Indulge in these Vegan Strawberry and Balsamic Ice Cream Sundaes – a sophisticated grown-up dessert featuring sweet macerated strawberries, rich balsamic glaze, dairy-free vanilla ice cream and fresh basil. Get the recipe below.
If you're looking for a dessert that feels a little more sophisticated than your average ice cream sundae, these Vegan Strawberry and Balsamic Ice Cream Sundaes are just the thing. Combining sweet, juicy strawberries with tangy balsamic glaze, creamy dairy-free vanilla ice cream and fragrant fresh basil, this dessert is designed for grown-up tastes.
At first glance, the glossy dark drizzle over the ice cream looks exactly like rich chocolate sauce. But surprise! It's actually a balsamic glaze. The sweet acidity of the balsamic complements the strawberries beautifully, adding depth and complexity that transforms a simple sundae into something truly special.
Perfect for summer entertaining, dinner parties or an elegant weekend treat, these vegan strawberry sundaes are quick to prepare yet impressive enough to serve to guests. Best of all, they require just a handful of ingredients and can be assembled in minutes.
Jump to:
Ingredients
There are just a handful of ingredients required for this recipe. They are:
- Fresh strawberries
- Caster sugar
- Dairy-free vanilla ice cream
- Balsamic glaze
- Fresh basil leaves
This recipe is best when strawberries are in season. Whether you head to the local pick your own farm, grow your own, or buy them in store, pick ones that are bright red, ripe and juicy!
Step-by-step instructions
There are just 6 steps between you and a delicious ice cream sundae...
- Step 1: macerate the strawberries by tossing with the caster sugar and leaving until they begin to release their juices
- Step 2: drizzle your ice cream sundae glasses with a little balsamic glaze
- Step 3: add 3 scoops of dairy-free vanilla ice cream to your ice cream sundae glass
- Step 4: top the ice cream with the macerated strawberries
- Step 5: drizzle over a little more balsamic glaze
- Step 6: garnish with the basil leaves and serve
Hint: Chill your serving glasses in the freezer for 10 minutes before assembling. This helps keep the dairy-free ice cream firm and prevents the sundaes from melting too quickly.
Substitutions
Need to make a few swaps? Don't worry, I've got you covered! The following substitutions will still result in a delicious dessert:
- Sugar: Replace caster sugar with maple syrup, agave syrup or coconut sugar.
- Ice cream: Swap dairy-free vanilla ice cream for coconut, oat or almond-based alternatives.
- Herbs: Use fresh mint instead of basil for a different herbal note.
- Balsamic: If balsamic glaze isn't available, reduce regular balsamic vinegar in a saucepan until thick and syrupy.
Variations
- Add crunch: Top with toasted flaked almonds, crushed pistachios or vegan biscotti crumbs.
- Chocolate lover's version: Add vegan dark chocolate shavings alongside the balsamic glaze for a luxurious twist.
- Berry medley sundae: Use a combination of strawberries, raspberries and blackberries.
- Boozy adult sundae: Add a splash of strawberry liqueur or vegan-friendly limoncello to the macerated berries.
Equipment
- Knife
- Chopping board
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon
- Ice cream scoop
- Sundae glasses or dessert bowls
Storage
The assembled sundaes are best enjoyed immediately.
But, if you don't want to make anything ahead of time, the macerated strawberries can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Top tip
Just pick the smallest of basil leaves from the plant so as not to overpower the sundaes with herbal flavours.
Frequently asked questions
Balsamic glaze enhances the natural sweetness of strawberries while adding a subtle tangy richness, creating a complex flavour profile. The basil adds a herbal note.
Most balsamic glazes are vegan, but always check the label as ingredients can vary by brand.
Fresh strawberries are recommended for the best texture, but defrosted frozen strawberries can be used if necessary.
The recipe
Vegan Strawberry and Balsamic Ice Cream Sundaes
Equipment
- knife
- chopping board
- Mixing bowl
- spoon
- Ice cream scoop
- Sundae glasses or dessert bowls
Ingredients
- 400 g fresh strawberries hulled and sliced
- 2 tablespoons caster sugar
- 500 ml dairy-free vanilla ice cream
- 4 tablespoons balsamic glaze
- 1 handful fresh basil leaves
Instructions
- Place the sliced strawberries in a bowl and sprinkle over the caster sugar. Stir gently to coat and leave for 20–30 minutes. The sugar will draw out the juices, creating a naturally sweet syrup.
- Drizzle a little balsamic around your sundae glasses or bowls.
- Scoop the dairy-free vanilla ice cream into four sundae glasses or bowls.
- Spoon the macerated strawberries and their juices generously over the ice cream.
- Finish each sundae with a generous drizzle of balsamic glaze.
- Scatter over fresh basil leaves and serve immediately.
Leave a Reply