22+ Irresistible Ice Cream Dessert Recipes You Need to Try

Ice cream desserts have long been a beloved way to satisfy sweet cravings, combining creamy textures with endless flavor possibilities.

Whether you’re in the mood for a classic sundae, a refreshing parfait, or an indulgent brownie delight, there’s an ice cream dessert to suit every taste and occasion.

In this collection of 22+ ice cream dessert recipes, you’ll discover easy-to-make treats that blend rich ice cream with fruits, cookies, sauces, and more—perfect for summer gatherings, special celebrations, or simply a delicious way to cool down.

Dive into these creative recipes and find your new favorite frozen indulgence!

22+ Irresistible Ice Cream Dessert Recipes You Need to Try

With these 22+ ice cream dessert recipes, you have a world of sweet, creamy delights at your fingertips.

From simple and quick sundaes to layered parfaits and unique flavor combinations, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Whether you’re hosting a party, treating family, or indulging solo, these recipes make it easy to turn everyday ice cream into extraordinary desserts.

Experiment with your favorite ingredients and elevate your dessert game with these tasty, crowd-pleasing ideas.

brownie sundae

Brownie sundae is a classic ice cream dessert that combines rich, fudgy brownies with creamy vanilla ice cream, topped with warm chocolate sauce and nuts.

This indulgent dessert is perfect for chocolate lovers and a fantastic way to elevate a simple scoop of ice cream into a decadent treat.

Ingredients:

• Brownie pieces (store-bought or homemade)
• Vanilla ice cream
• Warm chocolate sauce
• Chopped nuts (optional)
• Whipped cream (optional)
• Maraschino cherry for topping (optional)

Instructions:

1. Place a few brownie pieces in a serving bowl or dish.
2. Add a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream on top of the brownies.
3. Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over the ice cream and brownies.
4. Sprinkle with chopped nuts if desired.
5. Top with whipped cream and a cherry for extra flair.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy the warm and cold contrast.

Brownie sundae is an easy-to-make dessert that brings together multiple textures and flavors—gooey brownies, smooth ice cream, and crunchy nuts—resulting in a truly satisfying experience.

banana split

Banana split is a timeless ice cream dessert featuring a split banana lined with scoops of various ice cream flavors and topped with syrups, nuts, whipped cream, and cherries.

It’s a perfect balance of fresh fruit, creamy ice cream, and sweet toppings, making it a crowd-pleaser for all ages.

Ingredients:

• Ripe banana
• Three scoops of ice cream (typically vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry)
• Chocolate syrup
• Strawberry syrup
• Pineapple topping
• Whipped cream
• Chopped nuts
• Maraschino cherries

Instructions:

1. Peel the banana and slice it lengthwise, placing each half on opposite sides of a long dessert dish.
2. Place a scoop of each ice cream flavor between the banana halves.
3. Drizzle chocolate syrup over the chocolate ice cream, strawberry syrup over the strawberry scoop, and pineapple topping over the vanilla.
4. Add whipped cream over each scoop.
5. Sprinkle with chopped nuts and top each whipped cream dollop with a cherry.
6. Serve immediately.

This banana split is a colorful and delicious dessert that offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors, making it a perfect summer treat or special occasion indulgence.

ice cream cake

Ice cream cake is a show-stopping dessert made by layering ice cream with cake or cookie crumbs and freezing until firm.

This no-bake dessert is customizable with various ice cream flavors and toppings, ideal for celebrations or anytime you want a rich, creamy dessert with a cake twist.

Ingredients:

• Your choice of ice cream flavors
• Crushed cookies or cake crumbs
• Whipped cream
• Chocolate or caramel sauce
• Sprinkles or nuts (optional)

Instructions:

1. Line a cake pan with plastic wrap for easy removal.
2. Spread a layer of crushed cookies or cake crumbs on the bottom.
3. Add a layer of softened ice cream and smooth it out.
4. Repeat layers of crumbs and ice cream until the pan is filled, ending with ice cream on top.
5. Cover and freeze until firm (several hours or overnight).
6. Remove from the pan, top with whipped cream, drizzle sauces, and add sprinkles or nuts if desired.
7. Slice and serve chilled.

