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If you’re looking for a luscious, decadent treat to beat the summer heat, this Strawberry Sundae hits the sweet spot! With layers of buttery pound cake, scoops of dreamy ice cream, a no-cook fresh strawberry sauce, and fluffy whipped cream, it’s like a classic sundae and strawberry shortcake had the ultimate dessert baby. Made in minutes and perfectly nostalgic, this juicy strawberry shortcake sundae is an unforgettable celebration in a glass—no fancy skills or equipment necessary!

“These sundaes are GORGEOUS!!! Wow! I haven’t ever macerated strawberries or any fruit – so thanks so much for that tip!”

– JESSI
Close-up photo showcasing the layers of strawberry shortcake with ice cream and strawberry sauce in a sundae.

Update: This post was originally published in June 2018. I edited the photos and updated the post below to include more information about homemade ice cream sundaes! 

Hi, friends! Today we’re celebrating summer with some epic strawberry sundaes. I mean, sure, you can (and should) enjoy ice cream during all the seasons, there’s just something deliciously special about enjoying a sweet, frozen treat on a hot, humid day. So, without further ado, let’s get to it this strawberry sundae recipe:

Table of Contents

About these strawberry sundaes

An epic mash up of delicious culinary classics, this recipe for strawberry sundaes is all about the layers of flavors and textures.

Imagine: scoops of velvety strawberry ice cream nestled atop cubes of buttery, moist pound cake, adorned with sweet honey-infused fresh strawberry sauce, and crowned with a dollop of airy-light whipped cream. Garnish with a sprig of cooling mint and each spoonful of this frosty sundae delivers an irresistibly decadent blend of textures and flavors—creamy-dreamy, luscious, fruity, fresh, and delightfully rich. Essentially, these sassy strawberry sundaes promise a deliciously unforgettable ice cream experience.

They’re the perfect indulgent treat and a must-have addition to all your backyard barbecues, birthday celebrations, pool parties and lazy, summer weekends. Plus, if you love a summer-fresh strawberry sweets as much as I do, these sundaes are a fantastic way to enjoy your favorite berries.

And, if you’re looking for more dessert recipes starring strawberries check out these favorites next: Berry Parfait and Strawberry Dessert Cake.

Why you’ll love this recipe

  • Vibrant, Fresh Flavors. The sundae sauce is made with real berries, enhanced with sweet honey, and balanced with a touch fresh lemon juice. The result is a quick homemade strawberry sauce that’s bursting with bright, fruity flavor.
  • Layered Perfection. Luscious ice cream and cloud-like whipped cream collide with chunky, silky strawberry sauce and buttery pound cake for a dessert that’s pure perfection.
  • Fast and Fuss-Free. You’ll just need simple-to-find ingredients and about 10 hands-on minutes.
  • Customizable. Use your favorite ice cream flavor, add candied nuts, swap the strawberry sauce for chocolate sauce, garnish with cherries, and more to create your own signature sundae recipe.
Angled, close-up photo of sliced raw strawberries for sundae sauce.

What is an ice cream sundae?

A sundae is a sweet ice cream dessert. It usually consists of one or more scoops of ice cream layered with a fruit sauce or dessert syrup. The ice cream in a sundae can be any flavor, from plain vanilla or strawberry to rocky road or cookies and cream. Ice cream sundaes typically include one or more toppings, such as whipped cream, colorful sprinkles, crushed peanuts, gummy bears, and/or maraschino cherries.

How to pronounce it?

An ice cream sundae is pronounced like the day of the week, suhn-dey or suhn-dae.

What is the origin of the sundae?

The sundae was invented in the late 1800’s as an alternative to carbonated beverages, such as ice cream sodas.

While not proven, some historians claim the name “sundae” was created out of response to Blue Laws. The laws stated that ice cream sodas could not be sold on Sundays, because they were too “frilly” and not appropriate to consume on a holy day. The name “sundae” was an attempt to avoid offending devoutly religious people and to prevent an outcry against naming a food sacrilegiously after the Sabbath.

Various people and locations have laid claim to be the birthplace of the ice cream sundae.

