Ice Cream Sundae Cupcakes

Ice Cream Sundae Cupcakes are the ultimate mashup of two favorite desserts—cupcakes and sundaes. With a moist cake base, a scoop of creamy ice cream, and all your favorite sundae toppings, these treats are as fun to make as they are to eat. Perfect for summer parties, birthdays, or any time you’re craving something playful and indulgent.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cupcakes bring the joy of an ice cream sundae into a portable, handheld form. They’re easy to customize with your favorite ice cream flavors and toppings, making them perfect for kids and adults alike. Plus, they’re make-ahead friendly and super fun to decorate. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want a creative dessert, these cupcakes will steal the show.

ingredients

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

For the cupcake base:

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Unsalted butter (softened)
• Granulated sugar
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• Milk

For assembly:

• Ice cream (your choice of flavor)
• Whipped cream (store-bought or homemade)
• Maraschino cherries
• Chocolate syrup or hot fudge
• Sprinkles
• Optional: chopped nuts, crushed cookies, caramel sauce

directions

1. Bake the cupcakes:
   Preheat oven to 350°F and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
   Cream butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add eggs and vanilla, and mix well.
   In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt.
   Add dry ingredients to the butter mixture alternately with milk until just combined.
   Fill liners ⅔ full and bake for 18–20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool completely.
2. Top with ice cream:
   Once cupcakes are fully cooled, use a spoon or ice cream scoop to place a small scoop of ice cream on each cupcake.
   Immediately place the cupcakes on a tray and freeze until firm (about 1–2 hours).
3. Decorate like sundaes:
   Just before serving, top each cupcake with whipped cream, chocolate syrup, sprinkles, and a cherry. Add any extra toppings you like.

Servings and timing

Prep time: 20 minutes
Bake time: 20 minutes
Freeze time: 1–2 hours
Total time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 12 cupcakes

Variations

• Brownie base: Use brownies instead of cake for a fudgier version.
• Mini cupcakes: Make bite-sized versions for party platters.
• Flavor twist: Match cupcake and ice cream flavors (chocolate cake + mint chip, vanilla cake + strawberry ice cream, etc.).
• Dairy-free: Use plant-based milk, butter, and ice cream alternatives.
• Filled cupcakes: Hollow out the center and add a spoonful of hot fudge or jam before adding ice cream.

storage/reheating

Store assembled cupcakes in the freezer for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Add whipped cream and toppings just before serving.

Reheating is not necessary, but be sure to let cupcakes sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before serving so they’re easier to eat.

FAQs

Can I use boxed cake mix?

Yes! A vanilla or chocolate cake mix works perfectly for a quick shortcut.

Do I have to freeze the cupcakes after adding ice cream?

Yes, freezing helps the ice cream set and makes them easier to serve without melting too quickly.

What’s the best way to serve these?

Serve directly from the freezer with toppings added just before serving to keep the ice cream firm.

Can I make these ahead?

Yes, bake the cupcakes and scoop the ice cream up to 2 days ahead. Decorate just before serving.

Do I need to remove the cupcake liners?

It’s optional, but removing liners before topping with ice cream can make eating easier.

Can I use store-bought cupcakes?

Absolutely—just top with ice cream and decorate.

What’s the best ice cream to use?

Any flavor you love works! Softer textures like vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, or cookies and cream are easiest to scoop.

How long do they last in the freezer?

Up to 3 days for best texture. Beyond that, the cake may start to dry out.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, just substitute with a gluten-free cupcake recipe or mix.

How can I transport them?

Freeze them in a cupcake container or tray, and transport with ice packs or in a cooler to keep them cold.

Conclusion

Ice Cream Sundae Cupcakes are a fun, festive, and endlessly customizable dessert that combines the best of both worlds. With moist cake, creamy ice cream, and all your favorite toppings, they’re sure to be a hit at any gathering. Make them your own with different flavors and decorations, and enjoy a sweet treat that’s guaranteed to impress!

Print