10 Vanilla Ice Cream Dessert Recipes
Vanilla ice cream is a timeless classic, but it becomes even more exciting when transformed into decadent desserts. Whether you’re looking for a simple yet elegant treat or an indulgent masterpiece, these 10 Vanilla Ice Cream Dessert Recipes will take your love for vanilla ice cream to the next level. From sundaes to baked delights, these recipes blend rich flavors and textures for a perfect dessert experience.
Below are five delightful vanilla ice cream dessert recipes to start with:
1. Classic Vanilla Ice Cream Sundae

A simple yet satisfying dessert topped with rich chocolate sauce, crunchy nuts, and a cherry on top.
Ingredients:
- 2 scoops vanilla ice cream
- 2 tablespoons chocolate syrup
- 1 tablespoon chopped nuts (almonds, pecans, or peanuts)
- 1 cherry
- Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions:
- Place two scoops of vanilla ice cream in a dessert bowl or glass.
- Drizzle with chocolate syrup.
- Sprinkle chopped nuts over the top.
- Add a generous dollop of whipped cream if desired.
- Finish with a cherry on top and serve immediately.
2. Vanilla Ice Cream with Caramelized Bananas

Creamy vanilla ice cream meets warm, caramelized bananas in this heavenly dessert.
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe bananas, sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 scoops vanilla ice cream
Instructions:
- Melt butter in a pan over medium heat.
- Add brown sugar and cinnamon, stirring until combined.
- Add sliced bananas and cook for 2-3 minutes until caramelized.
- Serve the warm bananas over vanilla ice cream and enjoy immediately.
3. Vanilla Ice Cream Brownie Sandwiches

Chewy brownies paired with creamy vanilla ice cream make the ultimate handheld dessert.
Ingredients:
- 2 large brownies, cut into squares
- 2 scoops vanilla ice cream
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions:
- Place a scoop of vanilla ice cream between two brownie squares.
- Gently press the brownies together to form a sandwich.
- Roll the edges in mini chocolate chips for extra crunch.
- Freeze for 15 minutes before serving or enjoy immediately.
4. Vanilla Ice Cream Affogato

A sophisticated Italian dessert that combines creamy vanilla ice cream with bold espresso.
Ingredients:
- 2 scoops vanilla ice cream
- 1 shot of freshly brewed espresso
- 1 teaspoon grated dark chocolate (optional)
Instructions:
- Place vanilla ice cream scoops in a small serving bowl or cup.
- Pour a hot shot of espresso over the ice cream.
- Sprinkle with grated dark chocolate for an extra touch.
- Serve immediately before the ice cream fully melts into the coffee.
5. Vanilla Ice Cream Apple Crisp

Warm cinnamon-spiced apples topped with a crunchy oat topping and served with creamy vanilla ice cream.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups peeled and sliced apples
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup oats
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 scoop vanilla ice cream
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Toss apples with sugar and cinnamon, then place in a small baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix oats and melted butter, then sprinkle over the apples.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until the topping is golden brown.
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.
6. Vanilla Ice Cream Cookie Sandwiches

A childhood favorite, these ice cream cookie sandwiches are the perfect mix of crunchy and creamy.
Ingredients:
- 4 chocolate chip cookies (or your favorite cookies)
- 2 scoops vanilla ice cream
- 1/4 cup rainbow sprinkles or mini chocolate chips
Instructions:
- Place a scoop of vanilla ice cream onto the flat side of one cookie.
- Top with another cookie and gently press together to form a sandwich.
- Roll the edges in sprinkles or mini chocolate chips for extra texture.
- Freeze for 15 minutes before serving or enjoy immediately.
7. Vanilla Ice Cream Waffle Delight

A crispy, golden waffle paired with creamy vanilla ice cream and drizzled with chocolate syrup.
Ingredients:
- 1 Belgian waffle (freshly made or store-bought)
- 2 scoops vanilla ice cream
- 2 tablespoons chocolate syrup
- 1 tablespoon crushed nuts or whipped cream (optional)
Instructions:
- Warm the waffle and place it on a serving plate.
- Add two scoops of vanilla ice cream on top.
- Drizzle with chocolate syrup and sprinkle with crushed nuts or whipped cream.
- Serve immediately while the waffle is warm and crispy.
8. Vanilla Ice Cream with Mixed Berry Compote

Sweet and tangy berries cooked to perfection make a delicious topping for creamy vanilla ice cream.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
- 2 scoops vanilla ice cream
Instructions:
- In a small saucepan, heat mixed berries, sugar, and lemon juice over medium heat.
- Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the berries break down into a compote.
- Let it cool slightly, then spoon over vanilla ice cream.
- Serve immediately for a warm and cold contrast.
9. Vanilla Ice Cream S’mores Bowl

All the flavors of a campfire s’more, served in a delicious ice cream dessert.
Ingredients:
- 2 scoops vanilla ice cream
- 2 tablespoons crushed graham crackers
- 2 tablespoons mini marshmallows
- 2 tablespoons melted chocolate
Instructions:
- In a serving bowl, add two scoops of vanilla ice cream.
- Sprinkle with crushed graham crackers and mini marshmallows.
- Drizzle melted chocolate over the top.
- Enjoy immediately for a delicious twist on a classic s’more!
10. Vanilla Ice Cream Milkshake

A thick, creamy milkshake that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 2 scoops vanilla ice cream
- 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
- Whipped cream and a cherry for garnish
Instructions:
- Blend vanilla ice cream, milk, and sugar in a blender until smooth.
- Pour into a tall glass.
- Top with whipped cream and a cherry for extra indulgence.
- Serve immediately with a straw!