For connoisseurs of fine flavors and lovers of unique desserts, our original Red Wine Ice Cream Recipe has consistently been a fan favorite. It’s clear that many of you share our passion for infusing life’s pleasures with a touch of vino, especially when it comes in a form that can be savored by the spoonful. The allure of wine-infused desserts lies in their ability to offer a sophisticated twist on classic comforts, making every bite an adventure for the palate.

Inspired by the overwhelming enthusiasm for that recipe, and just in time for a special occasion like Valentine’s Day – or simply to treat ourselves to something extraordinary – we decided to transform that beloved ice cream into a truly unforgettable dessert experience: the Red Wine Ice Cream Sundae. While many sundaes welcome an abundance of toppings, this sophisticated creation demanded a more thoughtful approach. Given its adult-centric foundation, each additional element was carefully curated to complement the complex notes of the wine, rather than overshadow them. Our goal was to build a dessert where every component sings in harmony, creating a truly gourmet indulgence.

Join us on a culinary journey as we explore the harmonious layers of this exceptional dessert. From the rich, velvety base to the delicately spiced syrup and aromatic almonds, every component plays a vital role in creating a symphony of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. This isn’t just a dessert; it’s an experience, designed to elevate your everyday moments into something truly special.

The Heart of the Sundae: Creamy Red Wine Ice Cream Base

Our sundae begins with the star ingredient: the creamy red wine ice cream itself. This isn’t just a hint of wine; it’s a celebration, crafted with an entire bottle of robust red wine. We highly recommend a full-bodied varietal like Cabernet Sauvignon for its depth and fruit-forward characteristics, which beautifully infuse the dessert with a profound, sophisticated flavor. The alcohol content in the wine is carefully reduced during the cooking process for the ice cream base, leaving behind a concentrated essence of its fruity and earthy notes. Balanced with rich brown sugar, the fragrant essence of real vanilla beans, and a whisper of cinnamon, this base delivers a delightful sweetness punctuated by a pleasant, wine-induced tang. The inclusion of heavy cream and half-and-half ensures an incredibly smooth and luscious texture that truly melts in your mouth, providing a luxurious foundation for our sundae.

Crafting this homemade ice cream sets the stage for the entire sundae. The slow churning process allows the wine’s complex flavors to mellow and integrate seamlessly with the dairy, creating a unique dessert profile that is both familiar and exciting. It’s a dessert designed for those who appreciate the finer things in life, offering a delightful and surprisingly accessible twist on a classic frozen treat. The subtle spice of cinnamon further enhances the warmth of the red wine, making this ice cream a truly exceptional indulgence on its own.

Crafting the Perfect Toppings: Enhancing the Wine Experience

To truly elevate our red wine ice cream into a sundae, the toppings must be nothing short of spectacular. Each element has been chosen not just for its deliciousness, but for its ability to enhance and complement the unique character of the wine-infused base, creating a harmonious blend that tantalizes all the senses.

Luxurious Vanilla Bean Whipped Cream

With real vanilla beans already weaving their magic into the ice cream, it felt only natural to crown it with a similarly pure and aromatic vanilla bean whipped cream. This topping is elegantly simple yet incredibly impactful. Made with just heavy cream, a touch of powdered sugar for subtle sweetness, and the precious caviar scraped from a fresh vanilla bean, it provides a light, airy contrast to the rich ice cream. The visual appeal of tiny black specks of vanilla bean adds to its gourmet charm. For that gorgeously puffy, stiff consistency often seen in professional desserts, a whipped cream canister is a fantastic tool that infuses air and creates a stable foam. However, don’t fret if you don’t own one; a standard electric mixer will still yield wonderfully light and fluffy whipped cream, perhaps just slightly less firm. The delicate sweetness and profound vanilla notes of this cream make it an ideal companion, adding a cloud-like texture and enhancing the overall vanilla essence of the sundae, without overpowering the wine.

Aromatic Spiced Red Wine Syrup

Every great sundae needs a luscious sauce, and for our red wine creation, a homemade spiced red wine syrup was the clear choice over a typical chocolate drizzle. This syrup isn’t just sweet; it’s a concentrated burst of complex, warm flavors. Imagine an entire bottle of red wine, carefully reduced over medium heat in a skillet, gently simmering with warm cinnamon sticks, fragrant allspice, and a hint of black peppercorns and whole cloves. The reduction process intensifies the wine’s fruitiness while allowing the spices to infuse it with a cozy, inviting aroma. The result is a thick, glossy syrup with a depth of flavor that is simply captivating – rich, slightly sweet, and wonderfully aromatic. It’s not only exceptional on our red wine ice cream but would also be a magnificent accompaniment to other desserts, such as cheesecake, panna cotta, or even drizzled over pancakes or waffles for a truly sophisticated breakfast experience. The subtle warmth of the spices perfectly harmonizes with the cool, tangy ice cream, creating a delightful dance on the palate.

