Ice cream nachos use waffle cone pieces as chips, topped with ice cream and various toppings. In this guide, you’ll learn how to make and customize them for the perfect summer treat. Summer is the perfect time to indulge in some sweet treats, and what better way to cool off than with a delicious ice cream dessert? While traditional nachos are typically made with savory ingredients like chips, cheese, and meat, we’re putting a fun twist on this classic snack by using waffle cone pieces instead. Not only does it add a unique texture, but it also allows for endless flavor combinations. So let’s grab our aprons and get ready to make the best ice cream nachos ever!
First things first, you’ll need to gather all of your ingredients. For the base of our nachos, we’ll be using waffle cones that have been crushed into small pieces. You can either use a food processor or simply place them in a plastic bag and crush them with a rolling pin. Next, you’ll need to gather your toppings. For this recipe, we’ll be using diced tomatoes, black beans, shredded cheese, and pickled jalapenos.
Now that we have our ingredients ready, it’s time to assemble our tasty nachos! Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Then, spread out the crushed waffle cones onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 5-7 minutes until they are lightly toasted and set aside.
Next, take a large baking dish or cast iron skillet and layer half of the toasted waffle cones on the bottom. Sprinkle some shredded cheese over the top followed by half of the diced tomatoes, black beans, and pickled jalapenos.
Repeat this process with the remaining ingredients until all of your toppings are used up. Make sure to end with a final layer of shredded cheese on top. Pop the dish back into the oven for another 5-7 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Once done, take out your delicious waffle cone nachos and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. You can add some additional toppings like sour cream, guacamole, or salsa if desired. These unique and tasty nachos are sure to be a hit at any party or event!
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
Use crushed waffle cones as the base for your ice cream nachos for the perfect crunch.
Get creative with various ice cream flavors and toppings to make your nachos unique and exciting.
Assemble and serve immediately to keep everything crunchy and fresh for the best experience.
Crafting the Ultimate Ice Cream Nachos

To craft the perfect ice cream nachos, it’s imperative to start with a robust foundation. Utilize crushed waffle cones as your “chips” for their crispness that adeptly supports and scoops up both the creamy ice cream and its delightful toppings.
For an optimal serving experience, opt for metal or ceramic platters when dishing out your ice cream nachos. These materials are superior in maintaining the cold temperature of the dessert compared to plastic or glass, plus they lend an upscale look that elevates the visual appeal of this treat.
The allure of ice cream nachos lies in their boundless potential for flavor pairings. Delve into a spectrum of tastes by mixing various flavors such as classic chocolate and vanilla ice creams along with more bold selections like Rocky Road or strawberry. The combination of crunchy waffle cone chips intermingled with smooth, flavorful ice creams makes for an irresistibly textured indulgence—perfect when encapsulated within waffle cones themselves.
Essential Ingredients for Ice Cream Nachos

To create delectable ice cream nachos, start by breaking waffle cones into pieces similar to chips, which provide the perfect crispy counterpoint to the smoothness of the ice cream.
Incorporate a selection of ice cream flavors for an array of taste and texture experiences. While timeless favorites such as vanilla and chocolate remain beloved options, incorporating additional or combined flavors can elevate your dish’s appeal significantly.
Embrace inventive flair when it comes to toppings. Common selections feature whipped cream, rich hot fudge, velvety caramel sauce along with assorted nuts and fruits providing both crunch and zest. To infuse extra bursts of flavor, consider adding crushed candy bars or vibrant sprinkles while mini marshmallows and maraschino cherries present delightful final flourishes.Experiment with different types of cones and bowls to enhance the presentation of your ice cream creations. Waffle cones offer a unique texture and taste, while waffle bowls provide a sturdy base for multiple scoops. For a fun twist, try using cookie cups or chocolate-dipped cones.
Don’t forget about the importance of temperature when serving ice cream. Make sure to freeze your dishes beforehand so that the ice cream stays cold and doesn’t melt too quickly. And for an added touch, warm up your toppings before drizzling them over the ice cream for a delicious contrast in temperatures.
Consider adding some homemade options to your menu as well. Freshly baked cookies can be transformed into ice cream sandwiches with a scoop of your favorite flavor in between, while brownie sundaes are a decadent and indulgent treat. Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different flavor combinations – the possibilities are endless!
Don’t underestimate the power of presentation when it comes to serving ice cream. Use colorful toppings, fun sprinkles, and festive decorations to make your creations visually appealing. And don’t forget to have some fun with garnishes like whipped cream, cherries, and even edible flowers.
Lastly, don’t forget about catering to dietary restrictions. With an increasing demand for dairy-free and vegan options, consider offering sorbets or plant-based ice creams on your menu. This will not only expand your customer base but also show that you care about providing options for everyone to enjoy.
Assembling Your Ice Cream Nachos
Start by preparing your ice cream nachos with all the components at hand. Using kitchen shears, break waffle cones into pieces resembling chips that are ideal for picking up ice cream and its accompaniments.
Disperse these waffle cone fragments uniformly over a serving platter to establish a foundational layer for the toppings. Intersperse scoops of assorted ice cream flavors carefully throughout so that every section of the platter is laden with some creamy delight.
Proceed to embellish with your chosen garnishes. Lace the ice cream and broken waffle cone morsels with streams of chocolate sauce, caramel sauce, or hot fudge. Strew a variety of nuts, fruits, confectioneries, and more on top to craft an indulgent medley that balances both flavor profiles and textural contrasts.
Creative Topping Ideas

