decadent layered waffle cake filled with creamy vanilla ice cream, topped with fresh berries, caramel drizzle, and a decorative pat of butter. This frozen dessert is easy to make yet impressively indulgent, perfect for summer gatherings, birthdays, or a fun twist on classic ice cream cake.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy – Requires just a few ingredients and minimal preparation.
- Perfect Make-Ahead Dessert – Freezing in advance makes it ideal for entertaining.
- A Unique Twist on Ice Cream Cake – Waffles add a crispy, golden texture that pairs beautifully with creamy ice cream.
- Customizable – Easily swap ice cream flavors, toppings, or sauces to match your preferences.
- No Baking Required – A hassle-free frozen treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 6 Belgian waffles (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 quart vanilla ice cream, softened
- 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh blueberries
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar (for dusting)
- 1 small cube of butter (for decoration)
Directions
- Assemble the Layers – Place one waffle on a serving plate and spread a layer of softened ice cream on top.
- Repeat the Process – Continue layering waffles and ice cream until all six waffles are stacked, finishing with a waffle on top.
- Freeze the Cake – Place the assembled cake in the freezer for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
- Add Toppings – Before serving, drizzle with caramel sauce and top with fresh strawberries and blueberries.
- Decorate and Serve – Add a decorative cube of butter and dust with powdered sugar for a finishing touch. Slice and enjoy immediately!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6 servings
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Freezing Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Calories: 380 kcal per serving
Variations
- Different Ice Cream Flavors – Try chocolate, strawberry, cookies and cream, or mint chocolate chip.
- Add More Toppings – Crushed nuts, chocolate chips, whipped cream, or sprinkles make great additions.
- Swap the Sauce – Replace caramel with chocolate sauce, honey, or fruit compote.
- Make It Extra Crunchy – Toast the waffles before layering for added crispiness.
- Use Mini Waffles – Create individual ice cream cakes using smaller waffles for a fun, single-serve option.
Storage/Reheating
- Freezing: Store the waffle ice cream cake in the freezer, covered with plastic wrap or foil, for up to 1 week.
- Serving Tip: Let the cake sit at room temperature for a few minutes before slicing to make cutting easier.
- Avoid Reheating: This dessert is meant to be enjoyed frozen, so no reheating is needed.
FAQs
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble and freeze the cake up to a week in advance. Just add fresh toppings right before serving.
Do I need to toast the waffles first?
Not necessarily, but toasting them can add extra crunch and prevent them from becoming too soft.
What’s the best way to soften ice cream for layering?
Leave the ice cream at room temperature for 10–15 minutes, or microwave it for 10–15 seconds to make spreading easier.
Can I use homemade waffles?
Absolutely! Homemade waffles add a fresh, rich flavor to the cake.
What other fruits can I use?
Raspberries, blackberries, bananas, or mango slices would all be great alternatives.
How do I prevent the waffles from getting too hard in the freezer?
If you prefer a softer texture, let the cake sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before serving.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free waffles and ensure the ice cream is gluten-free.
What can I use instead of caramel sauce?
Chocolate syrup, maple syrup, or a fruit puree all work well as substitutes.
Can I add layers of syrup or jam between the waffles?
Yes! A thin layer of jam, honey, or Nutella between waffles will enhance the flavor.
How do I make this dessert dairy-free?
Use dairy-free waffles and swap the ice cream for a plant-based alternative. You can also use coconut caramel or dairy-free chocolate sauce.
Conclusion
Waffle Ice Cream Cake is an easy yet impressive frozen treat that combines crispy waffles with smooth, creamy ice cream. Topped with fresh berries, caramel drizzle, and a dusting of powdered sugar, this dessert is perfect for any special occasion. Whether you customize it with different flavors or enjoy it as is, this ice cream cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Try it today and enjoy the perfect blend of textures and flavors!
O
PrintWaffle Ice Cream Cake
A decadent layered waffle cake filled with creamy vanilla ice cream, topped with fresh berries, caramel drizzle, and a pat of butter for the perfect frozen treat. This easy, no-bake dessert is a showstopper for any occasion!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- freeze time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 6 Belgian waffles (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 quart vanilla ice cream, softened
- 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh blueberries
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar (for dusting)
- 1 small cube of butter (for decoration)
Instructions
-
Assemble the Cake:
- Place one waffle on a serving plate and spread a generous layer of softened vanilla ice cream on top.
- Repeat the process, stacking waffles and ice cream layers, finishing with a waffle on top.
-
Freeze Until Firm:
- Transfer the stacked cake to the freezer and freeze for at least 2 hours until firm.
-
Decorate & Serve:
- Before serving, drizzle with caramel sauce and top with fresh strawberries and blueberries.
- Add a decorative cube of butter and dust with powdered sugar for a gourmet touch.
- Slice and serve immediately for a delicious frozen treat!
Notes
- For extra flavor, swap vanilla ice cream for chocolate, strawberry, or caramel swirl.
- Use chocolate waffles or cinnamon waffles for a fun twist.
- If waffles are too hard to slice, let the cake sit for 5 minutes before cutting.
Nutrition
- Calories: 380 kcal per serving