News & Stories / 7 Must-Have Toppings for Frozen Custard and Ice Cream Sundae Bars
Assorted Freddy’s frozen custard sundaes with different toppings

7 Must-Have Toppings for Frozen Custard and Ice Cream Sundae Bars

January 15, 2026

For a celebratory birthday party, a surprise gesture of appreciation for your hard-working staff and so many other occasions, a decadent frozen custard or ice cream sundae bar is a fun and interactive choice. In addition to taking a DIY approach to turning this idea into a reality, catering services may also offer frozen custard or ice cream sundae bar catering, which includes everything you and your guests need to make your scrumptious sundae creations. Below, find a list of several essential toppings that often appear in homemade or catered sundae bars!

 

7 Tasty Toppings for Your Catered Frozen Custard or Ice Cream Sundae Bars

 

As you explore your options for frozen custard or ice cream sundae bar catering, the assortment of toppings is one important consideration. While the choice of rich and creamy frozen custard or ice cream also matters, the selection of toppings provides visual appeal for your table and further entices your guests to the display. Here are 7 must-have toppings frequently found as part of sundae bars:

 

1. Sauces

 

Hot fudge and hot caramel are two popular sauce choices for sundae bars. However, there are many other sauces that you might consider including, such as strawberry sauce and peanut butter sauce. For even more sauce inspiration, check out this collection of sundae ideas from Taste of Home!

 

2. Syrups

 

In addition to heavier and thicker sauces like hot fudge, syrups offer a similar spectrum of flavors but are typically lighter and thinner in consistency. From chocolate and raspberry to mint and coffee, syrups can be drizzled on top of sundaes or swirled into these creations!

 

3. Nuts

 

Chopped peanuts and toasted pecans as included in the Signature Turtle are two toppings that go well with a variety of sundae combinations. Consider adding pistachios for vibrant color or candied or spiced nut preparations, like the ones in this collection of sundae toppings from Food & Wine, for even more layers of flavor. Nuts are also a great way to bring different textures into a sundae!

 

4. Candy

 

Peanut butter cups, gummy worms and many other candies are delicious on their own but also serve as exciting toppings for sundaes. Depending on the candy, this selection can bring extra color to a sundae or provide even more layers of flavor and texture to it. Are your guests asking what they can contribute to a party that has a sundae bar? As an easy and fun way for them to be involved, consider requesting that they bring their own favorite candy to supplement what may be included in your ice cream sundae bar catering order.

 

5. Fruit

 

From fresh strawberries and raspberries to sliced, ripe peaches and bananas, fruit brings a spectrum of sweet flavors to sundaes! These offerings are also nice for guests who want to enjoy a sundae but may be looking for a lighter treat overall. In addition to fresh fruit and sauce or syrup preparations, you might also include roasted, grilled or even brûléed fruit pieces!

 

6. Baked Goods

 

Crushed cookies, cake pieces and bites of other baked goods bring even more color, texture and flavor to sundaes. The party theme or season might also inspire the baked items to include on your sundae bar. For example, pumpkin pie slices or snickerdoodles might be fitting for your fall festivities, while holiday sundae bars might include chocolate and peppermint cookies!

 

7. Sprinkles

 

In thinking about a sundae, the vision that comes to mind likely includes a bright red cherry and a dollop of fresh whipped cream. Beyond these two familiar flourishes for sundaes, another option may be colorful sprinkles, perhaps choosing seasonal designs for a particular holiday or time of year. Alternatively, marshmallow fluff or cotton candy might provide a similarly exciting finish to a sundae. Instead of the cherry, a fresh strawberry or a peanut butter cup might be a better choice for the peak point of a sundae and highlight the dominant flavor of the dish.

 

For a unique and inviting dessert idea for your next party or event, consider frozen custard or ice cream sundae bar catering! At Freddy’s, the Create Your Own Sundae Bar includes two quarts of our rich and creamy frozen custard – one chocolate and one vanilla. Our sundae bar catering also includes must-have toppings like fresh strawberries, hot fudge, REESE’S Peanut Butter Cups, and more! To learn more about our sundae bar and other Freddy’s favorites that you may want to have catered for your upcoming event, check out our catering menu today!