A take on the classic ice cream sundae, hot fudge sundae consists of ice cream, hot fudge, and whipped cream. In this sundae version, a helping of warm, gooey chocolate sauce is poured over scoops of cold ice cream (traditionally vanilla ice cream) - a step that creates a nice temperature contrast and elevates the sensory pleasure offered by the creamy dessert.

A dollop or more of light and fluffy whipped cream goes on top of the ice cream drenched in chocolate sauce, and the whole thing is then garnished with sprinkles, toasted nuts, or a red maraschino cherry if desired. This simple yet rich dessert has been around since 1906 when it is believed to have been invented by Los Angeles-based candy maker, Clarence Clifton Brown, who, at that time, owned a store called C.

C. Brown’s Ice Cream Shop on Hollywood Boulevard. Hot fudge sundae has since been among the favorite desserts of many generations, and it’s even got its own National Hot Fudge Sundae Day, celebrated on July 25th each year.