Ice Cream Sundae Cupcakes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ice Cream Sundae Cupcakes are a playful and indulgent dessert that combines the fun of a sundae with the ease of a cupcake. These treats feature a moist cupcake base, a scoop-like topping of frosting to mimic ice cream, and classic sundae toppings like chocolate drizzle, sprinkles, and a cherry on top. Perfect for parties, birthdays, or a summer celebration, they bring joy and nostalgia in every bite.

ingredients

Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

vanilla or chocolate cupcake batter
buttercream or whipped frosting
chocolate syrup or ganache
rainbow sprinkles
maraschino cherries
mini cupcake liners (optional for serving presentation)
ice cream scoop (for shaping frosting)

directions

Bake your cupcakes according to your chosen recipe and let them cool completely.

Using an ice cream scoop, top each cupcake with a generous dollop of frosting to resemble a scoop of ice cream.

Drizzle chocolate syrup or ganache over the frosting to create the look of melted fudge.

Sprinkle with rainbow sprinkles for a fun, colorful touch.

Top each cupcake with a maraschino cherry.

Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 12 cupcakes.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 20-25 minutes
Decorating time: 10 minutes
Total time: 45-50 minutes

Variations

Use strawberry or funfetti cupcakes for a different flavor base.
Swap chocolate syrup with caramel or strawberry sauce.
Add crushed nuts or mini chocolate chips on top for extra texture.
Try using colored frosting to match party themes.
Add a filling inside the cupcakes like fudge or jam for a surprise center.

storage/reheating

Store Ice Cream Sundae Cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Bring to room temperature before serving for best taste.
Frosting may soften at warm temperatures, so keep chilled until just before serving.
Freezing is not recommended due to the toppings and frosting structure.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought cupcakes?

Yes, you can use pre-made cupcakes and just add the sundae-style toppings.

What frosting works best?

Buttercream holds its shape well and is ideal for this look. Whipped frosting can work too but is softer.

How do I make the frosting look like ice cream?

Use a standard ice cream scoop to create rounded mounds that mimic the look of a scoop of ice cream.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, bake the cupcakes in advance and decorate shortly before serving to maintain freshness and structure.

Can I make them gluten-free?

Yes, just use a gluten-free cupcake base and check all toppings for gluten content.

Are these good for kids’ parties?

Absolutely! They’re colorful, fun, and easy to eat—perfect for kids.

Can I add real ice cream?

If serving immediately, you can top with real ice cream, but they’ll need to be eaten quickly to avoid melting.

Can I use different syrups?

Yes, chocolate, caramel, strawberry, or even peanut butter syrup work great.

How do I transport them?

Use a cupcake carrier and refrigerate until just before transporting to help toppings stay in place.

Do I have to use cherries?

Not at all—they’re classic but optional. You can use candies or other toppings instead.

Conclusion

Ice Cream Sundae Cupcakes are a charming and versatile dessert that brings the whimsy of an ice cream parlor to your table in cupcake form. They’re easy to customize, fun to make, and even more fun to eat. Whether you’re celebrating a special day or just craving something sweet, these cupcakes are sure to be a hit.

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