Ice cream is a classic dessert that can be enjoyed on its own, but it’s even more delicious when paired with other sweet and savory treats. Whether you’re looking for a crunchy snack to complement your creamy ice cream or a sweet cake to sandwich your favorite flavor, there are countless options to choose from. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most popular and creative ideas for what to make to eat with ice cream.
Classic Combinations
Some of the most popular treats to enjoy with ice cream are classic combinations that have been around for decades. These include:
- Apple pie and vanilla ice cream: A match made in heaven, the combination of warm apple pie and cold vanilla ice cream is a staple of American desserts.
- Brownies and chocolate ice cream: For chocolate lovers, pairing a rich, fudgy brownie with a scoop of creamy chocolate ice cream is the ultimate indulgence.
These classic combinations are easy to make and require minimal ingredients. Simply bake a pie or brownies according to your favorite recipe, and serve with a scoop of your favorite ice cream.
Cakes and Cupcakes
Cakes and cupcakes are a popular choice to enjoy with ice cream, and can be easily customized to fit your favorite flavors. Some ideas include:
Ice Cream Sandwiches
Ice cream sandwiches are a fun and easy treat to make, and can be customized with your favorite flavors of ice cream and cake. Simply bake a batch of your favorite cookies or cake, and use them to sandwich a scoop of ice cream. Some popular options include:
| Cake | Ice Cream |
|---|---|
| Chocolate cake | Mint chocolate chip ice cream |
| Vanilla cake | Strawberry ice cream |
Ice Cream Cakes
Ice cream cakes are a show-stopping dessert that can be customized to fit any occasion. Simply layer your favorite flavors of ice cream with cake and toppings, and freeze until set. Some popular options include:
| Ice Cream | Cake | Toppings |
|---|---|---|
| Chocolate ice cream | Chocolate cake | Chocolate sauce and whipped cream |
| Vanilla ice cream | Vanilla cake | Strawberries and whipped cream |
Cookies and Wafers
Cookies and wafers are a popular choice to enjoy with ice cream, and can be easily customized to fit your favorite flavors. Some ideas include:
Cookie Sandwiches
Cookie sandwiches are a fun and easy treat to make, and can be customized with your favorite flavors of ice cream and cookies. Simply bake a batch of your favorite cookies, and use them to sandwich a scoop of ice cream. Some popular options include:
| Cookie | Ice Cream |
|---|---|
| Chocolate chip cookies | Cookies and cream ice cream |
| Peanut butter cookies | Peanut butter cup ice cream |
Waffle Cones
Waffle cones are a classic treat that can be enjoyed with ice cream, and can be easily customized to fit your favorite flavors. Simply bake a batch of waffle cones according to your favorite recipe, and fill with your favorite ice cream. Some popular options include:
| Ice Cream | Toppings |
|---|---|
| Vanilla ice cream | Chocolate sauce and whipped cream |
| Strawberry ice cream | Strawberries and whipped cream |
Fruit and Nuts
Fruit and nuts are a healthy and delicious choice to enjoy with ice cream, and can be easily customized to fit your favorite flavors. Some ideas include:
Fruit Parfaits
Fruit parfaits are a healthy and delicious treat that can be enjoyed with ice cream, and can be easily customized to fit your favorite flavors. Simply layer your favorite fruits with ice cream and granola, and serve. Some popular options include:
| Fruit | Ice Cream | Granola |
|---|---|---|
| Strawberries | Vanilla ice cream | Almond granola |
| Blueberries | Blueberry ice cream | Walnut granola |
Candied Nuts
Candied nuts are a delicious and crunchy treat that can be enjoyed with ice cream, and can be easily customized to fit your favorite flavors. Simply bake a batch of your favorite nuts according to your favorite recipe, and serve with ice cream. Some popular options include:
| Nut | Ice Cream |
|---|---|
| Pecans | Vanilla ice cream |
| Walnuts | Chocolate ice cream |
Other Treats
There are many other treats that can be enjoyed with ice cream, including:
Biscotti
Biscotti are a crunchy and delicious treat that can be enjoyed with ice cream, and can be easily customized to fit your favorite flavors. Simply bake a batch of biscotti according to your favorite recipe, and serve with ice cream. Some popular options include:
| Biscotti | Ice Cream |
|---|---|
| Almond biscotti | Vanilla ice cream |
| Chocolate biscotti | Chocolate ice cream |
Crepes
Crepes are a thin and delicate treat that can be enjoyed with ice cream, and can be easily customized to fit your favorite flavors. Simply bake a batch of crepes according to your favorite recipe, and fill with ice cream. Some popular options include:
| Crepes | Ice Cream |
|---|---|
| Strawberry crepes | Strawberry ice cream |
| Chocolate crepes | Chocolate ice cream |
In conclusion, there are many delicious treats that can be enjoyed with ice cream, from classic combinations like apple pie and vanilla ice cream to creative options like biscotti and crepes. Whether you’re looking for a crunchy snack or a sweet cake, there’s something on this list for everyone. So next time you’re in the mood for ice cream, try pairing it with one of these tasty treats for a truly unforgettable dessert experience.
