Copycat Costco Caramel Brownie Sundae Recipe

If you have a serious sweet tooth and a weakness for indulgent desserts, the Copycat Costco Caramel Brownie Sundae Recipe is going to rock your world. Imagine layers of fudgy brownies, creamy vanilla ice cream, and luscious caramel sauce all coming together to create a chocolatey, gooey, perfectly balanced treat that feels like an extravagant ice cream parlor sundae right in your own kitchen. The best part? It only takes about five minutes to put together, so you can enjoy that melt-in-your-mouth magic whenever the craving strikes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are marvelously simple but absolutely essential for nailing the rich textures and sweet flavors that define the Copycat Costco Caramel Brownie Sundae Recipe. Each one plays its part, from the whipped cream’s airy lightness to the chewy brownie chunks that bring that classic chocolate punch.

• 1 cup heavy cream: This is the base for your whipped cream, adding a creamy and fluffy top layer.
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream without any graininess for a smooth finish.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings a warm, comforting depth to the whipped cream.
• 1 cup caramel sauce, divided: The star ingredient for that sticky, buttery sweetness that defines the sundae.
• 1 batch store-bought brownies, cut into bite-sized pieces, divided: Using store-bought brownies cuts down on time but keeps the fudgy, chocolatey goodness intact.
• 2 cups vanilla ice cream, divided: The creamy, cool balance to the rich brownies and warm caramel.

How to Make Copycat Costco Caramel Brownie Sundae Recipe

Step 1: Whip the Heavy Cream

Start by whipping the heavy cream until soft peaks form. This creates the light, velvety whipped cream that will crown your sundae. It’s important to watch carefully so it doesn’t turn grainy or overwhip. Soft peaks mean the cream will gently hold a shape but remain supple.

Step 2: Sweeten and Flavor the Whipped Cream

Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the whipped cream, then continue whipping until you reach medium peaks. This ensures the cream is sweet but still airy enough to spread beautifully over the sundae without collapsing.

Step 3: Prepare the Glasses with Caramel Drizzle

Take tall sundae glasses and drizzle caramel sauce generously down the inside walls. This step not only adds sweetness and gooey texture but also creates a stunning visual effect that gets everyone excited before even digging in.

Step 4: Layer the Brownies and Ice Cream

Place a handful of the brownie pieces into the bottom of each glass. These chewy brownie bites give a solid base and intense chocolate flavor. After that, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream which will contrast perfectly with the richness of the brownies.

Step 5: Add More Caramel and Ice Cream Layers

Drizzle a bit more caramel sauce over the ice cream layer, then add another scoop of ice cream and finish with another drizzle of caramel. These alternating layers ensure every spoonful is packed with balanced textures and flavor complexity.

Step 6: Top with Whipped Cream and Garnish

Finally, spoon the whipped cream on top to create that iconic fluffy peak. Sprinkle a few reserved brownie pieces over the whipped cream and add a last drizzle of caramel sauce. Serve immediately while the ice cream is cold and the caramel is delightfully sticky.

How to Serve Copycat Costco Caramel Brownie Sundae Recipe

Garnishes

Beyond the classic brownie pieces and caramel drizzle, try adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture contrast. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt over the caramel can take the flavor experience up a notch, creating that perfect salty-sweet harmony.

Side Dishes

This sundae is unbeatable as a stand-alone dessert, but if you want to pair it, think simple: fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or bananas add freshness, balancing the richness. A small cup of hot coffee or espresso also makes an excellent companion, cutting through the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve this Copycat Costco Caramel Brownie Sundae Recipe in mini mason jars or clear dessert cups for parties. Layer the ingredients neatly, and let guests see all the appetizing layers. You could even create individual brownie sundaes on small plates with a scoop of ice cream and sauce drizzle, perfect for informal gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, cover them tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to airtight containers and refrigerate. The brownies may soften a bit in the ice cream, but the flavors will still be delicious for up to a day after assembly.

Freezing

While you can freeze the components separately—like brownies and caramel sauce—it’s best not to freeze the fully assembled sundae. Ice cream texture suffers when refrozen after melting, so assembling fresh is recommended for the best experience.

Reheating

This dessert is best enjoyed cold, so reheating isn’t recommended. However, if you want to warm leftover brownies to enjoy separately, doing so gently in the microwave for about 10 seconds can bring back some of their fudgy softness.

FAQs

Can I use homemade brownies instead of store-bought?

Absolutely! Homemade brownies add a personal touch and can make the sundae even more special. Just ensure they’re cut into bite-sized pieces for easy layering.

Is there a way to make this sundae dairy-free?

You can substitute with dairy-free ice cream and coconut cream for whipping. Look for a dairy-free caramel sauce or make your own with coconut milk to keep it vegan-friendly.

How many servings does the recipe make?

This recipe serves about eight people, making it perfect for sharing at gatherings or treating yourself all week long.

Can I prepare the caramel sauce ahead of time?

Yes, caramel sauce can be made or purchased ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Just warm it slightly before drizzling to get that smooth pour.

What’s the best type of vanilla ice cream to use?

Go for a rich, creamy vanilla ice cream—homemade or premium store-bought—to complement the deep chocolate and sweet caramel. Avoid vanilla with strong artificial flavoring for the best result.

Final Thoughts

Now is the perfect time to treat yourself to the Copycat Costco Caramel Brownie Sundae Recipe. It’s quick, luxurious, and feels like a dreamy indulgence without leaving your home. Once you whip up this dessert, you’ll see why it’s a fan favorite, and it might just become your go-to sweet treat for celebrations or cozy evenings alike.

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