If you are looking for an indulgent dessert that feels like a special occasion in every bite, the Brownie Hot Fudge Sundae is an absolute showstopper. Combining rich, fudgy brownies with luscious chocolate chip ice cream and a velvety red wine hot fudge sauce, this sundae marries deep flavors and contrasting textures to create a heavenly experience. Whether you’re treating yourself or delighting guests, this decadent Brownie Hot Fudge Sundae is guaranteed to turn any moment into a celebration of chocolatey goodness.

Brownie Hot Fudge Sundae Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together effortlessly to create layers of flavor and texture that make the Brownie Hot Fudge Sundae unforgettable. Each element plays a crucial role, from the bittersweet chocolate adding depth of flavor to the toasted almonds lending a satisfying crunch and contrast.

3/4 cup Red Wine: Adds a fruity complexity that deepens the fudge sauce flavor beautifully.
3/4 cup Heavy Cream: Provides creaminess and smoothness to the hot fudge sauce.
2 tablespoons Corn Syrup (or tapioca syrup): Helps achieve shiny, luscious texture in the sauce without crystallizing.
1/2 cup Brown Sugar (light or dark): Offers caramel notes and sweetness to balance richness.
1/4 cup Butter: Enriches the sauce with silky texture and flavor.
12 oz Bittersweet Chocolate (chopped finely or chips): The star ingredient to create that deep chocolate intensity.
2 tablespoons Amaretto Cherry Juice (optional): Infuses a subtle, inviting cherry-almond aroma.
1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract: Rounds out flavors adding warmth and depth.
1 teaspoon Kosher Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the chocolate’s richness.
12 Chocolate Cherry Brownies: The chewy, fruity base of the sundae.
12 scoops Chocolate Chocolate Chip Ice Cream: Adds creamy cold contrast and chocolate bursts.
1 pint Red Wine Hot Fudge (prepared above): The gooey, warm drizzle that ties everything together.
2 cups Whipped Cream (lightly sweetened): Adds airy lightness and sweetness on top.
1/2 cup Amaretto Cherries (roughly chopped): Provides fresh bursts of cherry flavor and texture.
1/2 cup Sliced Almonds (lightly toasted): Brings crunch and a nutty aroma to the sundae.
Flaky Sea Salt (e.g. Maldon) for garnish: Finishing touch to elevate every bite with a hint of saltiness.

How to Make Brownie Hot Fudge Sundae

Step 1: Make the Red Wine Hot Fudge Sauce

Start by whisking together the red wine, heavy cream, corn syrup, and brown sugar in a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to simmer. This base forms the luscious body of your hot fudge sauce.

Step 2: Add Butter and Melt Chocolate

Next, incorporate the butter and whisk until it melts completely, adding silkiness to the sauce. Remove from heat, then stir in the bittersweet chocolate, amaretto cherry juice if using, vanilla extract, and kosher salt. Let it rest for 2 minutes to let the chocolate melt before whisking until smooth and uniform.

Step 3: Cool and Store the Sauce

Pour the hot fudge sauce into two pint-sized mason jars and allow it to cool for at least one hour so it thickens beautifully. You can store the sauce in the refrigerator for up to two months or freeze it for up to six months, which makes it a fantastic make-ahead treat.

Step 4: Assemble the Sundaes

To assemble your Brownie Hot Fudge Sundae, arrange the chocolate cherry brownies on serving plates. Top each brownie with a generous scoop of chocolate chocolate chip ice cream. Drizzle the cooled red wine hot fudge sauce over the ice cream, then crown it with a hearty dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream.

Step 5: Add Cherries, Almonds, and Sea Salt

Finish off each sundae with a spoonful of chopped amaretto cherries and a sprinkle of toasted sliced almonds for crunch. A few pinches of flaky sea salt add an irresistible salty contrast that enhances the richness of the entire dessert.

How to Serve Brownie Hot Fudge Sundae

Garnishes

The magic of serving this Brownie Hot Fudge Sundae lies in its thoughtful garnishes. Whipped cream is a must for lightness, but don’t overlook the chopped amaretto cherries which bring brightness and little bursts of juicy sweetness. Toasted almonds impart a nutty crunch that contrasts perfectly with the smooth ice cream and fudgy brownie. Finally, don’t forget the flaky sea salt for that subtle, savory pop.

Side Dishes

This rich, decadent Brownie Hot Fudge Sundae is best enjoyed as a grand finale on its own, but for a balanced treat, you can serve it alongside a fresh fruit salad or a light espresso. The fruit will provide refreshing acidity to counter the richness, while espresso pairs wonderfully with chocolate’s deep flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a show-stopping presentation, serve the sundae in clear glass parfait dishes layered visibly with brownie pieces, ice cream, fudge sauce, and toppings. You could also try using mini mason jars for individual portions, tied with a ribbon for a charming personal touch perfect for parties or gifts.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers from your Brownie Hot Fudge Sundae, store the brownie and ice cream components separately. The hot fudge sauce should be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to two months to maintain its luscious consistency and flavor.