What are some classic treats that pair well with ice cream?
When it comes to pairing treats with ice cream, there are several classic options that are sure to please. One of the most popular pairings is cookies and ice cream. The crunch of the cookies provides a nice textural contrast to the smoothness of the ice cream, and the flavors of the cookies can complement or contrast with the flavors of the ice cream. Another classic pairing is brownies and ice cream. The richness of the brownies pairs perfectly with the creaminess of the ice cream, and the two together create a decadent dessert.
Other classic pairings include cakes and ice cream, such as cheesecake or pound cake, and waffles and ice cream. The key is to find a treat that complements the flavors and textures of the ice cream, and to have fun experimenting with different combinations. You can also try pairing ice cream with other sweet treats, such as doughnuts or cinnamon rolls, for a unique and delicious dessert.
What are some unique treats that pair well with ice cream?
If you’re looking to try something new and unique, there are many treats that pair well with ice cream. One option is to pair ice cream with popcorn. The salty, crunchy texture of the popcorn provides a nice contrast to the smoothness of the ice cream, and the flavors of the popcorn can complement or contrast with the flavors of the ice cream. Another option is to pair ice cream with candy pieces, such as M&M’s or chopped peanut butter cups. The sweetness of the candy pairs perfectly with the creaminess of the ice cream, and the textures of the candy add a fun element to the dessert.
Other unique pairings include pairing ice cream with fruit, such as strawberries or blueberries, or with nuts, such as peanuts or almonds. You can also try pairing ice cream with other sweet treats, such as cookie dough or candy bars, for a unique and delicious dessert. The key is to have fun experimenting with different combinations and finding what works best for you.
What are some tips for pairing treats with ice cream?
When pairing treats with ice cream, there are several tips to keep in mind. First, consider the flavors of the treat and the ice cream. You want to find a combination that complements or contrasts with each other, rather than clashing. For example, if you’re pairing ice cream with a sweet treat, such as cookies or brownies, you may want to choose an ice cream flavor that is less sweet, such as vanilla or coffee.
Another tip is to consider the textures of the treat and the ice cream. You want to find a combination that provides a nice contrast in textures, such as crunchy and smooth or soft and creamy. Finally, don’t be afraid to experiment and try new combinations. You never know what unique and delicious pairing you might discover.
Can I pair ice cream with savory treats?
While ice cream is typically paired with sweet treats, there’s no reason why you can’t pair it with savory treats as well. In fact, some savory treats can provide a nice contrast to the sweetness of the ice cream. For example, you could pair ice cream with crackers or pretzels for a sweet and salty combination. You could also try pairing ice cream with savory cookies, such as those flavored with herbs or spices.
When pairing ice cream with savory treats, it’s especially important to consider the flavors and textures of the treat and the ice cream. You want to find a combination that complements or contrasts with each other, rather than clashing. You may also want to choose an ice cream flavor that is less sweet, such as vanilla or coffee, to balance out the savory flavors of the treat.
How can I incorporate treats into my ice cream sundaes?
There are many ways to incorporate treats into your ice cream sundaes. One option is to use the treat as a topping, such as sprinkling crushed cookies or chopped nuts over the top of the ice cream. You could also try using the treat as a base, such as placing a scoop of ice cream on top of a brownie or cookie. Another option is to mix the treat into the ice cream, such as folding in crushed candy pieces or cookie dough.
You can also get creative with how you incorporate the treat into the sundae. For example, you could try making a cookie sandwich with ice cream in the middle, or using a waffle cone as a bowl for your sundae. The key is to have fun and experiment with different combinations to find what works best for you.
What are some popular ice cream and treat combinations?
There are many popular ice cream and treat combinations that you can try. One classic combination is cookies and cream ice cream with chocolate chip cookies. Another popular combination is mint chocolate chip ice cream with brownies or chocolate cake. You could also try pairing strawberry ice cream with shortcake or vanilla ice cream with waffles.
Other popular combinations include pairing peanut butter cup ice cream with peanut butter cookies or chocolate ice cream with chocolate chip cookies. You can also try pairing unique ice cream flavors, such as matcha or lavender, with complementary treats, such as green tea cookies or shortbread cookies.
Can I make my own treats to pair with ice cream?
Yes, you can definitely make your own treats to pair with ice cream. In fact, making your own treats can be a fun and rewarding experience, and allows you to customize the flavors and textures to your liking. You can try making classic treats, such as cookies or brownies, or get creative and try making unique treats, such as cookie dough or candy pieces.
When making your own treats, be sure to consider the flavors and textures of the ice cream you’ll be pairing them with. You want to find a combination that complements or contrasts with each other, rather than clashing. You can also experiment with different ingredients and flavors to find what works best for you.