Growing up, Sundays were always a special day in our household. After church, my family would gather in the kitchen, where the air was thick with the smell of freshly baked brownies. My mom would whip up a batch of her famous chocolate brownies, and we would eagerly wait to top them with ice cream and all the fixings. This modern twist on the classic sundae combines rich brownie bites, creamy vanilla ice cream, and a luscious salted caramel sauce that elevates this beloved dessert to a whole new level. It’s not just a treat; it’s a trip down memory lane!
Ingredients
- 1 batch of homemade brownies (or store-bought if you’re short on time)
- 4 scoops of vanilla ice cream
- 1 cup of salted caramel sauce
- 1/2 cup of crushed toasted pecans (or walnuts)
- Whipped cream, for topping
- Maraschino cherries, for garnish
- Chocolate shavings, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
To make this delightful brownie sundae, follow these simple steps:
Start by preparing your brownies. If you’re making them from scratch, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9 inch baking pan. In a mixing bowl, combine:
- 1/2 cup of melted butter
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of baking powder
Mix until fully combined. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the brownies to cool completely before cutting them into bite-sized squares.
While the brownies are cooling, prepare the salted caramel sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine:
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup of water
Stir gently until the sugar dissolves, then let it simmer without stirring until it turns a deep amber color (about 8-10 minutes). Remove from heat and carefully stir in:
- 1/2 cup of heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon of sea salt
Be cautious, as the mixture will bubble up. Stir until smooth. Allow the caramel to cool slightly.
Now it’s time to assemble your sundae! In a tall glass or dessert bowl, layer the brownie squares at the bottom. Add a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. Drizzle with the warm salted caramel sauce, letting it cascade down the sides of the ice cream. Sprinkle with crushed pecans for added crunch.
Finish your sundae with a dollop of whipped cream, a maraschino cherry on top, and a sprinkle of chocolate shavings if desired. Repeat the layering process for additional servings.
Serve immediately and watch as your family digs in, smiles spreading across their faces as they savor each decadent bite. This brownie sundae is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of sweet memories and the joy of togetherness.