What could be better than a bowl of ice cream on a hot summer day? Why, a bowl of ice cream with yummy toppings of course. But why stick to the boring and traditional chocolate sauce, whipped cream, and sprinkles when there’s a whole world of funky toppings out there waiting to be discovered? Here are five for you to try.

Aged Balsamic & Strawberries

This is so bougie, and so darn good it’s irresistible. How have we not thought of this before? The aged balsamic is sweet with the consistency of a sauce, and pairs perfectly with the slight tartness of the strawberries. Chef Ina Garten (aka the Barefoot Contessa) has her own recipe that adds some pepper, sugar, and lemon zest to take it to the next level. Yes please!

Nutella

Just like classic chocolate sauce, only better! This beloved chocolate-hazelnut spread is already downright delicious all on its own. Just nuke it in the microwave for around 30 to 60 seconds and it will soften to a sauce-like consistency, then combine it with some vanilla or banana ice cream and drop the mic. You can even add a little crunch with some coarsely chopped hazelnuts sprinkled on top.

Caramel Corn

This has it all. The sweetness and crunch of the caramel, plus the saltiness of the popcorn, with a dash of nostalgia on the side. And caramel corn works as a topping with just about any flavor of ice cream you can think of. Add some chopped peanuts or slivered almonds and a sprinkle of finely chopped mint leaves to put it over the top.

Wasabi Peas

This may seem crazy, but hear us out. Even if the strong flavor of wasabi peas is not usually your cup of tea, the cold, creaminess of some vanilla or lavender ice cream mellows their bite just enough to make them a perfectly exotic, crunchy topping. You can crush the peas up or sprinkle them over the ice cream whole. It’s like, mad-scientist crazy genius.

Cinnamon Toast Crunch & Bourbon

Serve this over vanilla ice cream in fancy glass tumbler or crystal goblet as the dessert course at your next dinner party, and wow your friends. Crunchy, sweet, and boozy – it’s the perfect ending to a meal. Of course, keep this one for the 21-and-over crowd.

Try some (or all) of these creative ice cream toppings today at your Olympus Northpoint apartment home. Check out our other blog posts for more fun lifestyle tips, or contact us for additional information about our inviting community in Albuquerque, NM.