Evanston, Illinois was one of the first towns to outlaw the “Sunday Soda Menace” and claims to have originated the name ice cream sundae. While, soda fountain owner, Ed Berners of Two Rivers, Wisconsin is reputed to have invented the very first ice cream sundae in 1881.

Since the ice cream sundae is an absolutely delicious concoction, it’s really no wonder why there is such a great debate and many have laid claim to its creation!

Ingredients for strawberry ice cream sundae

A typically sundae consists of ice cream, sauces or syrups, and toppings. Here’s what you’ll need to make these strawberry sundaes:

  • Ice Cream. You can use homemade, no churn, or your favorite store bought ice cream. While vanilla ice cream is the classic choice, strawberry ice cream is what I prefer here. But, please use what you love.
  • Pound Cake. Store-bought cake is perfect for keeping things simple, but you can certainly use homemade for an extra touch of love and indulgence. Swap: Angel food cake or pound cake work great, too.
  • Strawberries. Fresh berries are the star of the sundae sauce, so be sure to look for bright red, plump strawberries for the best flavor.
  • Honey. You’ll need a little honey to macerate the strawberries, which creates the sundae sauce.
  • Lemon. A touch of fresh lemon juice brightens up the strawberry sauce. Make sure you grab a lemon and juice it for the best results, those yellow bottles of lemon juice are lackluster in flavor.
  • Whipped Cream. For topping, but you can swap in cool whip or cool whipped topping, if you prefer. 

Recipe variations

  • Strawberry Crunch Sundae. Top your sundae with strawberry shortcake crumbles to take your dessert to the next level of yum.
  • Berry Medley. Use a combination of berries, like blueberries and/or raspberries for a colorful sundae.
  • Chocolate Covered Strawberry. If you’re a chocolate lover, add a drizzle of chocolate sauce or hot fudge for a decadent twist.
  • Dairy-Free. Swap the regular ice cream and whipped topping for dairy-free alternatives.
Straight on action photo of strawberry sauce being poured over ice cream and diced short cake in a sundae glass.

How to make strawberry shortcake sundae

These strawberry ice cream shortcake treats are so easy to make and the perfect way to beat the summer heat! You just need a handful of ingredients and 10 minutes of active hands-on preparation:

  1. Prepare strawberry sauce. In a medium sized bowl, combine the strawberries, amaretto (or extract), honey and lemon juice. Next, add a pinch of flakey sea salt and stir well. Then, let the strawberries sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
  2. Slice the pound cake. Place the cake onto a clean work surface and use a sharp knife to cut it into ½’’ thick slices. Then, cut the slices into cubes or rounds using a cookie cutter or sharp kitchen knife.
  3. Assemble the sundaes. Drizzle a little bit of sauce in the glass. Then, place a couple cubes (or one round) of pound cake into a sundae serving glass. Next, top with a large scoop of ice cream and some of the strawberries, drizzling some of the amaretto sauce on top as well. Finally, top with more pound cake, ice cream, strawberries, and sauce.
  4. Serve strawberry shortcake sundaes. Finish with a dollop of whipped cream, a fresh strawberry, mint and lemon zest, if using. Enjoy!

Chef expert tips for perfect results every time!

  • Quality Ingredients. When it comes to super simple recipes like an ice cream sundae, you want to make sure to use the highest-quality ingredients as possible. This is especially true when it comes to the ice cream and strawberries—select a premium ice cream brand and bright, uniformly-red strawberries that’re firm to the touch.
  • Pretty Presentation. For an aesthetically pleasing look, use clear glasses, such as a tall drink glass, mason jar, or classic sundae bowl, to showcase the vibrant colors.
  • Layer Thoughtfully. Start with a dollop of strawberry sauce, then cubes of cake, add ice cream, then more sauce, and finish with a generous dollop of whipped cream and a sprig of mint.
  • Serve Immediately. Unfortunately, ice cream melts. So be sure to assemble the strawberry shortcake sundae with ice cream just before serving.
Straight on photo of a strawberry ice cream sundae with fresh strawberries.

FAQs: frequently asked questions

Below you’ll find the most common questions and answers about making this recipe. If you have a question you’d like answered, please drop it in the comments section below!

