Homemade Waffle Cup Sundae: A Decadent Dessert Creation
Crisp waffle shells, creamy butter pecan, and warm caramel come together in perfect harmony.
Homemade Waffle Cup Sundae: Crafting the Perfect Indulgence
Imagine biting into a tender, golden waffle cup, filled with velvety butter pecan ice cream, drenched in warm homemade caramel sauce, and finished with your favorite sundae toppings. This homemade waffle cup sundae recipe elevates the classic ice cream treat to a new level, blending nostalgic comfort with fresh, gourmet twists. Follow our detailed guide for every layer and learn tips for mastering each element—from brown butter waffles to spectacular sundae construction.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Texture Variety: Crisp waffle cups offer a buttery base for creamy ice cream.
- Customizable: Swap fillings and toppings to create personal sundaes.
- Homemade Touch: From-scratch components make this dessert a show-stopper at parties or after-dinner treats.
- Creative Presentation: Waffle cups turn an ordinary sundae into an edible masterpiece.
Ingredient Essentials
For best results, source quality ingredients; these make each element truly shine. Below is the complete component breakdown.
Waffle Cup Ingredients
- 3 tbsp salted butter
- 1 whole egg
- 2 egg whites
- 1/2 cup + 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 3 tbsp heavy cream
- 3/4 tsp vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- Nonstick cooking spray
Caramel Sauce Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp cold, cubed butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
Sundae Components
- 2 quarts butter pecan ice cream (or flavor of your choice)
- Toasted pecans
- Flaky sea salt
- Bing cherries (fresh or jarred)
- Whipped cream
Step-by-Step Instructions
Each element of the sundae is carefully constructed, beginning with the preparation of the waffle cups, followed by the caramel sauce, and ending with assembling the sundae.
Preparing the Waffle Cups
- Brown the Butter: Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat, letting it cook and bubble for 3 to 5 minutes until both the foam and the butter underneath is golden brown. Transfer to a heatproof bowl and swirl to stop further browning. Cool to room temperature for about 15 minutes. (This step enhances flavor and richness.)
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the whole egg, egg whites, and sugar until pale and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Combine Batter: Whisk in the cooled brown butter, heavy cream, vanilla extract, flour, cinnamon, and salt until smooth and well mixed.
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat a waffle cone maker (at least 6 inches across). Spray both sides with nonstick cooking spray.
- Cook the Waffle: Place about 2 ½ tablespoons of batter in the waffle maker and close. Cook until golden brown, roughly 2 ½ minutes.
- Shape the Cup: Use a small offset spatula to lift the waffle and drape it immediately over the bottom of an overturned glass. Let cool for about 15 seconds (until barely warm). Gently press and fold the edges against the glass to create a ruffled ‘cup.’ Hold for 15 seconds until set, then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Making the Caramel Sauce
- Combine & Boil: In a medium saucepan, mix the sugar, 2 tablespoons water, and corn syrup. Bring to a boil over medium-low heat.
- Caramelize: Allow mixture to simmer for approx. 7 minutes until golden. Swirl the pan over heat to deepen the color to a rich amber.
- Add Cream: Remove from heat and slowly pour in the heavy cream, whisking carefully as the mixture bubbles vigorously.
- Finish: Whisk in cold cubed butter, vanilla, and salt. Cool for at least 15 minutes before serving.
Assembling the Sundae
- Scoop Ice Cream: In each cooled waffle cup, scoop 2–3 generous scoops of butter pecan ice cream.
- Drizzle Caramel: Pour warm caramel sauce over the ice cream.
- Add Toppings: Finish with toasted pecans, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, a Bing cherry, and a dollop of whipped cream.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy the contrast of crispy cup, cold ice cream, and silky caramel right away.
Tips for Success & Common Substitutions
- No Waffle Cone Maker? Try using a pizzelle maker or a regular waffle iron (with thinner batter and adjusting cooking time).
- Customize Ice Cream: Replace butter pecan with any favorite flavor; classic vanilla or strawberry work beautifully.
- Nut Alternatives: Substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or omit for nut allergies.
