Strawberry Sundae

Indulge in a classic Strawberry Sundae featuring rich vanilla ice cream topped with homemade strawberry sauce, fresh fruit, and whipped cream. This delightful dessert is perfect for warm days and brings a burst of flavor to any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Strawberry Sauce:

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Sundae:

• 4 cups vanilla ice cream
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
• Whipped cream
• Crushed nuts (optional)
• Fresh mint leaves (for garnish)

Directions

1. Make the Strawberry Sauce: In a medium saucepan, combine the sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries break down and the mixture thickens, about 10-15 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool; the sauce will continue to thicken as it cools.
2. Assemble the Sundae: Scoop the vanilla ice cream into serving bowls or glasses. Top with fresh strawberry slices and a generous drizzle of strawberry sauce. Add a dollop of whipped cream on top, sprinkle with crushed nuts if desired, and garnish with fresh mint leaves.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 and has a prep time of 10 minutes, with a cook time of 15 minutes, resulting in a total time of approximately 25 minutes.

Variations

• Ice Cream Flavors: Substitute vanilla ice cream with chocolate or strawberry ice cream for a twist.
• Toppings: Try adding chocolate syrup, sprinkles, or caramel sauce for extra flavor.
• Dairy-Free: Use coconut or almond milk ice cream for a dairy-free option.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover strawberry sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat gently on the stove before serving if desired.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use frozen strawberries?
   Yes, but fresh strawberries yield a better sauce texture.
2. How can I make it less sweet?
   Reduce the amount of sugar in the sauce to your taste.
3. What can I use instead of lemon juice?
   Lime juice works well as a substitute.
4. Is this recipe gluten-free?
   Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
5. How do I make it vegan?
   Use a plant-based ice cream and check that the sugar is vegan-friendly.
6. Can I add other fruits?
   Absolutely! Bananas, blueberries, or raspberries make great additions.
7. What nuts work best?
   Chopped pecans or almonds are excellent choices.
8. How do I prevent the ice cream from melting too quickly?
   Serve the sundae in chilled bowls to help keep it cool longer.
9. Can I prepare the sundae in advance?
   It’s best to assemble just before serving to maintain the texture.
10. What is the calorie count for each serving?
    Approximately 350 kcal per serving, but this can vary based on toppings.

Conclusion

The Strawberry Sundae is a delightful dessert that combines creamy ice cream with fresh flavors and textures. Simple to prepare yet utterly satisfying, it’s a perfect treat for any occasion, bringing a taste of summer to your table. Enjoy the sweetness and freshness in every bite!

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