The etymology of ice cream sundaes: unraveling the mystery behind the name
What To Know
- By the early 20th century, ice cream sundaes had become a popular dessert served at soda fountains and ice cream parlors across the United States.
- By the Runaways includes the lyrics, “I’m a cherry bomb, a teenage dream / I’m a sundae with whipped cream.
- A sundae is typically made with a single scoop of ice cream, while a banana split is made with three scoops of ice cream.
Ice cream sundaes are a classic dessert enjoyed by people of all ages. But have you ever wondered why they’re called “sundaes”? The answer lies in the history of this beloved treat.
The Origins of Ice Cream Sundaes
The first ice cream sundaes were created in the late 19th century. In 1881, a pharmacist named Edward Berner in Ithaca, New York, topped ice cream with syrup and chocolate sauce. He called his creation the “Sunday Special” because he only sold it on Sundays, when blue laws prohibited the sale of soda.
The Evolution of the Name
Over time, Berner’s “Sunday Special” became known as the “ice cream sundae.” The name “sundae” is a shortened form of “Sunday.” By the early 20th century, ice cream sundaes had become a popular dessert served at soda fountains and ice cream parlors across the United States.
Variations on the Sundae
The classic ice cream sundae consists of ice cream topped with syrup and chocolate sauce. However, over the years, countless variations on the sundae have emerged. Some common toppings include:
- Fruit
- Nuts
- Whipped cream
- Cherries
- Sprinkles
The Sundae as a Cultural Icon
Ice cream sundaes have become a cultural icon in the United States. They are often associated with childhood, nostalgia, and summer fun. Sundaes have been featured in countless movies, TV shows, and songs.
The Sundae in Popular Culture
- The 1979 film “The Jerk” features a memorable scene where the protagonist, Navin Johnson, orders a “chocolate sundae with nuts.”
- The 1988 song “Cherry Bomb” by the Runaways includes the lyrics, “I’m a cherry bomb, a teenage dream / I’m a sundae with whipped cream.”
- The popular children’s book “Where the Wild Things Are” by Maurice Sendak features a scene where Max, the protagonist, eats an ice cream sundae.
The Sundae’s Enduring Appeal
Ice cream sundaes continue to be a beloved dessert because they are:
- Delicious and satisfying
- Customizable to suit individual tastes
- Associated with happy memories
- A symbol of American culture
Wrap-Up: The Sundae’s Sweet Legacy
The ice cream sundae has come a long way since its humble beginnings as Edward Berner’s “Sunday Special.” Today, it is a cherished dessert enjoyed by people of all ages. The next time you indulge in a sundae, take a moment to appreciate its rich history and enduring appeal.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: Why are ice cream sundaes called “sundaes”?
A: Ice cream sundaes are called “sundaes” because they were originally created as a “Sunday Special” that was only sold on Sundays.
Q: Who invented the ice cream sundae?
A: Edward Berner, a pharmacist from Ithaca, New York, is credited with inventing the ice cream sundae in 1881.
Q: What are the most common toppings for ice cream sundaes?
A: The most common toppings for ice cream sundaes include syrup, chocolate sauce, fruit, nuts, whipped cream, cherries, and sprinkles.
Q: What is the difference between a sundae and a banana split?
A: A sundae is typically made with a single scoop of ice cream, while a banana split is made with three scoops of ice cream. Additionally, banana splits are typically served with sliced bananas and a variety of toppings, while sundaes are not.
Q: What is the most popular flavor of ice cream sundae?
A: The most popular flavor of ice cream sundae is chocolate.