The fusion of a decadent brownie and creamy ice cream is a culinary masterpiece that has become a favorite dessert across the globe. But what do we actually call this delightful combination? While it goes by several names, including sizzling brownie, brownie sundae, and brownie affogato, this dessert is more than just a brownie topped with ice cream—it’s an experience that combines contrasting temperatures and textures to create something truly irresistible.
In this article, we will explore the most popular names for this dessert, the ingredients used, the best pairings of ice cream with brownies, and step-by-step guides to make each version at home. We’ll also provide FAQs and answer some of the most common questions people have about this indulgent dessert. Let’s dive into the world of brownies and ice cream!
What Do You Call Brownie with Ice Cream?
Brownies and ice cream are a classic pairing, and this combination has earned a variety of names depending on how it’s served and where you’re enjoying it. Here are some of the most common terms used for this treat:
- Brownie Sundae: The most widely recognized name for a brownie and ice cream combination. A brownie sundae typically includes a warm brownie, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, hot fudge sauce, whipped cream, nuts, and a cherry on top.
- Sizzling Brownie: This unique version of the dessert is popular in parts of Asia, particularly in India. A sizzling brownie is served on a hot cast-iron plate, often with melted chocolate drizzled over it. The ice cream melts as it touches the hot plate, creating a sizzling effect that adds to the sensory appeal of the dessert.
- Brownie Affogato: This Italian-inspired version of the dessert combines a brownie with ice cream and a shot of hot espresso. The bitter espresso offsets the sweetness of the brownie and ice cream, creating a harmonious flavor profile.
How to Make the Perfect Brownie and Ice Cream Combo
While this dessert may seem simple, there are a few key ingredients and steps to follow to ensure you get the perfect combination of warm and cold, soft and crunchy. Here’s a basic recipe to get you started on making a classic brownie sundae.
Ingredients for a Classic Brownie Sundae
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Brownie (store-bought or homemade) | 1 piece |
| Vanilla Ice Cream | 1 scoop |
| Hot Fudge Sauce | 2 tablespoons |
| Caramel Sauce | 2 tablespoons |
| Whipped Cream | Optional |
| Chopped Nuts | 1 tablespoon |
| Cherry (for garnish) | 1 piece |
Instructions
- Prepare the Brownie: Warm your brownie slightly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in the oven if you prefer a crispier edge.
- Add Ice Cream: Place a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream on top of the warm brownie.
- Drizzle with Sauce: Pour hot fudge or caramel sauce over the ice cream.
- Add Toppings: Top with whipped cream, chopped nuts, and a cherry for garnish.
- Serve: Serve immediately while the brownie is still warm and the ice cream begins to melt over it.
For a more dramatic presentation, try making a sizzling brownie using a hot cast-iron skillet. The brownie is placed on the sizzling plate, and the ice cream is added at the last moment. The heat from the plate causes the ice cream to melt and the chocolate to bubble, making it a visual treat as well as a delicious one.
Types of Brownie and Ice Cream Combinations
1. The Classic Brownie Sundae
This is the version you’ll find at most ice cream parlors or restaurants. A classic brownie sundae consists of a warm brownie, one or more scoops of ice cream, and a variety of toppings. The contrast between the warm, dense brownie and the cold, creamy ice cream makes this dessert unforgettable.
- Key Ingredients: Brownie, vanilla ice cream, hot fudge, whipped cream, nuts, and a cherry.
- Optional Variations: Add fruit such as strawberries or bananas to give the sundae a fresh twist. Alternatively, substitute the vanilla ice cream with chocolate or caramel ice cream.
2. The Sizzling Brownie
The sizzling brownie takes this dessert to the next level. The brownie is placed on a hot skillet or sizzler plate, and the heat causes the ice cream to melt and the chocolate to bubble, creating a sizzling sound that adds to the experience. This dessert is especially popular in Indian restaurants, where it is often served with a side of chocolate sauce or caramel.
- Key Ingredients: Brownie, vanilla ice cream, and hot fudge or chocolate syrup.
- Why It’s Special: The sizzling effect makes it both a visual and sensory experience, unlike the classic sundae.
