Now that the warmer weather is upon us, the kids are begging for beach balls and popsicles every time we hit the grocery store.  I have romantic visions of old-fashioned ice-cream socials, but they are a bit more interested in tree climbing and cowboy games.  Being the mother of two boys sometimes necessitates getting a tad creative (read: wiley).  This is where the concept for ‘Daddy’s Ice Cream Bar’ came about.  We dressed in costumes (any excuse to wear the Little-House-on-the-Prairie outfit of course).  After setting up tables with flowing cloths in the garden, I started the creation of the bar.  Three flavours of ice cream set in crushed ice and antique vessels to hold toppings.  Long spoons.  Dainty napkins.  (I can’t believe I actually just used that word).  And edible flowers to add the final touches.  Despite my creativity, the kids and Daddy decided that the toppings pretty much made the whole event.

The trick with sundaes is the sticky substance that binds sprinkles and fruit to the ice cream.  (Or multiple substances – ahem.)  Nestled in with the ice creams was the perfect segway from frozen to sauce.  You just can’t get the texture, frostiness and flavor with plain whipping cream.  And what a coup for Daddy’s ice cream bar!  The chocolate sauce slides to the side and the candy, fruit, nuts and flowers adorn the top. Eating my own creation, I am in heaven…  And I didn’t even know what else could be done with this miracle ingredient.

As I discovered this ‘cool’ new topping, I turned to my beloved Pinterest.  Wow.  Who knew?!  Frozen hearts floating in hot chocolate, or smeared on the inside of a croissant (aaagh), or as a surprise pancake topping.  Wow. That sure beats my icing sugar.

And as for Daddy’s Ice Cream Bar?  The tablecloths and fancy outfits may have not be so smart.  Perhaps next time we’ll wear wear overalls.