- Extra Flavors: Add a dash of cardamom, nutmeg, or orange zest to the waffle batter.
- Homemade Whipped Cream: For a finishing touch, whip heavy cream with a little vanilla and powdered sugar until soft peaks form.
What others are reading
Serving Suggestions & Variations
| Variation | Main Difference | Recommended Toppings |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Sundae | Vanilla ice cream, fudge sauce | Chopped peanuts, maraschino cherries |
| Fruity Sundae | Strawberry ice cream, berry compote | Fresh strawberries, whipped cream |
| Nut Lover’s | Butter pecan ice cream, extra toasted nuts | Pecans, walnuts, almond slivers |
| Chocolate Lover’s | Chocolate ice cream, chocolate sauce | Shaved chocolate, chocolate chips |
| Kid-Friendly | Cookies & cream ice cream | Mini marshmallows, sprinkles |
How to Store Leftovers
- Waffle Cups: Store plain (unfilled) waffle cups in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Avoid refrigeration to prevent softening.
- Caramel Sauce: Refrigerate cooled caramel in a sealed jar for up to 1 week; rewarm in a saucepan or microwave before serving.
- Ice Cream: Keep ice cream frozen until right before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make the waffle cups ahead of time?
Yes, prepare and cool waffle cups up to two days ahead. Store in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them crisp.
What if I don’t have a waffle cone maker?
You can substitute with a pizzelle iron or make thinner rounds in a standard waffle iron. Shape over cups immediately after cooking.
Is there an alternative to corn syrup in the caramel sauce?
You may replace light corn syrup with honey or leave it out if desired, but corn syrup helps prevent crystallization for a smoother caramel.
Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?
Absolutely—homemade caramel is richer, but a quality store-bought caramel offers convenience. Warm before drizzling over ice cream.
What’s the best way to toast pecans?
Spread pecans on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for about 8 minutes, tossing once, until lightly browned and fragrant.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Substitute a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for regular flour in the waffle cup batter.
Expert Tips & Technique Highlights
- Brown Butter Magic: Browning the butter gives the waffle cup a nutty, rich undertone that sets it apart from standard cones.
- Rapid Shaping: Shape cups while the waffle is still warm but not hot—this is key for flexibility without breakage.
- Whisking Eggs & Sugar: Beating until pale and fluffy traps air, resulting in a lighter, crispier waffle cup.
- Even Cooking: Use a uniform tablespoon measure to portion batter for consistent waffle thickness and cup shape.
Hosting a Sundae Party
This recipe is ideal for a personalized sundae bar at gatherings:
- Set out filled waffle cups and assorted toppings for guest customization.
- Prepare and chill caramel and whipped cream in advance for streamlined assembly.
- Offer flavor and dietary options for diverse guest preferences (non-dairy ice cream, nut-free toppings).
Seasonal & Holiday Serving Ideas
- Summer: Use fresh berries, peach slices, or lemon ice cream.
- Fall: Add apple pie ice cream, cinnamon whipped cream, and caramel apples.
- Winter: Top with crushed peppermint candies and chocolate ice cream.
- Spring: Try strawberry ice cream with rhubarb caramel drizzle.
Nutrition Information (Approximate per Sundae)
Values will vary based on specific brands and quantities used.
- Calories: 500–650
- Protein: 7g
- Fat: 30g
- Carbohydrate: 60g
- Sugar: 45g
Conclusion: Elevate Your Dessert Game
Homemade waffle cup sundaes showcase the perfect harmony of crisp, sweet, and creamy. By crafting each layer from scratch, you transform a familiar dessert into a special celebration. Whether for family gatherings, summer parties, or cozy dinners, this recipe offers versatility, flair, and flavor for all ages. Happy scooping!
References
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a43828193/homemade-waffle-cup-sundae-recipe/
- https://forum.spells8.com/t/homemade-waffle-cup-sundae/61873
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hj_2j-pyzPs
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/g36408605/easy-no-bake-desserts/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g41196193/caramel-dessert-recipes/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/a44269365/ice-cream-treats/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/ice-cream/
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