Cream nachos can be tailored to individual preferences, offering a canvas for an array of creative toppings. For those seeking a touch of freshness and vibrancy in their dessert, vibrant berries and banana slices provide both nutritional benefits and visual appeal.
For the ultimate sweet indulgence, adding mini marshmallows alongside fluffy whipped cream introduces diverse textures that enhance the smoothness of the ice cream. A generous drizzle of warm fudge or caramel sauce enriches this delightful treat with decadent flavors. Meanwhile, incorporating crushed candy bars such as Reese’s or Butterfingers brings an irresistible sweetness paired with a satisfying crunch.
At social events or casual get-togethers, consider creating an interactive experience by setting up your own DIY station for crafting custom ice cream nachos. Offer guests a selection of different toppings so they can assemble their ideal concoction. The finishing flourish? A sprinkle over some colorful rainbow sprinkles adds just the right festive flair to each personalized dessert creation.
Serving Tips and Tricks
To ensure the ice cream nachos remain fresh and that the waffle cone pieces don’t become soggy, it’s essential to serve them as soon as they are prepared. Pre-cool your serving platters to extend the period during which the ice cream stays firm.
Utilize a sizeable platter for an eye-catching display when arranging this dessert. Lay out scoops of ice cream along with waffle cone pieces on the platter in a way that allows easy access to various toppings, promoting sharing and contributing to a convivial ambiance.
Finish off by artistically drizzling your chosen sauces over everything and scattering some extra toppings before presenting it. This not only enriches the overall taste, but also makes these creamy nachos look tantalizingly delicious. Serve straight away to preserve their delightful crunchiness.
Preparing Ahead of Time
Before any gathering or party, it’s wise to do some prep work to avoid last-minute rushes. Freeze individual ice cream scoops on a lined baking sheet for half an hour to 45 minutes in advance, which will yield perfectly round servings that are ready when needed.
To ensure the waffle cone pieces maintain their crispness, break them ahead of time and store in a sealed container. Get your toppings organized by dicing fruits, chopping nuts, and cutting up candy bars. Place each topping in separate containers for quick access during assembly.
When you’re ready to serve your guests, simply construct the dessert with the pre-scooped ice cream and prepared toppings atop a bed of crunchy waffle cone bits. By doing this right before serving ensures that your ice cream nachos are fresh. Present them promptly after assembling to guarantee optimal freshness and texture.
Storing Leftovers
To ensure that leftover ice cream nachos remain fresh, they should be carefully placed in a Ziploc bag and stored in the freezer.
For any waffle or sugar cone pieces that are left over, make sure to seal them inside an airtight container to maintain their crispness. Although these items are ideally consumed when freshly made, following these storage suggestions will allow you to enjoy the leftovers at a later time.
Enjoying Your Ice Cream Nachos

When enjoyed with loved ones, ice cream nachos can transform any gathering into a delightful occasion. They are the ideal treat for cooling down on a sweltering summer day and make even a regular evening feel like an extraordinary celebration. The quick preparation allows you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time savoring this delicious dessert with your family and friends.
Indulging in ice cream nachos becomes an interactive pleasure when paired with a do-it-yourself toppings station. It encourages everyone to take part in concocting their own version of the dish by sprinkling on their chosen toppings for truly personalized flavor combinations. This engaging approach ensures that each person crafts their ultimate indulgence.
Serving up ice cream nachos is synonymous with creating joyous moments punctuated by laughter and high spirits. Ideal for marking special events or simply injecting some excitement into your routine, these tasty treats invariably produce smiles all around. So gather those closest to you and indulge together in this festive delight!
Summary
Ice cream nachos are the ultimate summer treat, combining the best of both worlds with crunchy waffle cone pieces and creamy ice cream. By following our guide, you can create a delicious and fun dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. From choosing the right ingredients to adding creative toppings and serving tips, we’ve covered everything you need to know to make your ice cream nachos a hit.
So why not give it a try? Gather your favorite toppings, break out the waffle cones, and create a dessert that will wow your family and friends. Ice cream nachos are not only easy to make but also incredibly fun to eat. Enjoy the process and the smiles that come with every bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do ice cream and chips go together? Yes, ice cream and chips can be paired together for a unique flavor combination that combines the sweetness of ice cream with the crunchiness of chips.
Q: Why is Rocky Road ice cream so good? A Rocky Road ice cream is favored for its combination of chocolate, marshmallows, and nuts, offering a delightful mix of flavors and textures.
Q: Is it normal to dip fries in ice cream? Dipping fries in ice cream is a common practice for some people, combining salty and sweet flavors in a surprisingly delightful way.
What do you use for ice cream nachos?
For ice cream nachos, you can use broken waffle cones as the base, then pile on your favorite ice cream and toppings like fruits, nuts, sauces, and candies.
It’s a tasty and fun twist on the classic dessert!
Do ice cream and chips go together?
Absolutely, ice cream and chips make a surprisingly tasty combo! The sweetness of the ice cream and the salty crunch of the chips really balance each other out.
Why is Rocky Road ice cream so good?
Rocky Road ice cream is so good because it perfectly blends chocolate, marshmallows, and nuts, giving you a tasty mix of flavors and textures in every scoop.
It’s hard to beat that combo!
Is it normal to dip fries in ice cream?
Absolutely, dipping fries in ice cream is totally normal for many, and it’s a delicious mix of salty and sweet!
Give it a try if you haven’t already!
Can I prepare ice cream nachos ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prep the ice cream and toppings in advance, but for the best crunch, wait to assemble those nachos right before serving.
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