawberry ice cream. As it melts, it creates a fun mix of textures and tastes.
Chili Powder
Chili powder might seem odd on ice cream, but it’s surprisingly good. It adds a spicy kick to chocolate or cinnamon ice cream. Our testers loved chocolate with Aleppo pepper, scoring it 7/10 each.
Other unique toppings to try include crushed wasabi peas. They scored 10/10 from Erica, 9/10 from Todd, and 7/10 from Karen. Wasabi’s spicy taste balances well with ice cream’s sweetness.
“I never thought I’d enjoy savory toppings on my ice cream, but bacon crumbles and chili powder have completely changed my perspective. The contrast of flavors is simply amazing!” – Erica, taste tester
Be bold and try these unique toppings. You might find your new favorite ice cream mix.
Layering It Right: Tips for Perfect Sundaes
Making the ultimate ice cream sundae is an art. It needs a balance of flavors, textures, and looks. Start with a high-quality, creamy ice cream as the base for your perfect ice cream sundaes. Choose from classic vanilla, rich chocolate, or adventurous flavors like salted caramel. The ice cream should be smooth and luxurious.
When it comes to
balancing flavors
, pick toppings that match the ice cream without overpowering it. For example, hot fudge sauce goes well with mint chocolate chip ice cream. Or, try tangy raspberry sauce over vanilla. Don’t be shy to try new combinations, like sea salt on a caramel sundae, for more depth.
The art of
sundae presentation
is key. Start with a sauce drizzle, then add fresh fruit or nuts. Top it off with whipped cream and a maraschino cherry for a classic look. Remember, two scoops, each about two ounces, is the perfect balance.
By
choosing the right base
, balancing flavors, and mastering presentation, you’ll make perfect sundaes. With creativity and detail, you can make this classic dessert stand out. Impress your friends and family with your sundae skills.