When it comes to summer there is nothing that beats the heat more than a simple yet delicious ice cream sundae.  Every summer, we have a tradition to have ice cream for dinner at least once.  Yes, that’s right… we skip everything healthy for the evening, load up in the car and drive to our favorite ice cream parlor.  The kids are allowed to get anything they like… milkshakes, smoothies, or my favorite ice cream sundaes. Of course they tend to get a little carried away and end up with more toppings then they have ice cream.  But as I was thinking of our upcoming ice cream dinner, I kept thinking, why don’t we include our friends and neighbors and have an ice cream party for our dinner this summer.  So here, it is; tips and tricks for an ultimate ice cream sundae party.

Ice Cream: Stick to one flavor and keep the prep work to a minimum. Vanilla is key element; no matter what toppings and syrups you decide to use, EVERYTHING goes with Vanilla.  Use a large galvanized wash tub filled with ice to nest your ice cream, and keep it cold.

Syrups: Of course you need the classics; chocolate, caramel, & strawberry.  But don’t be scared to throw in a few unique flavors too.  A few of my favorites are Raspberry sauce, peanut butter sauce, and warmed Nutella.

Add a touch of homemade goodness with this simple recipe.

Homemade Hot fudge:

• 16 oz. Chocolate syrup
• 14 oz. can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 stick butter

1. Melt chocolate, milk, and butter in microwave or double boiler.
2. Whisking frequently.
3. Store leftovers in an airtight container under refrigeration. Heat in microwave to use.

Topping Challenge: This is where to fun for your guests comes in.  On your invitations challenge your guest to bring the most unique AND delicious toppings they can think of. (Presentation counts) … of course it must be something they would be willing to eat themselves. Some suggestions might be caramelized bananas, chocolate covered coffee beans, or melted marshmallows. Element of Fun: This will have your guests coming back for more, and more. And provide plenty of conversation pieces. Plus a little friendly competition is always fun. At the end of the party, have prizes for the most unique, most beautiful presentation, & best overall. (This can be done by ballot, a rising of hands, or judges)  Prizes might be a set of beautiful glass sundae dishes, fun ice cream scoop, or gift card to local ice cream parlor.

Serve it up: Paper Cups in cute designs make things easy, but also keep it festive.  Make sure to think outside the box, but keep it budget friendly.