Ice cream cake combines the best of both worlds—cake and ice cream—in a versatile dessert that’s perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion, delighting guests with its creamy texture and sweet layers.

affogato

Affogato is a simple yet elegant Italian ice cream dessert that pairs hot espresso poured over creamy vanilla ice cream.

This combination creates a perfect balance between the rich bitterness of coffee and the smooth sweetness of ice cream, making it an ideal dessert for coffee lovers.

Ingredients:

• Vanilla ice cream
• Freshly brewed hot espresso or strong coffee

Instructions:

1. Place a scoop of vanilla ice cream into a small serving glass or bowl.
2. Pour freshly brewed hot espresso over the ice cream.
3. Serve immediately to enjoy the warm and cold contrast.

Affogato is a quick and sophisticated dessert that offers an exciting blend of temperatures and flavors, perfect for ending a meal or as an afternoon pick-me-up.

ice cream sandwich

Ice cream sandwich is a fun and portable dessert where creamy ice cream is sandwiched between two soft cookies.

It’s a customizable treat perfect for warm days or casual gatherings, offering the delightful mix of chewy cookies and cold ice cream.

Ingredients:

• Your favorite cookies (chocolate chip, sugar, or oatmeal)
• Ice cream flavor of choice

Instructions:

1. Soften the ice cream slightly for easier spreading.
2. Place a scoop of ice cream on the bottom side of one cookie.
3. Top with another cookie and gently press together to form a sandwich.
4. Optional: Roll the edges in mini chocolate chips, sprinkles, or nuts.
5. Freeze the sandwiches for at least 30 minutes before serving to firm up.

Ice cream sandwiches are an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing dessert that combines textures and flavors into one handheld treat, perfect for kids and adults alike.

peach ice cream parfait

Peach ice cream parfait layers fresh peach slices with creamy ice cream and crunchy granola or nuts for a refreshing and textured dessert.

This parfait is light yet indulgent, making it a great summer dessert or a healthier ice cream option.

Ingredients:

• Vanilla or peach ice cream
• Fresh peach slices
• Granola or chopped nuts
• Honey or maple syrup (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a glass or bowl, layer peach slices at the bottom.
2. Add a scoop of ice cream over the peaches.
3. Sprinkle a layer of granola or nuts for crunch.
4. Repeat the layers until the glass is full.
5. Drizzle honey or maple syrup on top if desired.
6. Serve immediately.

This peach ice cream parfait combines creamy, sweet, fruity, and crunchy elements, offering a balanced and delightful dessert experience.

affogato float

Affogato float is a delightful twist on the classic Italian affogato, combining creamy vanilla ice cream with a splash of espresso and fizzy soda water.

This refreshing dessert offers a unique blend of bitter coffee, sweet ice cream, and bubbly texture, perfect for warm days or after-dinner indulgence.

Ingredients:

• Vanilla ice cream
• Freshly brewed espresso
• Sparkling water or club soda

Instructions:

1. Scoop vanilla ice cream into a tall glass.
2. Pour a shot of hot espresso over the ice cream.
3. Top off with sparkling water or club soda for a fizzy finish.
4. Serve immediately with a spoon and straw.

This affogato float combines creamy, bitter, and bubbly elements for an exciting and refreshing ice cream dessert experience.

fried ice cream

Fried ice cream is a crispy and creamy dessert featuring a scoop of ice cream coated in a crunchy shell, quickly deep-fried to golden perfection.

The contrast between the warm, crispy exterior and the cold, creamy interior creates a fun and indulgent treat.

