If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that brings together everything delightful about classic British sweets with a rich, indulgent twist, then this Ultimate English Brownie Sundae Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine the fudgy, chocolatey warmth of homemade brownies paired perfectly with creamy vanilla ice cream, topped with luscious caramel and chocolate sauces, crunchy nuts, and crowned with a fluffy cloud of whipped cream and a maraschino cherry. It’s easy to prepare, irresistibly delicious, and guaranteed to turn any ordinary day into a celebration of flavor and comfort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things simple but incredibly effective. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building the texture and flavor layers that make the Ultimate English Brownie Sundae Recipe such a standout dessert. From the rich butter and cocoa that give the brownies their fudgy backdrop to the creamy vanilla ice cream that adds a cool contrast, every component counts.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted: This provides the rich, moist base that makes these brownies wonderfully tender.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create that desirable chewy crust on the brownies.
- ½ cup brown sugar: Brings a hint of caramel flavor and extra moisture to the batter.
- 3 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and contribute to the fudgy texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances flavor with its warm, sweet aroma.
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder: The star chocolatier that brings rich, deep chocolate taste without excess sweetness.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Provides structure while keeping the brownies tender.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and brightens the chocolate flavors.
- ½ teaspoon baking powder: Adds a touch of lift to keep the brownies from becoming too dense.
- 4 scoops vanilla ice cream: The cold, creamy contrast that makes this sundae so dreamy.
- ¼ cup caramel sauce: Sweet, buttery drizzle that complements the chocolate perfectly.
- ¼ cup chocolate sauce: Extra rich topping for that chocolate lover’s dream.
- ¼ cup chopped nuts (optional): Adds a welcome crunch and texture contrast.
- ½ cup whipped cream: Light and airy, crowning the sundae with a creamy finish.
- 4 maraschino cherries: The iconic red jewel that brings a pop of color and sweetness.
How to Make Ultimate English Brownie Sundae Recipe
Step 1: Preheat & Prepare Your Pan
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper; this prevents sticking and makes lifting your brownies out a breeze when they’re perfectly baked.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture looks smooth and slightly glossy. This combination is the base of your brownie’s rich sweetness and luscious texture. Then, add in the eggs and vanilla extract, whisking until everything is fully incorporated and silky.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
Sift the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder into the wet mixture. This step ensures no lumps and a nice, even distribution of ingredients for that perfect fudgy yet tender brownie texture. Stir gently until your batter is thick and ready to pour.
Step 4: Bake the Brownies
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly. Pop it into the oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs attached—this trick keeps them irresistibly gooey but cooked through.
Step 5: Cool and Cut
Once baked, let your brownies cool completely before slicing them into squares. Cooling is crucial because it helps the brownies set, making clean cuts easier and keeping your Ultimate English Brownie Sundae Recipe neat and inviting.
Step 6: Assemble Your Sundae
Place a cool brownie square into a serving bowl and top it with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream. Don’t be shy with the toppings—drizzle both caramel and chocolate sauces liberally over the ice cream and brownie for a rich, gooey finish. If you like a little crunch, sprinkle some chopped nuts on top.
Step 7: The Final Touch
Crown each sundae with fluffy whipped cream and a bright maraschino cherry. This last step is what truly turns your brownie sundae into the Ultimate English Brownie Sundae Recipe—inviting, indulgent, and impossible to resist.
How to Serve Ultimate English Brownie Sundae Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes like additional chopped nuts, mini chocolate chips, or a dusting of cocoa powder elevates the texture and look of your sundae. Don’t be afraid to experiment with fresh berries or a sprinkle of sea salt for an unexpected flavor twist that complements the richness.
