This Summer’s All About Savory Sundaes—Here’s Why You’ll Actually Crave Them

Sundaes Are Going Savory, and We’re Here for It

Ice cream is no longer just for sweet tooths. This summer, dessert is going rogue—savory sundaes are stepping into the spotlight, and they’re rewriting the rules of what a sundae can be. Yes, that scoop of vanilla might still make an appearance, but now it’s likely to be topped with chili crisp, a drizzle of balsamic glaze, or even a handful of kettle-cooked chips.

At first glance, it sounds like culinary chaos. But it makes perfect sense. We're in a food era that celebrates bold contrast: sweet and salty, creamy and crunchy, comfort food with a twist. And nothing says “twist” like swapping sprinkles for smoked paprika or fudge sauce for olive tapenade.

Why the Shift?

Savory sundaes aren’t just a gimmick—they’re a reflection of how we eat now. Think of the viral success of things like hot honey on pizza or salted caramel everything. People want layers of flavor, not just sugar highs. It’s also about slowing down and savoring, rather than mindlessly spooning through a sugar bomb.

Plus, they’re surprisingly refreshing. Salt can enhance the creaminess of ice cream, and acidic or umami-rich toppings cut through richness in a way that leaves you craving another bite—not crashing on your couch.

Build-Your-Own: Unexpected Combos to Try

Whether you're serving guests at a backyard dinner party or just want to spice up your Wednesday night snack, these combos will win over skeptics:

The Caprese Sundae

• Base: Sweet cream or mascarpone ice cream

• Toppings: Cherry tomato confit, balsamic reduction, fresh basil, cracked black pepper

• Bonus: A shard of crispy prosciutto

The BBQ Crunch Sundae

• Base: Corn or sweet potato ice cream

• Toppings: Crushed BBQ chips, pickled red onions, smoky aioli, scallions

• Bonus: A dash of hot sauce for heat lovers

The Everything Bagel Sundae

• Base: Cream cheese or plain vanilla

• Toppings: Everything bagel seasoning, scallion curls, sesame oil drizzle, toasted breadcrumbs

• Bonus: Serve with a warm bagel chip

The Spicy Thai Sundae

• Base: Coconut milk ice cream

• Toppings: Chili crisp, crushed peanuts, cilantro, lime zest

• Bonus: A small drizzle of fish sauce (trust—it’s magic in moderation)

So this summer, ditch the maraschino cherry and take your sundae on a savory detour. It’s unexpected, it’s bold, and it’s absolutely what your tastebuds didn’t know they needed.

Just one word of advice: try before you judge! One bite in, you might just be a believer.