Can I use frozen strawberries?

You sure can; however, you’ll need to make a few adjustments to the recipe. Instead of making a traditional sundae sauce, which requires cooking and cooling, you’ll be using a simple process of macerating strawberries. However, defrosted frozen berries give off much more liquid than fresh strawberries, hence the need for adjustments:

To use frozen, simply thaw the strawberries and drain them, reserving the juice. Then, whisk the honey, lemon, and salt into the liquid. Finally, add the berries to the liquid, toss, and enjoy.

Can I use a different type of cake?

Absolutely! I recommend using a variety of cake you actually enjoy eating. I personally love rich, buttery pound cake. However, cloud-like angel food cake is the traditional option. And, delicate sponge cake works as well. Or, you can take things in a totally different direction and dice up strawberry cake, vanilla cake, fudge brownies, cookie bars, and more. 

What ice cream flavors can I use?

My best advice is to avoid any complicated ice cream flavors. Since this recipe for strawberry shortcake with ice cream is all about the strawberries, I like to use fresh strawberry ice cream. However, you can absolutely get more creative if you’d like. My only recommendation would be to select a variety of ice cream that complements strawberry flavor, and doesn’t compete or clash with it. Scoop of vanilla ice cream, chocolate, Neapolitan, peach, salted caramel, lemon, cookies and cream, or even ginger work well. And if you’re looking for homemade options, check out this blueberry ice cream or buttered pecan ice cream.

And, if you’re looking for a more wholesome option, swap out the ice cream and use yogurt cream (whipped greek yogurt) or soft serve instead.

Is this recipe gluten free?

As long as you use a gluten-free brand of ice cream and your toppings are gluten-free, you’ll be good to go.

Can I make the strawberry sauce ahead of time?

You sure can. The strawberry sauce here isn’t a traditional sundae sauce and there’s zero cooking required. However, the macerated strawberry sauce will keep in the fridge for about 3 days.

Serving strawberry shortcake with ice cream

Always serve ice cream sundaes cold, as close to assembling them as possible. Strawberry shortcake sundaes pair well with lazy pool days, warm weather, frosty popsicles, icy cold drinks, and more. Below are some ideas to inspire:

Common serving suggestions

  • Nostalgic Touch: Serve your sundae in a footed sundae glass or soda glass and top with extra whipped cream, a mint sprig, and a maraschino cherry for that classic ice cream parlor experience.
  • Sauce it: Add a drizzle of chocolate sauce, caramel sauce, pureed fruit, or fruit butter for a personal touch.
  • Top it: To add more texture, top your sundae with candied nuts, salted peanuts, sprinkles, toasted coconut flakes, chocolate chips, white chocolate shavings, fruity pebbles, and so much more.

Unique serving ideas

  • Sundae Bar: If serving guests, consider creating a DIY dessert bar with various ice creams and toppings, like sprinkles and crushed cookies, for an interactive experience.
  • Pair It: Serve your strawberry sundaes with a lemonade, vodka pink lemonade, or strawberry basil cocktails to a refreshing dessert experience.
  • Put a Twist on It: Pair your shortcake sundae with a slice of actual shortcake for a true strawberry shortcake dessert experience.

storing leftovers

  • Refrigerator storage: Store leftover macerated strawberry sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing instructions: Unfortunately, freezing the assembled strawberry shortcake sundae with ice cream isn’t recommended as the cake and strawberries become soggy. However, you can freeze the macerated strawberry sauce. Simply add it to a freezer-safe resealable bag and store in the freezer for 6 months.
  • Reheating instructions: No reheating necessary!
Close-up, straight on photo of a strawberry shortcake sundae with ice cream, pound cake, sundae sauce, and whipped cream.

Creamy-dreamy and bursting with both fresh strawberries and cubes of cake, this strawberry shortcake sundae is so much more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of summer and sweets in a glass! Super easy to make and even easier to devour, you’re going to want to get those ice cream scoops ready.

Gather your favorite humans, a few gallons of ice cream, and a couple pints of berries and indulge in a strawberry shortcake with ice cream masterpiece! Until next week, cheers!

