Caramel Mocha Sundae Recipe

 

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This decadent Caramel Mocha Sundae combines rich coffee flavors with buttery caramel and chocolate for an adult twist on the classic ice cream treat. It's inspired by mocha lattes and recipes like coffee-caramel sundaes—perfect for coffee lovers! Easy to assemble with store-bought ingredients or go homemade for extra indulgence.

Serves: 2 (easily scalable)

Prep time: 10 minutes (plus any sauce-making time)

Ingredients

• 4-6 scoops coffee ice cream (or mocha ice cream for extra chocolate kick)
• 2-3 scoops vanilla or chocolate ice cream (for layering variety)
• 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade salted caramel)
• 1/4 cup hot fudge or chocolate sauce
• Whipped cream (fresh or canned)

Optional add-ins:

• Chopped nuts (pecans or almonds for crunch)
• Crushed chocolate macaroons or espresso beans
• A shot of espresso (poured hot over the top for an affogato-style twist)
• Maraschino cherry or chocolate shavings for garnish

Quick Homemade Coffee-Caramel Sauce (Optional Upgrade)

For a mocha boost, make this simple sauce (adapted from classic recipes):

• 1 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee (or espresso)
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Pinch of sea salt
• In a saucepan, melt sugar over medium heat until amber (don't stir too much—swirl the pan).
• Carefully add warm coffee (it will bubble!), then butter and cream.
• Stir until smooth; add salt. Cool slightly before using.

Assembly Instructions

In tall sundae glasses or bowls, start with a drizzle of caramel sauce at the bottom.

• Add 1-2 scoops of coffee ice cream.
• Drizzle with hot fudge/chocolate sauce and more caramel.
• Layer with vanilla or chocolate ice cream.
• Repeat layers, finishing with scoops on top.
• Generously drizzle warm caramel (or coffee-caramel sauce) and hot fudge.
• Top with whipped cream, nuts, crushed espresso beans, and a cherry.
• For extra flair: Pour a hot espresso shot over the top just before serving.

Dig in immediately—this one's all about the melty, gooey contrast of cold ice cream and warm sauces.