Elegant Lavender Almonds: The Crucial Crunch

No sundae is complete without a textural counterpoint, and crunchy nuts are a traditional favorite. When conceptualizing this recipe, my colleague Janette astutely pointed out the missing element: nuts! While I don’t always gravitate towards nuts in my desserts, she was absolutely right – for a sundae, they are essential. However, I wasn’t just going to “throw on” any nuts to fulfill a requirement. This sophisticated sundae deserved a topping that would genuinely complement the unique flavor profile of the wine ice cream, offering both texture and an additional layer of aromatic complexity.

My inspiration struck from a delightful memory of wonderful lavender almonds I once enjoyed at a local wine bar, Ester’s. This experience led to the creation of what I believe are the perfect nut topping for our sophisticated sundae: toasted Marcona almonds, subtly drizzled with fine olive oil, then seasoned with a delicate blend of salt, sugar, and finely ground dried lavender. Marcona almonds, known for their softer texture and buttery flavor compared to traditional almonds, are the ideal choice here, providing a more refined crunch. The olive oil helps the seasonings adhere and adds a silky richness, while the lavender introduces an unexpected yet utterly charming floral note that harmonizes beautifully with the red wine’s nuances. I prefer to leave them whole for satisfyingly large chunks within the ice cream, which offers a more substantial bite, but feel free to chop them into smaller pieces if that suits your preference. Their delicate crunch and aromatic essence provide a truly gourmet finish, elevating the entire sundae experience.

Assembling Your Gourmet Red Wine Ice Cream Sundae

Now for the grand finale: bringing all these exquisite components together. The assembly is a joy in itself, culminating in a dessert that is as visually stunning as it is delicious. Begin by artfully scooping generous portions of the creamy red wine ice cream into elegant wine glasses or classic sundae bowls. The deep, rich color of the ice cream provides a beautiful base. Next, add a generous dollop of the ethereal vanilla bean whipped cream, allowing its lightness and pristine white color to contrast beautifully with the richness below. Then, with a flourish, drizzle that beautiful, glistening spiced red wine syrup generously over the top, letting its deep ruby hue cascade down the sides of the whipped cream and ice cream, creating an inviting visual. Finally, crown your creation with a liberal scattering of those elegantly delicious lavender almonds. Take that first bite, and prepare to be utterly transported – the symphony of cold, creamy, airy, warm, sweet, tangy, crunchy, and aromatic flavors is nothing short of pure, unadulterated dessert heaven. Seriously, this sundae is an experience not to be missed!

Tips for Success and Creative Variations

To ensure your Red Wine Ice Cream Sundae is nothing short of perfect, consider these expert tips:

• Choose Your Wine Wisely: For both the ice cream and the syrup, selecting a red wine you genuinely enjoy drinking is paramount. A medium-bodied, fruit-forward wine like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, or even a Zinfandel works wonderfully as their flavors concentrate well. Avoid overly tannic or very dry wines, as their characteristics might become too pronounced and astringent in the dessert.
• Preparation is Key: While the ice cream needs time to churn and freeze (often requiring an overnight chill for the base), the whipped cream, spiced syrup, and lavender almonds can all be prepared in advance. This makes assembly a breeze when you’re ready to indulge, transforming a complex recipe into an easy dessert finale. The syrup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, and the almonds will keep well for several days.
• Serve Immediately: For the absolute best experience, assemble your sundaes just before serving to maintain the perfect frozen consistency of the ice cream and the fresh lightness of the whipped cream.
• Presentation Matters: Using elegant wine glasses or classic coupe glasses truly elevates the presentation, making this dessert feel even more special.

Feeling adventurous? Here are a few ideas for delightful variations to try and make this sundae uniquely yours:

• Add a Chocolate Twist: Introduce a sprinkle of high-quality cacao nibs for a bitter counterpoint that pairs exquisitely with red wine, or a rich drizzle of homemade dark chocolate sauce for a more classic indulgence.
• Berry Bliss: Swirl in some fresh or lightly stewed blackberries, raspberries, or cherries into the ice cream base during the final stages of churning. Alternatively, scatter them as a fresh, vibrant topping just before serving. Their natural tartness would complement the wine beautifully.
• Spice it Up Further: Experiment with different whole spices in your red wine syrup, such as star anise, green cardamom pods, or a strip of orange peel, for an even more complex and aromatic profile. A dash of black pepper in the syrup can also add an unexpected warmth.
• Herbaceous Notes: For the adventurous, a tiny sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme could be incorporated into the syrup for an unexpected herbal dimension that can surprisingly enhance red wine flavors.