Ingredients:

• Vanilla ice cream
• Cornflakes or crushed cookies for coating
• Eggs (for dipping)
• Oil for frying
• Honey or chocolate sauce for drizzling

Instructions:

1. Scoop ice cream into balls and freeze until very firm.
2. Dip each ball into beaten eggs, then roll in crushed cornflakes or cookies.
3. Freeze the coated balls again until firm.
4. Heat oil to medium-high and fry the ice cream balls briefly (just a few seconds) until golden.
5. Drain excess oil and drizzle with honey or chocolate sauce.
6. Serve immediately.

Fried ice cream is a spectacular dessert that combines textures and temperatures in a fun, crispy, and creamy way, perfect for impressing guests.

ice cream trifle

Ice cream trifle layers ice cream with cake pieces, fruit, and whipped cream in a clear dish, creating a beautiful and delicious multi-textured dessert.

This easy-to-assemble treat is perfect for parties and gatherings, allowing for endless variations.

Ingredients:

• Your favorite ice cream flavors
• Cubed cake or brownies
• Fresh berries or fruit
• Whipped cream
• Chocolate shavings or nuts (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a trifle bowl or glass dish, layer cake cubes at the bottom.
2. Add a layer of ice cream over the cake.
3. Sprinkle fresh fruit over the ice cream.
4. Add a layer of whipped cream.
5. Repeat layers until the dish is full.
6. Top with chocolate shavings or nuts if desired.
7. Freeze briefly if needed before serving.

Ice cream trifle offers a stunning presentation and a delightful mix of creamy, cakey, and fruity flavors that make it a crowd-pleasing dessert.

strawberry shortcake ice cream dessert

Strawberry shortcake ice cream dessert combines the classic flavors of strawberry shortcake with creamy ice cream for a fresh and delightful treat.

Layers of sweet strawberries, vanilla ice cream, and soft cake create a perfect balance of textures and flavors.

Ingredients:

• Vanilla ice cream
• Fresh strawberries, sliced
• Shortcake or sponge cake pieces
• Whipped cream
• Honey or powdered sugar (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a serving glass or bowl, layer pieces of cake at the bottom.
2. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream over the cake.
3. Top with a generous layer of sliced strawberries.
4. Repeat layers if desired.
5. Finish with a dollop of whipped cream and a drizzle of honey or sprinkle of powdered sugar.
6. Serve immediately.

This strawberry shortcake ice cream dessert is a light and refreshing option that combines fruity sweetness with creamy richness, perfect for spring and summer gatherings.

chocolate banana ice cream parfait

Chocolate banana ice cream parfait is a decadent layered dessert that pairs creamy chocolate ice cream with fresh banana slices and crunchy granola or nuts. The combination of chocolate, fruit, and crunch makes this parfait an irresistible treat.

Ingredients:

• Chocolate ice cream
• Fresh bananas, sliced
• Granola or chopped nuts
• Whipped cream (optional)
• Chocolate syrup (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a clear glass, layer chocolate ice cream at the bottom.
2. Add a layer of banana slices over the ice cream.
3. Sprinkle granola or chopped nuts on top.
4. Repeat the layers until the glass is full.
5. Top with whipped cream and drizzle chocolate syrup if desired.
6. Serve immediately.

This chocolate banana ice cream parfait offers a delicious balance of creamy, fruity, and crunchy textures, making it perfect for an indulgent dessert.

tropical ice cream bowl

Tropical ice cream bowl is a refreshing and colorful dessert featuring tropical fruits like mango, pineapple, and kiwi paired with coconut or vanilla ice cream.

It’s a light, fruity treat that transports you to a sunny island getaway with every bite.

Ingredients:

• Coconut or vanilla ice cream
• Mango chunks
• Pineapple chunks
• Kiwi slices
• Toasted coconut flakes (optional)
• Fresh mint leaves (optional)

Instructions:

1. Scoop coconut or vanilla ice cream into a serving bowl.
2. Arrange mango, pineapple, and kiwi pieces around the ice cream.
3. Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top if desired.
4. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for added freshness.
5. Serve immediately.