Side Dishes
Though the Ultimate English Brownie Sundae Recipe is robust enough on its own, pairing it with a hot cup of strong coffee or a refreshing glass of cold milk makes for an unbeatable duo. For special occasions, a small serving of fresh fruit salad can lighten the dessert experience beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Get playful with your presentation by serving the brownie sundae in elegant glass parfait dishes or mason jars. Layering the components in clear containers lets you showcase those beautiful swirls of sauce and creamy ice cream. For parties, consider making mini sundae shooters for bite-sized indulgence that everyone can enjoy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any brownie squares leftover before assembling your sundaes, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, ready for your next dessert craving.
Freezing
Brownies freeze wonderfully. Place the cooled, uncut brownie slab or individual squares in a freezer-safe container with parchment layers to prevent sticking. Freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw them overnight in the fridge before using them in your Ultimate English Brownie Sundae Recipe.
Reheating
To bring back that freshly baked warmth, reheat brownie squares in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or in a low oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes. Be careful not to overheat, especially if you plan to top them with ice cream immediately after.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought brownies for this sundae?
Absolutely! While homemade brownies add a special touch, quality store-bought brownies can save time and still deliver delicious results for your Ultimate English Brownie Sundae Recipe.
What other ice cream flavors go well with this recipe?
Vanilla is classic, but you can experiment with salted caramel, coffee, or even mint chocolate chip for exciting variations that keep the sundae fresh and personalized.
Is it necessary to use both caramel and chocolate sauces?
Not at all. You can use one or the other based on your preference. Both add complementary flavors, but the sundae will still be divine with just one sauce.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free or vegan?
Yes! Substitute the butter for vegan margarine, use a plant-based milk and dairy-free ice cream, and check that your sauces are vegan-friendly to create a cruelty-free version of this indulgent treat.
How do I prevent brownies from drying out?
Be careful not to overbake—remove them from the oven when a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs. Also, store them properly in airtight containers to keep them soft and fudgy.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking to impress friends or just treat yourself to something utterly scrumptious, the Ultimate English Brownie Sundae Recipe is a delightful journey from rich homemade brownies to creamy, dreamy toppings. It’s easy enough for a weeknight indulgence but special enough to make any occasion memorable. So, don your apron, preheat that oven, and dive into this warm, comforting classic that brings joy with every luscious spoonful.
Print
Ultimate English Brownie Sundae Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: English
Description
Indulge in the Ultimate English Brownie Sundae, a delightful dessert combining rich, fudgy brownies with creamy vanilla ice cream, drizzled with luscious caramel and chocolate sauces, and topped with crunchy nuts, whipped cream, and a classic maraschino cherry. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth in under an hour.
Ingredients
Brownie Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
Sundae Toppings
- 4 scoops vanilla ice cream
- ¼ cup caramel sauce
- ¼ cup chocolate sauce
- ¼ cup chopped nuts (optional)
- ½ cup whipped cream
- 4 maraschino cherries
Instructions
- Preheat & Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together melted unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and well combined.
- Add Eggs & Vanilla: Whisk in the eggs one at a time along with the vanilla extract until the mixture is fully blended and slightly thickened.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Sift together the unsweetened cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder, then gently fold into the wet mixture until a thick, consistent batter forms.
- Bake Brownies: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool & Cut: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before cutting into squares, which will serve as the base for the sundaes.
- Assemble Sundae: Place one brownie square into each serving bowl. Top each with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Drizzle Sauces: Generously pour caramel sauce and chocolate sauce over the ice cream and brownie base for maximum flavor.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle chopped nuts over the sundae for an optional crunchy texture, then add a dollop of whipped cream on top.
- Garnish & Serve: Finish each sundae with a maraschino cherry and serve immediately to enjoy the warm brownie with melting ice cream combination.
Notes
- Ensure brownies are completely cooled before assembling to prevent the ice cream from melting too quickly.
- Chopped nuts are optional but add a delightful crunch to the sundae.
- Use high-quality vanilla ice cream and sauces for the best flavor.
- For gluten-free options, substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blends.
- To save time, you can prepare the brownies a day ahead and store them tightly covered.