3. The Brownie Affogato
A more sophisticated take on the brownie and ice cream combination is the brownie affogato. This Italian-inspired dessert features a brownie served with a scoop of ice cream and a shot of espresso poured over the top. The combination of hot espresso, cold ice cream, and rich brownie creates an explosion of flavors in every bite.
- Key Ingredients: Brownie, ice cream, espresso.
- Best Served With: Darker ice creams such as coffee or chocolate complement the espresso flavor perfectly.
Best Ice Cream Flavors to Pair with Brownies
Choosing the right ice cream flavor can make or break your brownie and ice cream combination. While vanilla is the most popular choice, there are several other flavors that pair well with the richness of a chocolate brownie. Here’s a list of some top options:
1. Vanilla Ice Cream
- Why It Works: The creamy, neutral flavor of vanilla provides the perfect contrast to the intense richness of a fudge brownie. This is the go-to choice for most brownie sundaes.
2. Salted Caramel Ice Cream
- Why It Works: The combination of sweet and salty flavors in salted caramel ice cream creates a complex taste when paired with a brownie. The smooth, buttery texture of the caramel balances the richness of the brownie.
3. Coffee Ice Cream
- Why It Works: Coffee ice cream adds a slightly bitter edge that complements the sweetness of the brownie, making it a sophisticated option. This is an excellent choice for an affogato-style brownie dessert.
4. Chocolate Ice Cream
- Why It Works: Double the chocolate, double the indulgence. Pairing chocolate ice cream with a chocolate brownie creates an ultra-rich, decadent dessert. However, it’s best to balance this with a lighter topping like whipped cream.
5. Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream
- Why It Works: For those who enjoy a refreshing contrast to the brownie, mint chocolate chip ice cream offers a cool and invigorating twist. The hint of mint cuts through the richness of the brownie, while the chocolate chips add a delightful crunch.
Toppings and Garnishes for Brownie and Ice Cream
Once you have your brownie and ice cream, the next step is adding toppings and garnishes to elevate the dessert. The key to a great brownie sundae or sizzling brownie lies in the extras. Here are some of the most popular options:
1. Hot Fudge or Chocolate Syrup
The classic choice for drizzling over your brownie sundae, hot fudge adds a rich, velvety chocolate layer that melts into the ice cream. Chocolate syrup is a lighter alternative if you prefer a less intense chocolate flavor.
2. Caramel Sauce
For those who prefer a sweeter, buttery topping, caramel sauce is an excellent alternative to hot fudge. It pairs especially well with vanilla or salted caramel ice cream.
3. Whipped Cream
Whipped cream adds a light and fluffy texture to balance the density of the brownie and the richness of the ice cream. It’s a must-have topping for any sundae.
4. Chopped Nuts
Chopped nuts such as walnuts, pecans, or almonds provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the soft, creamy texture of the brownie and ice cream.
5. Sprinkles
Sprinkles add a fun and colorful element to your dessert. While they don’t add much in terms of flavor, they enhance the visual appeal and are especially popular with children.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What Is the Dessert Called When You Put Ice Cream on a Brownie?
This dessert is most commonly known as a brownie sundae. However, if it’s served on a hot skillet, it is referred to as a sizzling brownie. When combined with espresso, it’s called a brownie affogato.
What Ice Cream Goes Best with Brownies?
The most popular ice cream flavor to pair with brownies is vanilla, but other excellent choices include salted caramel, coffee, chocolate, and mint chocolate chip.
Can You Freeze Brownie and Ice Cream Together?
Yes, but it’s better to freeze the brownie separately and add the ice cream when ready to serve. This prevents the ice cream from becoming icy and the brownie from losing its texture.
What is a Sizzling Brownie?
A sizzling brownie is a brownie served on a hot cast-iron plate with a scoop of ice cream on top. The heat from the plate causes the ice cream to melt, creating a sizzling effect.
Conclusion
Whether you prefer a classic brownie sundae or a dramatic sizzling brownie, this dessert offers endless ways to indulge in the rich, chocolatey goodness of a brownie with the cold, creamy delight of ice cream. The wide variety of toppings, sauces, and ice cream flavors means you can customize your dessert to your liking, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.