This tropical ice cream bowl combines creamy sweetness with bright, juicy fruits for a perfect summer dessert that feels both indulgent and refreshing.

caramel apple sundae

Caramel apple sundae is a warm and comforting ice cream dessert that blends the flavors of cooked apples and rich caramel sauce with creamy vanilla ice cream.

This dessert offers a delicious mix of textures and tastes reminiscent of classic apple pie.

Ingredients:

• Vanilla ice cream
• Cooked cinnamon-spiced apples (sauté sliced apples with butter, cinnamon, and a bit of sweetener)
• Caramel sauce
• Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
• Whipped cream (optional)

Instructions:

1. Place a scoop of vanilla ice cream in a bowl or glass.
2. Top with warm cooked apples.
3. Drizzle caramel sauce over the top.
4. Sprinkle with chopped nuts and add whipped cream if desired.
5. Serve immediately.

This caramel apple sundae is a perfect cozy dessert that combines warm, spiced fruit with cold ice cream, offering a delightful treat especially in cooler months.

cookies and cream parfait

Cookies and cream parfait layers chunks of chocolate sandwich cookies with vanilla or cookies and cream ice cream and whipped cream.

It’s a quick, no-bake dessert that’s both crunchy and creamy, ideal for cookie lovers.

Ingredients:

• Cookies and cream ice cream or vanilla ice cream
• Crushed chocolate sandwich cookies
• Whipped cream
• Chocolate shavings or sprinkles (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a clear glass, add a layer of crushed cookies.
2. Add a layer of ice cream.
3. Top with whipped cream.
4. Repeat layers until the glass is full.
5. Garnish with chocolate shavings or sprinkles if desired.
6. Serve immediately.

This cookies and cream parfait is an easy and indulgent dessert that’s perfect for satisfying sweet cravings with minimal effort.

peanut butter cup sundae

Peanut butter cup sundae is a rich and indulgent ice cream dessert featuring creamy vanilla ice cream topped with peanut butter sauce, chopped peanut butter cups, and whipped cream.

It’s a decadent treat for peanut butter and chocolate lovers alike.

Ingredients:

• Vanilla ice cream
• Peanut butter sauce (melted peanut butter mixed with a bit of heavy cream or sweetener)
• Chopped peanut butter cups
• Whipped cream
• Chocolate syrup (optional)

Instructions:

1. Scoop vanilla ice cream into a bowl or glass.
2. Drizzle peanut butter sauce generously over the ice cream.
3. Sprinkle chopped peanut butter cups on top.
4. Add a dollop of whipped cream and drizzle chocolate syrup if desired.
5. Serve immediately.

This peanut butter cup sundae combines creamy, nutty, and chocolate flavors for a satisfying and indulgent ice cream dessert experience.

black forest sundae

Black forest sundae is a decadent ice cream dessert inspired by the classic Black Forest cake, combining rich chocolate ice cream, cherries, and whipped cream.

This dessert offers a perfect balance of sweet, tart, and creamy flavors.

Ingredients:

• Chocolate ice cream
• Cherry pie filling or fresh cherries
• Whipped cream
• Chocolate shavings or syrup

Instructions:

1. Scoop chocolate ice cream into a serving bowl or glass.
2. Top with a generous spoonful of cherry pie filling or fresh cherries.
3. Add a layer of whipped cream.
4. Garnish with chocolate shavings or drizzle chocolate syrup.
5. Serve immediately.

This black forest sundae delivers a luscious combination of flavors reminiscent of the beloved cake, making it an irresistible ice cream treat.

mango coconut parfait

Mango coconut parfait is a tropical ice cream dessert layering creamy coconut ice cream with fresh mango chunks and toasted coconut flakes.

This refreshing parfait is perfect for warm days and offers a sweet, fruity twist.