Cheyanne

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More icy summer desserts!

Straight on photo of two strawberry sundaes made with strawberry ice cream, short cake, sundae sauce, and whipped cream.

Strawberry Sundaes

5 from 9 votes
Author: Cheyanne Holzworth
Total Time: 10 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4 sundaes
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
If you're looking for a luscious, decadent treat to beat the summer heat, this Strawberry Sundae hits the sweet spot! With layers of buttery pound cake, scoops of dreamy ice cream, a no-cook fresh strawberry sauce, and fluffy whipped cream, it's like a classic sundae and strawberry shortcake had the ultimate dessert baby. Made in minutes and perfectly nostalgic, this juicy strawberry shortcake sundae is an unforgettable celebration in a glass—no fancy skills or equipment necessary!

Equipment

  • 1 Medium Mixing Bowl – for macerating strawberries for sundae sauce
  • 4 Sundae Glasses – for serving strawberry sundaes

Ingredients 

  • ½ Quart Strawberry Ice Cream – or any ice cream flavor you love
  • 1 whole Pound Cake – homemade or store-bought (substitute: angel food cake or sponge cake)

Strawberry Sauce

Instructions

  • Macerate the Strawberries for Sauce: In a medium sized bowl, combine the strawberries, amaretto, honey, and lemon juice with a pinch of flakey sea salt. Use a spoon and gently toss, stir to coat the berries.
    Then, let the strawberries sit at room temperature and macerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
  • Cube the Cake: Place the cake onto a clean work surface and then use a sharp knife to cut it into ½-inch thick slices.
    Then, use a knife to cut the slices into cubes or use a cookie cutter to cut the slices into rounds.
  • Layer the Ingredients in Sundae Glass: Add a small amount of the macerated strawberries and sauce to the bottom of a tall glass or sundae bowl.
    Then, add a couple cubes or one large round of pound cake into a sundae serving glass.
    Next, top with a large scoop of ice cream.
    Then, some of the strawberries along with their sauce.
    If using a tall glass, repeat the layer one more time.
  • Garnish and Serve Strawberry Sundaes: Garnish your ice cream strawberry shortcake sundae with a sprig of mint and a fresh strawberry or strawberry crumbles and enjoy immediately.

Notes

  • Ice Cream: You can use any flavor of ice cream your heart desires. Vanilla is classic, while strawberry is perfectly fitting, and chocolate is ideal if you love chocolate covered strawberries. 
    • Trouble scooping ice cream? Warm your ice cream scoop under lukewarm running water prior to scooping your ice cream. A warm scoop will cut through ice cream more efficiently.
  • Amaretto: If you aren’t a fan of amaretto, you can substitute almond-flavored liqueur, Grand Mariner, brandy, bourbon, rum, or even vodka.
    • Non-Alcoholic: Looking to make the strawberry syrup non-alcoholic? Simply skip the amaretto. Use granulated sugar in place of the honey and use 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon almond extract instead. You might want to increase the lemon juice by a teaspoon or more as well. I suggest tasting and adjusting the strawberries to your specific taste!
  • Toppings: If you want to really take things over the top, try adding in shaved chocolate, flavored syrups, toasted sliced almonds and more, the sky really is the limit.
  • Need to Scale the Recipe? Hover your mouse over the number of servings in the recipe card. You’ll see a sliding scale pop up, you can use that to scale the recipe up or down as needed.
  • Got questions? I’ve got answers! If you ever run into an issue, have a question, or need any clarification – please feel free to drop them in the comments section. I’m happy to help when I can! 
Nutritional information is provided as a courtesy and the nutrition facts are an estimate based upon 4 servings. Exact information will depend upon the brands of ingredients and precise measurements used.

Nutrition

Calories: 331kcal    Carbohydrates: 54g    Protein: 5g    Fat: 10g    Saturated Fat: 6g    Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.2g    Monounsaturated Fat: 0.1g    Cholesterol: 35mg    Sodium: 75mg    Potassium: 408mg    Fiber: 3g    Sugar: 18g    Vitamin A: 393IU    Vitamin C: 77mg    Calcium: 161mg    Iron: 1mg
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American

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