Pin
Ice Cream Nachos are the fastest way to turn an ordinary night into a celebration Whether it is a birthday sleepover or a last minute movie night this crowd pleaser has been a huge hit in my house for years and the best part is everyone can get in on the fun
When I served these at my daughters birthday last year every kid was instantly obsessed and even grownups kept sneaking extra bites
Ingredients
- Waffle cones: They are crisp sweet and hold up well under the ice cream look for cones with no cracks for the best nacho chips
- Vanilla ice cream: The classic base that balances the sweetness of the toppings use real vanilla with flecks if possible
- Chocolate ice cream: Deep rich and indulgent choose top quality for an intense chocolate bite
- Black raspberry ice cream: Adds a burst of tang and color choose brands with real berry pieces for the best flavor
- Sprinkles ice cream: Brings a festive color and crunch any fun flavor with colorful bits works
- Chocolate sauce: For an extra decadent drizzle use one with a glossy finish
- Caramel sauce: Lends buttery sweet complexity go for salted caramel for a sophisticated twist
- Whipped cream: Fluffy and light pick real cream over oil based toppings
- Sliced banana: Adds fruity freshness choose bananas just ripe to avoid mushiness
- Maraschino cherries: A retro sundae classic they bring color and a pop of flavor get cherries that are bright and firm
- Rainbow sprinkles: Extra color and crunch use classic or chocolate jimmies for variety
Step by Step Instructions
- Prepare the Nacho Chips:
- Break each waffle cone into three or four rough pieces and spread them across a large twelve inch platter making sure to slightly overlap for a full base
- Scoop the Ice Cream:
- Using an ice cream scoop space out generous half cup scoops of vanilla chocolate black raspberry and sprinkles ice cream across the tray spreading the flavors so every bite is a surprise
- Drizzle the Sauces:
- Pour chocolate sauce and caramel sauce back and forth over the ice cream and cone pieces so you get a little in every bite
- Add the Toppings:
- Dollop whipped cream over the top then arrange thinly sliced banana pieces scattered evenly Place maraschino cherries on top and finish with a shower of rainbow sprinkles for a festive look
- Serve Immediately:
- Bring the platter to the table and serve right away to catch that perfect just scooped texture it is pure joy to dig in with friends or family
Pin
My favorite part is loading up the cherries and watching my family race to claim their favorites The first time we tried this everyone debated the perfect ratio of waffle cone to ice cream to topping It ended in laughter and a little friendly competition which is what dessert is all about
Storage Tips
Ice Cream Nachos are best eaten right away because the cones and toppings start to soften after a few minutes If you have leftovers quickly scoop off any remaining ice cream and toppings into a bowl and freeze separately The cones will not stay crisp after mixing with the ice cream but make a tasty sweet crumble topping later
Ingredient Substitutions
Use sugar cones or cinnamon pita chips if you do not have waffle cones For dairy free or vegan options choose plant based ice creams and coconut whipped topping Nut butters or strawberry sauce can swap in for caramel or chocolate drizzle When berries are in season skip the cherries and use fresh fruit
Pin
Serving Suggestions
Ice Cream Nachos are fun for parties and celebrations Lay out bowls of extra toppings like mini chocolate chips crushed Oreos or salty nuts and let everyone build their own Try serving with tiny spoons or even small tongs so guests can mix and match flavors easily
Cultural and Historical Context
Nachos trust their roots to Mexican snacks but this frozen twist transforms the savory snack into a festive dessert Waffle cones echo classic American ice cream parlor treats and the platter style encourages sharing bringing everyone together for a simple joyful tradition
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How do I prevent the waffle cones from getting soggy?
Serve the nachos immediately after assembly to keep the waffle cones crisp. Avoid letting the ice cream sit for too long on the cones before serving.
- → Can I use different ice cream flavors?
Yes, customize with your favorite ice cream varieties to suit tastes and dietary preferences.
- → What other toppings can I add?
Feel free to include crushed nuts, fresh berries, mini chocolate chips, or butterscotch sauce as extra toppings.
- → Is this treat suitable for making ahead?
No, it is best enjoyed immediately to maintain the crispness of the waffle cone pieces.
- → Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute with dairy-free ice cream, whipped topping, and use vegan cones for a plant-based version.