There are some desserts that come and go, and then there are those that are somehow timeless – and the ice cream sundae is one of those. With its layers of creamy ice cream, rich sauces and colourful toppings, this classic treat has been enjoyed for generations and continues to win over new fans every day.
If you’ve ever wondered exactly what an ice cream sundae is and why it has such a loyal following, you’re in the right place.
In today’s article, we’ll explore its sweet history, enduring appeal and how Geláre serves up some of the most irresistible sundaes in town.
What Is An Ice Cream Sundae? Here’s The Scoop!
An ice cream sundae is a layered dessert made with one or more scoops of ice cream, topped with sauces such as chocolate, caramel or strawberry, and finished with whipped cream, nuts, fruit and often a cherry on top.
Its appeal comes from how easily it can be personalised. Some people stick to the classic vanilla and hot fudge, while others choose bold flavours and creative toppings. Whether served in a tall glass, a wide bowl or on top of a warm waffle, the sundae has secured its place as one of the most loved desserts across generations.
The Surprising Origins Of The Ice Cream Sundae
The story of the ice cream sundae starts in the late 1800s in the United States with a simple twist on tradition. At the time, Blue Laws banned the sale of soda drinks on Sundays. Soda fountain bars, famous for their ice cream sodas, therefore had to come up with an alternative. Their solution was to serve scoops of ice cream topped with syrup in a dish instead of in a glass of fizzy drink. The “Sunday” treat caught on quickly and before long, the name evolved into “sundae.”
From there, it spread from small-town soda fountains to busy city diners and ice cream parlours. It was inexpensive, easy to make and could be adapted to suit any taste. That winning mix of simplicity and indulgence helped it gain fans around the world. Today, it’s a fixture on menus everywhere, from nostalgic diners to modern cafés like Geláre.
Why Ice Cream Sundaes Are So Popular
The ice cream sundae has remained a favourite for decades and there are many reasons it continues to stand out. One of the biggest is its visual appeal. With scoops of ice cream, glossy sauces, clouds of whipped cream and colourful toppings, it’s an impressive dessert that looks as good as it tastes and is perfect for sharing on social media.
It’s also a nostalgic comfort food. For many people, sundaes bring back memories of birthday parties, weekend treats and family trips to the local café. It’s that sense of familiarity that makes them just as appealing to adults as they are to children.
Sundaes are wonderfully versatile. You can order one to enjoy on your own as a little indulgence or you can choose a larger serve to share with friends or family so everyone gets a taste. And while they are the perfect way to cool down on a warm day, they remain just as enjoyable throughout the cooler months, in one of Geláre’s cosy cafes.
Classic Vs Creative — What Goes Into A Sundae?
Every sundae starts with a few simple elements, yet it can be as traditional or as adventurous as you like, with each combination offering its own unique charm.
Classic Components
A traditional sundae usually starts with vanilla ice cream topped with chocolate fudge or caramel sauce. It’s then finished with a swirl of whipped cream and a cherry, creating a flavour combination that has stood the test of time. A sprinkle of nuts or colourful sprinkles adds texture and completes the look of this timeless treat.
Modern Twists
For those who enjoy experimenting, contemporary sundaes can take on almost any flavour profile. Brownie chunks bring a rich chocolate bite, while cookie dough adds a chewy and indulgent surprise. A drizzle of Nutella or a layer of Biscoff spread creates an extra hit of sweetness, and combining multiple ice cream flavours allows you to enjoy a layered taste experience.
Toppings Galore
Toppings are where your creativity can truly shine. Crushed nuts for crunch, sprinkles bring colour and waffle pieces create a fun contrast of warm and cold. Fresh berries, shredded coconut and mini marshmallows are also great for adding flavour and making your sundae truly memorable.
For inspiration, take a look at our ice cream and sundaes menu and start planning your own ultimate dessert.
Sundaes At Geláre — The Best Ice Cream Perth Has To Offer
When it comes to ice cream in Perth, Geláre has built a reputation for quality, variety and generous portions. Our sundaes are made with our premium ice cream in a wide range of flavours, from classic vanilla and decadent chocolate to more bold choices like Cappuccino or Apple Pie Crunch. Every scoop is creamy, full of flavour and perfect for building your ideal sundae.
We offer classic combinations for those who love tradition, as well as seasonal specials for anyone looking to try something new. Whether you prefer a simple hot fudge sundae or a towering creation with multiple toppings, you will always get a dessert that feels generous and satisfying. It’s easy to see why so many dessert lovers call ours the best ice cream Perth has to offer.
Pair Your Sundae With A Delicious Waffle Or Coffee
A sundae is fantastic on its own, but pairing it with other menu favourites takes the experience to another level. One of the most indulgent options is the waffle and sundae combination. The contrast of warm, fluffy waffle with cold, creamy ice cream is irresistible. Add a drizzle of sauce and you have a dessert that is both comforting and exciting.
If you’re in the mood for , our espresso or iced coffee beautifully complements the sweetness of a sundae. For something fun and refreshing, a milkshake or fruit smoothie makes a great match, especially on warm days. These pairings make any occasion feel special, from a date or a family outing to a quiet moment of indulgence on your own.
Visit Geláre For A Sundae Experience Worth Sharing
If you’re looking for the perfect ice cream sundae in Perth, Geláre offers a dessert experience that is just as fun to eat as it is to share. With premium ice cream, a variety of flavours and plenty of toppings, we make it easy to create a sundae that suits your taste. Add a waffle or your favourite coffee and you have a treat that is satisfying from the first spoonful to the last.
Check out our menu and start planning your dream sundae today. Regardless if you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to enjoy a moment of indulgence, Geláre is ready to serve up something delicious. It’s no wonder we are known for the best ice cream Perth has to offer.