Freezing

The hot fudge sauce freezes beautifully for up to six months—just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating gently. Brownies freeze well too, but ice cream should be consumed fresh for the best experience. Consider reserving only what you plan to serve at a time to avoid freezer burn on leftovers.

Reheating

When you’re ready to enjoy the sauce again, reheat the Red Wine Hot Fudge in 30-second intervals in the microwave (without the metal lid), stirring between each session until the sauce reaches your ideal pouring temperature. This ensures a smooth, glossy chocolate coating without scorching.

FAQs

Can I make the Red Wine Hot Fudge sauce without alcohol?

Absolutely! For an alcohol-free version, simply omit the red wine and amaretto cherry juice. You can substitute with more heavy cream and a splash of cherry juice or vanilla extract for a similar depth of flavor.

What type of brownies work best for this sundae?

Chocolate cherry brownies work wonderfully as their fruity notes complement the red wine sauce and cherries perfectly. You can use homemade or store-bought brownies, just make sure they are dense and fudgy to hold up under the toppings.

Can I prepare this dessert in advance for a party?

Yes, you can prep the hot fudge sauce and baked brownies ahead of time. When it’s time to serve, assemble the sundaes quickly with freshly scooped ice cream and whipped cream for the best taste and texture.

Can I use a different type of nut instead of almonds?

Certainly! Toasted pecans, walnuts, or hazelnuts all add lovely textures and flavors that complement the chocolate and cherries. Just make sure to toast them lightly to bring out their aroma.

How can I make this sundae healthier?

For a lighter version, try using lower-sugar brownies, sugar-free or reduced-sugar ice cream, and reduce the amount of brown sugar in the sauce. You can also swap heavy cream for coconut cream to add a dairy-free twist.

Final Thoughts

The Brownie Hot Fudge Sundae is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of rich, layered flavors and textures that bring joy with every spoonful. Whether you’re winding down after a long day or impressing friends at your next get-together, this indulgent treat never fails to hit the sweet spot. Trust me, once you try this decadent delight, it will quickly become your go-to for chocolate cravings and cozy nights in.

Brownie Hot Fudge Sundae Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 27 reviews

Author: Ella
Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes (includes cooling time)
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in a decadent Brownie Hot Fudge Sundae featuring rich chocolate cherry brownies topped with creamy chocolate chip ice cream and a luscious homemade red wine hot fudge sauce. Garnished with whipped cream, chopped amaretto cherries, toasted almonds, and flaky sea salt, this dessert offers a perfect balance of sweetness, texture, and depth of flavor for an unforgettable treat.

Instructions

Make Red Wine Hot Fudge Sauce: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, whisk together red wine, heavy cream, corn syrup, and brown sugar. Warm over medium-low heat until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to simmer gently.
Add Butter: Stir in butter and whisk constantly until it has completely melted into the mixture. Remove the pan from heat.
Melt Chocolate: Add chopped bittersweet chocolate, amaretto cherry juice (if using), vanilla extract, and kosher salt to the warm mixture. Let it sit undisturbed for 2 minutes to allow the chocolate to melt, then whisk thoroughly until smooth and uniform.
Cool and Store Sauce: Pour the hot fudge sauce evenly into two pint-sized mason jars. Let it cool for at least 1 hour to thicken before serving. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 months or freeze for up to 6 months. When ready to use, heat in 30-second intervals in the microwave, stirring between each, until desired consistency is reached.
Assemble the Sundaes: Place one chocolate cherry brownie on each of 12 serving plates. Top each brownie with a scoop of chocolate chocolate chip ice cream. Drizzle generously with the homemade red wine hot fudge sauce.
Garnish and Serve: Add a generous dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream atop the ice cream. Sprinkle with chopped amaretto cherries and toasted sliced almonds. Finish with a few pinches of flaky sea salt for a delightful contrast. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

To toast almonds, spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and fragrant.
The amaretto cherry juice adds a lovely depth of flavor but can be omitted if unavailable.
Use good-quality bittersweet chocolate for a richer fudge sauce.
For a dairy-free variation, substitute heavy cream and butter with coconut cream and plant-based butter, and ensure brownies and ice cream are dairy-free.
Flaky sea salt is essential for the finishing touch to balance the sweetness and enhance flavors.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Stovetop (for fudge sauce), no-bake assembly
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 sundae (including brownie, ice cream, fudge sauce, and toppings)
Calories: 620 kcal
Sugar: 45 g
Sodium: 180 mg
Fat: 38 g
Saturated Fat: 22 g
Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
Trans Fat: 0.5 g
Carbohydrates: 64 g
Fiber: 4 g
Protein: 7 g
Cholesterol: 90 mg