The Surprising Flavors That Go Well With Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars

Strawberry shortcake ice cream bars are a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of strawberries with the rich, creamy texture of ice cream and the crumbly goodness of shortcake. While they are delicious on their own, pairing them with other flavors can elevate your dessert experience to new heights. From fruits and nuts to sauces and beverages, there are numerous surprising combinations that complement the flavor profile of strawberry shortcake ice cream bars, making them an even more indulgent and satisfying treat.

Fruity Complements

Given that strawberry shortcake ice cream bars already feature a strong strawberry flavor, adding other fruits can create a refreshing contrast or enhance the existing taste.

1. Bananas:

The creamy, mild sweetness of bananas pairs beautifully with the tartness of strawberries. Slicing a banana and serving it alongside your strawberry shortcake ice cream bar adds a tropical flair to the dessert. The soft texture of bananas also complements the creamy ice cream and crunchy shortcake, making each bite a delightful mix of flavors and textures.

2. Blueberries:

Blueberries provide a juicy, slightly tart contrast to the sweet strawberry flavor. The bright pop of blueberries adds not only a burst of flavor but also a visually appealing color contrast. The combination of strawberries and blueberries is a classic one, and when paired with ice cream, it creates a refreshing and vibrant dessert.

3. Pineapple:

Pineapple’s sweet and tangy flavor profile can create an exciting contrast with the strawberry and shortcake elements. The acidity of pineapple helps to cut through the richness of the ice cream, providing a balanced and zesty finish to the dessert. Grilling the pineapple slices before pairing them with the ice cream bars can add a caramelized sweetness that enhances the overall flavor.

Nutty and Crunchy Additions

Adding a crunchy element can contrast the creamy texture of the ice cream and enhance the overall mouthfeel of the desert.

1. Almonds:

Sliced or slivered almonds provide a subtle nuttiness and a satisfying crunch that pairs well with the sweetness of strawberry shortcake ice cream bars. The mild, buttery flavor of almonds complements the strawberry and shortcake flavors without overpowering them. Toasting the almonds before adding them to the dessert can bring out their natural flavors and add a warm, toasty note.

2. Pistachios:

Pistachios add a vibrant green color and a distinct, slightly sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with strawberries. The crunchy texture of pistachios contrasts nicely with the creaminess of the ice cream, creating a well-rounded dessert experience. Sprinkling chopped pistachios over the ice cream bar or incorporating them into a homemade crust can add both visual appeal and flavor depth.

3. Pecans:

Pecans have a rich, buttery flavor that can add warmth and complexity to the dessert. Their natural sweetness complements the strawberry and shortcake flavors, while their crunchy texture contrasts with the creamy ice cream. Candied pecans, in particular, can add an extra layer of sweetness and a delightful crunch.

Decadent Sauces

A drizzle of sauce can add richness, moisture, and an extra layer of flavor to strawberry shortcake ice cream bars.

1. Chocolate Sauce:

Chocolate and strawberries are a classic pairing that never fails to delight. Drizzling a rich, dark chocolate sauce over your strawberry shortcake ice cream bar adds a touch of bitterness that balances the sweetness of the dessert. For a more indulgent experience, you can also add a sprinkle of sea salt over the chocolate sauce to enhance the flavors.

2. Caramel Sauce:

The buttery sweetness of caramel sauce complements the strawberry and shortcake elements perfectly. The warm, rich flavor of caramel adds depth to the dessert, while its sticky texture contrasts with the creaminess of the ice cream. Adding a hint of sea salt to the caramel sauce can create a sweet-salty balance that elevates the entire dessert.

3. Lemon Curd:

The bright, tangy flavor of lemon curd provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of strawberry shortcake ice cream bars. Lemon curd’s zesty acidity cuts through the richness of the ice cream and adds a burst of citrusy freshness. This pairing is perfect for those who enjoy a more tart and refreshing dessert.

Beverage Pairings

Pairing strawberry shortcake ice cream bars with the right beverage can enhance the flavors and make for a more complete dessert experience.

1. Sparkling Wine:

The effervescence of sparkling wine pairs wonderfully with the creamy texture of ice cream. A glass of brut or rosé sparkling wine can complement the sweetness of the strawberry shortcake ice cream bar, while the bubbles cleanse the palate, making each bite feel fresh and new.

2. Iced Coffee:

The slight bitterness of iced coffee contrasts with the sweetness of the ice cream, creating a balanced flavor profile. A cold brew or iced espresso served alongside a strawberry shortcake ice cream bar adds a refreshing and slightly bitter note that can enhance the overall dessert experience.

3. Green Tea:

The subtle bitterness and earthy notes of green tea can provide a refreshing counterpoint to the sweetness of the ice cream. Serving a chilled or iced green tea with your strawberry shortcake ice cream bar can create a light and refreshing dessert pairing, perfect for a warm day.