French Ice Cream Sundae Desserts

French ice cream sundaes can include any combination of flavors, sorbets, syrups, nuts, and even alcohols. There really is no limit. However, there are some popular combinations that you are likely to find on the menu if you visit an ice cream parlor (glacier) in France. These classic sundaes are pretty easy to replicate at home. Add a fancy French name and you’ll have a fancy dessert ready in no time.

If you decide to serve your dessert with a French twist, don’t forget to top it with one or two rolled “cigarettes” or fan-shaped cookies. Its slightly sweet, crunchy crunch is the perfect accompaniment to a cold, rich French sundae.

chocolate liege – Chocolate and vanilla ice cream, chocolate sauce, whipped cream and chocolate shavings.

cafe liege – This is the same as a chocolate liegeois, except that the coffee replaces the chocolate.

caribbean cup – Here the flavors are supposed to be Caribbean. Many times this means vanilla ice cream and rum raisin, topped with pineapple and whipped cream, but other combinations of rum and fruit are possible.

Tutti Frutti Cup – A combination of different sorbets (for example, pear, peach or pineapple) with different fresh fruits (for example, strawberries, grapes, melon or pineapple), topped with whipped cream and fruit syrup.

colonel’s cup – Watch out – the colonel has a bite! Lemon sorbet covered with vodka.

White lady – Just a simple vanilla ice cream topped with chocolate sauce and whipped cream. Elegance is in the name.

Peach Melba – This was invented by the renowned French culinary authority, Auguste Escoffier, in testament to his admiration for Nelly Melba, who was a popular 20th century Australian opera singer. Vanilla ice cream, poached peaches and raspberry sauce. These days, she’s likely to find her Peach Melba covered in whipped cream, too.

Pear Belle Helene – Another opera-inspired cold dessert – this one commemorates the 1864 performance of La Belle Helene, an operetta by Jacques Offenbach. Vanilla ice cream, poached pears and chocolate sauce.

profiteroles – This isn’t ice cream, but you’ll find it frequently offered on the menu at a French glacier. Cream puffs are typically filled with vanilla ice cream and drizzled with chocolate sauce.