Go Back

DIY Sundae Bar Station

A complete guide to setting up a self-serve sundae bar with homemade hot fudge, caramel sauce, and fresh toppings.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pint heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup light corn syrup
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
  • 1/2 cup mini marshmallows
  • 1/2 cup chocolate chips
  • 1/2 cup sprinkles
  • 1/2 cup crushed graham crackers
  • 1/2 cup maraschino cherries drained
  • 8 cups vanilla ice cream or assorted flavors

Equipment

  • small saucepan
  • whisk
  • glass bowls
  • small ladles or spoons
  • ice cream scoop
  • baking sheet (for nuts)
  • parchment paper

Method
 

  1. Make hot fudge sauce: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine heavy cream, milk, granulated sugar, butter, cocoa powder, vanilla, and salt. Whisk constantly until mixture thickens and bubbles gently, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat. It will thicken more as it cools.
  2. Make caramel sauce: In a separate saucepan over medium heat, whisk together brown sugar, corn syrup, water, and baking soda. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer without stirring for 4 minutes until deep amber. Remove from heat, carefully stir in vanilla (it will bubble up). Let cool slightly.
  3. Toast nuts: Spread chopped nuts on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake at 350°F for 5-7 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned. Let cool.
  4. Set up station: Arrange ice cream in a large bowl or individual scoops in a chilled dish. Place hot fudge and caramel in separate small bowls. Arrange all toppings in individual glass bowls with small spoons.
  5. Serve: Let guests scoop their own ice cream, then drizzle sauces and add toppings as desired.

Notes

Store leftover sauces in airtight jars in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Reheat gently in a saucepan or microwave. For a dairy-free option, use coconut cream and dairy-free chocolate. For nut-free, skip the toasted nuts and add extra sprinkles or crushed cookies. Always use a clean scoop for each ice cream flavor to avoid cross-contamination.