Ingredients:

• Coconut ice cream
• Fresh mango chunks
• Toasted coconut flakes
• Honey or agave syrup (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a glass or bowl, layer coconut ice cream and mango chunks alternately.
2. Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes between layers and on top.
3. Drizzle honey or agave syrup if desired.
4. Serve immediately.

This mango coconut parfait combines tropical flavors with creamy texture, creating a refreshing and delightful dessert experience.

espresso brownie sundae

Espresso brownie sundae is a rich and energizing dessert featuring fudgy brownie pieces, espresso-soaked ice cream, and whipped cream.

It’s perfect for chocolate and coffee lovers seeking a decadent treat.

Ingredients:

• Brownie pieces
• Coffee or espresso-flavored ice cream
• Freshly brewed espresso
• Whipped cream
• Chocolate syrup (optional)

Instructions:

1. Place brownie pieces in a serving dish.
2. Add scoops of coffee or espresso ice cream over the brownies.
3. Drizzle freshly brewed espresso on top.
4. Add whipped cream and drizzle chocolate syrup if desired.
5. Serve immediately.

This espresso brownie sundae combines bold coffee flavor with rich chocolate for a truly indulgent ice cream dessert.

peach cobbler sundae

Peach cobbler sundae is a comforting ice cream dessert that combines warm, spiced peaches with vanilla ice cream and a crumbly biscuit topping.

This dessert offers the perfect blend of warm fruitiness and cold creaminess, reminiscent of a classic southern peach cobbler.

Ingredients:

• Vanilla ice cream
• Fresh or canned peaches, cooked with cinnamon and a bit of sugar
• Crumbled biscuit or granola topping
• Whipped cream (optional)

Instructions:

1. Spoon warm spiced peaches into a serving bowl.
2. Add a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.
3. Sprinkle crumbled biscuit or granola over the ice cream.
4. Top with whipped cream if desired.
5. Serve immediately.

This peach cobbler sundae offers a nostalgic, cozy flavor combination that’s perfect for both summer and fall dessert cravings.

chocolate chip cookie sundae

Chocolate chip cookie sundae is a delicious ice cream dessert featuring warm chocolate chip cookies topped with vanilla ice cream and drizzled with chocolate sauce.

The contrast between warm cookies and cold ice cream makes it a favorite comfort treat.

Ingredients:

• Warm chocolate chip cookies
• Vanilla ice cream
• Chocolate syrup
• Whipped cream (optional)

Instructions:

1. Place warm chocolate chip cookies on a serving plate.
2. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top of the cookies.
3. Drizzle chocolate syrup over the ice cream and cookies.
4. Add whipped cream if desired.
5. Serve immediately.

This chocolate chip cookie sundae is an easy and indulgent dessert that combines the best of cookies and ice cream.

mint chocolate chip parfait

Mint chocolate chip parfait layers refreshing mint chocolate chip ice cream with crushed chocolate cookies and whipped cream for a cool, textured dessert.

It’s a perfect treat for mint lovers seeking a quick and tasty dessert.

Ingredients:

• Mint chocolate chip ice cream
• Crushed chocolate sandwich cookies
• Whipped cream
• Mini chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a clear glass, layer crushed cookies at the bottom.
2. Add a scoop of mint chocolate chip ice cream.
3. Top with whipped cream.
4. Repeat layers as desired.
5. Sprinkle mini chocolate chips on top for extra texture.
6. Serve immediately.

This mint chocolate chip parfait is a refreshing and delicious way to enjoy classic ice cream flavors with added crunch.

Conclusion

Ice cream desserts offer a perfect balance of creamy richness and endless customization, making them a go-to choice for any occasion. This collection of 22+ ice cream dessert recipes showcases just how versatile and fun ice cream can be when paired with different toppings, fruits, and baked treats. From warm fruit toppings to crunchy cookie layers, these recipes invite you to explore new flavor combinations and textures. Whether you prefer classic flavors or adventurous twists, these desserts will keep you coming back for more sweet, chilled satisfaction.