Whether it’s a romantic Valentine’s Day treat, a sophisticated dinner party finale, or simply an “every weekend must” for those who cherish gourmet delights (we certainly won’t judge!), this Red Wine Ice Cream Sundae is designed to impress and delight. Its unique blend of flavors offers a memorable conclusion to any meal. If you discover a new favorite variation or a clever tip, we’d absolutely love to hear about it – share your culinary adventures with us in the comments!

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Red Wine Ice Cream Sundae Recipe

Homemade red wine ice cream with vanilla bean whipped cream, spiced red wine syrup, and lavender almonds make the ultimate gourmet ice cream sundae.

5 out of 5 stars from 1 vote

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Prep Time: 20 mins

Cook Time: 50 mins

Total Time: 1 hr 10 mins

Servings: 3-4

Ingredients

Red Wine Ice Cream

• 1 bottle of red wine (e.g., Cabernet Sauvignon)
• 2/3 cup brown sugar
• 2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 1 cup half & half
• 4 egg yolks
• 1 vanilla bean

Vanilla Bean Whipped Cream

• 1 Cup Heavy Cream
• 1 Vanilla Bean
• 2 tsp Powdered Sugar

Spiced Red Wine Syrup

• 1 bottle red wine (e.g., Cabernet Sauvignon)
• 1/8 tsp salt
• 2/3 cup sugar, or to taste
• 1 tsp peppercorns, bruised
• 3 cinnamon sticks
• 4 whole cloves
• 2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Lavender Almonds

• 1/2 lb Marcona Almonds
• 1.5 Tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 2.5 Tbsp Sugar
• 1/2 Tbsp Dried Lavender
• 1/4 tsp Salt

Instructions

Red Wine Ice Cream Recipe

1. Follow the full instructions for making the red wine ice cream here.

Vanilla Bean Whipped Cream Recipe

1. To ensure maximum fluffiness, place a metal mixing bowl (and a whipped cream dispenser if using one) in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to chill thoroughly. Cold equipment is crucial for stable whipped cream.
2. Carefully slice open the vanilla bean lengthwise with a sharp knife and use the back of the knife or a small spoon to scrape out the aromatic caviar from the inside. Set aside.
3. Once the bowl is thoroughly chilled, remove it from the refrigerator. Add the scraped vanilla bean caviar, heavy cream, and powdered sugar. If you are using a whipped cream dispenser, whisk these ingredients together until just combined, then pour the mixture into the canister and follow your dispenser’s specific instructions. If you’re using a hand-held or stand electric mixer, beat on high speed for 2-3 minutes, or until the whipped cream forms stiff peaks that hold their shape.

Spiced Red Wine Syrup Recipe

1. In a large skillet or saucepan, combine all the ingredients for the spiced red wine syrup: the bottle of red wine, salt, sugar, bruised peppercorns, cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and vanilla extract. Place the skillet over medium-high heat. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer, uncovered, and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, reducing the wine into a rich, viscous syrup. This process typically takes about 15-20 minutes, or until the syrup is thick enough to generously coat the back of a wooden spoon. Once ready, carefully transfer the hot syrup into a clean, heat-proof glass jar. Let it cool completely to room temperature before storing it in the refrigerator, where it will further thicken.

Lavender Almonds Recipe

1. If you have a mortar and pestle, use it to finely grind the dried lavender into a powder. This helps to release its aromatic oils and ensures the flavor is evenly distributed. If you don’t have one, finely chop the lavender with a sharp knife.
2. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Spread the Marcona almonds in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast for approximately 15 minutes, or until they are lightly golden brown and fragrant. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning. Remove from the oven and let them cool completely on the baking sheet.
3. Once cooled, gently toss the roasted almonds with the olive oil, salt, sugar, and the finely ground lavender. Ensure they are evenly coated for a consistent flavor profile. Store the prepared lavender almonds in an airtight container at room temperature until ready to use, where they will retain their crispness and aroma.

Red Wine Ice Cream Sundae Assembly

1. To assemble your exquisite sundae, scoop several generous portions of the chilled red wine ice cream into your chosen serving vessel – an elegant wine glass or a beautiful dessert bowl works perfectly.
2. Next, artfully top the ice cream with a generous amount of the vanilla bean whipped cream, creating a delightful cloud-like layer.
3. Drizzle a good helping of the spiced red wine syrup lavishly over the whipped cream and down the sides of the ice cream, ensuring every bite will be touched by its rich flavor.
4. Finally, scatter a delightful handful of the lavender almonds over the top for that essential crunch, unique floral note, and aromatic finish. Serve immediately and prepare for a truly heavenly and unforgettable dessert experience!

Nutrition

Calories: 400kcal (20% Daily Value)