Sweet, Salty, and Everything in Between
Sure, your creamy, frozen scoop is tasty enough on its own, but who eats ice cream with nothing on top? From sprinkles to crushed nuts, you've heard all about the classic pairings, and likely have your own favorites. But have you ever tried drizzling hot sauce or olive oil over your sweet treat? Bet you haven't. Whether you're hunting for surprising flavor combos or sticking to the tried-and-true, here are 10 unconventional ice cream toppings to try—and 10 delicious classics that always hit the spot.
1. Candied Bacon Bits
Sure, candied bacon might be unconventional, but it tastes as delicious as it sounds. There is, after all, candy bacon ice cream as a flavor! To make it even more decadent, you can drizzle extra maple syrup or honey over your frozen dessert, though we think the bacon bits will do the trick beautifully on their own.
2. Granola
For another breakfast option, why not top your ice cream with granola? If it works well with yogurt, it's no surprise it pairs deliciously with a frozen treat. Plus, you get the best of both worlds: flavor and that distinct crunchy texture.
3. Hot Sauce
We know—this one might sound a little outrageous and maybe even too out there. But trust us: don't knock it 'til you try it. Sweet and spicy mellows each other out wonderfully, so this flavor pairing is bound to make your taste buds sing.
4. Wasabi Peas
Looking for more spice? Try wasabi peas! Sure, your eyes might tear up as you enjoy your dessert, but sometimes, good things are worth crying over. For a better mouthfeel, you might prefer crushing them up first, but leaving them whole also gives you that extra crunch.
5. Popcorn
You can't go wrong with two good things, so popcorn and ice cream (salty, crunchy, and sweet?) is bound to be a delicious pairing. You can crush up any flavor you'd like, but caramel popcorn is definitely our favorite pick.
6. Potato Chips
If you've ever dipped your French fries in ice cream, you know exactly how delicious potato and a frozen, creamy dessert taste together. You can either choose to scoop your sweet treat up with a chip, or crush your crisps up to sprinkle over your sundae.
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7. Olive Oil
Olive oil isn't just for cooking and dressing salads! For a "healthier" topping, drizzle this kitchen favorite over your scoop and prepare to be blown away. If you're looking for an extra crunch, add a handful or two of crushed or whole nuts.
8. Balsamic Glaze
Another salad dressing, you say? Well, balsamic glaze surely won't disappoint! Thicker, tangier, and sweeter than regular balsamic vinegar, the taste of this dark syrup poured over cold, creamy ice cream is unparalleled. For something a little extra, add some berries.
9. Matcha Powder
If you've ever had Japanese desserts (which, you probably have), then this one shouldn't surprise you in the least. Bittersweet, earthy, with notes of umami, sprinkling matcha powder over your scoop is probably the next best thing to having actual green tea ice cream.
10. Ground Espresso
If coffee is more your style, try sprinkling ground espresso over your frozen treat. You can't go wrong with caffeine and dairy, after all, so this slightly unconventional pairing is sure to top your list of favorite ice cream toppings. Make sure to grind your powder extra fine!
Not ready to try toppings that are too out there? We get it, though: sometimes, the tried-and-true is the best. Here are 10 classics you might prefer to stick with:
1. Hot Fudge
What's better than pouring hot fudge over a cold, creamy treat? Not much else, that's for sure! Warm, gooey, and oh-so-chocolatey, there's a reason why this classic ice cream topping has stayed a favorite for ages, and it's simply because it works.
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2. Sprinkles
Usually, hot fudge isn't where people stop: to elevate your ice cream even more, sprinkles are an absolute must. Not only are these tiny pieces colorful and fun, but they're also sweet, have a bite to them, and give your treat a playful texture.
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3. Crushed Nuts
Unless you're not a fan, no one can say no to crushed nuts on a cold scoop! It should come as no surprise that this is another classic ice cream topping, given its crunch and diverse flavor profile, which lend sweet, earthy, and—of course—nutty notes. If this doesn't make your mouth water, we don't know what would.
4. Caramel Sauce
Not a fan of hot fudge? That's okay—just swap it for caramel sauce! Rich, thick, and buttery smooth, caramel and ice cream are a match made in heaven. While you can add some crushed nuts for an extra layer of texture, we think this delicious sauce easily steals the show and needs no partner.
5. Brownie Bits
Hot fudge in the form of brownie bits? Yes, please! This gooey chocolate dessert is tasty enough on its own, but when paired with ice cream, it only gets more decadent. (If you're a big chocolate fan, take our tip and top your scoop with hot fudge and brownie bits.)
6. Crushed Oreos
Because we can never get enough of chocolate, why not add some crushed Oreos to your scoop for an instant cookies and cream upgrade? Better yet, throw in those brownie bits as well if you have them sitting around for the ultimate chocolate sundae.
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7. Marshmallows
Soft, plush, and sweet, marshmallows aren't just the perfect topping for a steaming cup of hot cocoa in the colder months—they also make a classic pairing with ice cream. You might want to use a sauce, like hot fudge or caramel, to really marry the flavors together, but you can't go wrong either way.
8. Whipped Cream
For something quick, simple, but still delicious? Whipped cream, of course! Top it off with a maraschino cherry or two, and you've got yourself the picture-perfect sundae you always see served up in everyone's favorite diner.
9. Chocolate Chips
Yup—we weren't done just yet with the chocolate. If you're looking for something less chewy and decadent than brownie bits or something with less crunch than Oreos, then chocolate chips are your best friend. Top with a small or generous handful, then drizzle caramel sauce over your dessert for a sweet pairing.
10. Peanut Butter Drizzle
We saved the best for last, of course. If you're a big peanut butter and chocolate fan, you might want to mix the two together, but if you're nuts for, well, nuts, then this sauce pairs best with crushed nuts, or—our favorite—Reese's Pieces.
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