by Jenni Eickelberg
Scoops, Swirls, and Sweet Surprises
There’s something undeniably joyful about an ice cream sundae. Whether it’s the swirl of whipped cream, the drizzle of hot fudge, or the cherry perched on top, sundaes are a dessert that invites indulgence, creativity, and nostalgia. While the exact origin of the sundae has been debated, one small town in Wisconsin proudly claims the title: Two Rivers.
According to local lore, the first sundae was served in Two Rivers in 1881 when a customer at Ed Berners’ soda fountain requested chocolate syrup over a scoop of ice cream—an unusual request at the time. The treat became so popular it was soon offered every Sunday, eventually earning the name “sundae.” Today, Two Rivers celebrates this sweet legacy with pride, and visitors can even see a replica of the original soda fountain at the Washington House Museum.
But the sundae has come a long way since its humble beginning. At its core, a sundae is a simple concept: ice cream topped with syrup. Yet the possibilities are endless. Classic versions feature vanilla ice cream with hot fudge, caramel, or strawberry sauce, often topped with whipped cream, chopped nuts, and a maraschino cherry. But modern sundaes have evolved into elaborate creations that reflect regional tastes, seasonal ingredients, and culinary imagination.
Toppings now range from crushed cookies and brownie bites to fresh fruit, cereal, candy, and even savory elements like pretzels or bacon. Some sundaes are built in layers, parfait-style, while others are served in edible waffle bowls or Mason jars. The base itself has also diversified—many shops now offer frozen yogurt, dairy-free alternatives, or even frozen custard.
Custard, in particular, has become a favorite in the Midwest. Made with egg yolks in addition to cream and sugar, frozen custard is denser and creamier than traditional ice cream. Its rich texture makes it an ideal foundation for sundaes, holding up well under warm toppings and mix-ins. The smooth consistency also allows flavors to shine.
One of the most exciting trends in sundae culture is the fusion of global flavors. From churro sundaes with cinnamon-dusted pastries to tropical versions with mango, coconut, and chili-lime seasoning, today’s sundaes are as diverse as the people who enjoy them. Some shops even offer build-your-own sundae bars, where customers can mix and match ingredients to create their perfect dessert.
Whether you’re a purist who sticks to hot fudge and vanilla or an adventurer piling on mochi, matcha, and marshmallows, the ice cream sundae remains a dessert that’s endlessly customizable and universally loved. It’s a dish that sparks nostalgia and brings people together—one scoop at a time. Whether enjoyed in a glass dish at a retro diner, scooped into a waffle bowl at a local fair, or served with a twist of cultural flair, the sundae is a symbol of indulgence and joy. And thanks to a little town in Wisconsin, where it all began, every bite carries a scoop of history. So, the next time you dig into a sundae, remember: you’re not just enjoying dessert—you’re tasting a piece of tradition.
Be sure to check out these local faves for their delicious ice cream treats!
Charlie’s Drive-In | 806 W. Main St, Hortonville | www.charliesdrivein.com
Culver’s | Locations in Darboy, Appleton, Little Chute, Neenah, Grande Chute, and opening soon in Combined Locks! | www.culvers.com
Dick’s Drive-In | 1718 Crooks Ave, Kaukauna | www.facebook.com/DicksDriveInKaukauna
Frio Mexican Treats | 131 W. Wisconsin Ave, Appleton | www.friowisconsin.com
Dairy Queen | 1813 N. Richmond St and 2000 Oneida St, Appleton | www.facebook.com/appletondairyqueen
Parker John’s | 124 Main St, Menasha and 2331 E. Evergreen Dr, Appleton | parkerjohns.com
This article was originally published in the July 2025 issue of Appleton Monthly Magazine.
