We’re a few days into August, and even though July was National Ice Cream Month, I couldn’t resist squeezing in a few more ideas for everyone’s favorite summer treat. I’m planning a small ice cream party for friends, and in the process I tested several simple, crowd-pleasing recipes that I’m excited to share now.
I partnered with Nestlé for three easy recipes that incorporate ice cream as part of their “There’s an ice cream for that” campaign. I taste-tested everything ahead of time, and these recipes are ready for your next gathering: homemade matcha waffle cones, mint chocolate chip donut sundaes, and my personal favorite, peaches and cream soda floats. The floats work great as either a boozy or non-alcoholic option.
Buy and save: There’s a special coupon to save $2 when you purchase three participating Nestlé ice cream products. If you plan to make all three recipes, buying the ice cream together and using the coupon is an easy way to save.
First up: matcha waffle cones. These give a subtle, unexpected green tea flavor and a pretty green hue to your cones. The matcha is delicate—not overpowering—and the cones can be made ahead so you’re always prepared for last-minute get-togethers.
Here’s what you’ll need to make about 8–10 matcha waffle cones:
How to Make Matcha Waffle Cones
- 1 cup all-purpose flour, sifted
- 1 packed teaspoon matcha powder
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1/3 cup cream
- 2 eggs
- 4 tbsp butter, melted and cooled
- 1 tsp vanilla
- 1/4 tsp salt
- cooking spray
Method: Preheat your waffle cone maker. In a bowl, whisk the melted butter, sugar, and salt until light and fluffy. Add the cream, eggs, and vanilla and mix to combine. Stir in the flour, then fold in the matcha powder, taking care not to overmix.
Spray the waffle iron with cooking spray and spoon the batter into the center. When the waffle is cooked, remove it immediately and shape it around a cone roller while warm. Hold the waffle in place until it cools and holds its shape.
These cones pair beautifully with rich flavors like Häagen-Dazs Caramel Cone or Häagen-Dazs Non-Dairy Chocolate Salted Fudge Truffle. The caramel swirls and crunchy chocolate pieces in Caramel Cone especially complement the subtle bitterness of matcha.
Next, ditch the banana for a grown-up twist on the classic split and make donut sundaes. They’re playful, decadent, and easy to assemble with ingredients you likely already have on hand—perfect for a quick treat after work or an afternoon snack with friends.
Here’s what you’ll need to make one mint chocolate chip donut sundae:
Mint Chocolate Chip Donut Sundaes
- 1 chocolate donut (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 large scoop of Edy’s Slow Churned Mint Chocolate Chip
- 1 pirouline rolled wafer
- whipped cream
Method: Place the donut on a plate and add a generous scoop of mint chocolate chip ice cream on top. Insert a broken pirouline wafer into the ice cream, add a dollop of whipped cream, and serve. For extra flair, garnish with a sprig of fresh mint or a drizzle of hot fudge.
Finally, my favorite from this set: peaches and cream soda floats. These are an elevated, fresh take on the childhood classic. Made with fresh peach puree and creamy vanilla ice cream, they taste like a peachy cream soda—bright, refreshing, and surprisingly simple to make.
They’re ideal for parties because they look polished but are easy to assemble. You can make them non-alcoholic or add a splash of vanilla vodka for a boozy version.
Here’s what you’ll need for one peaches and cream soda float:
Peaches and Cream Soda Floats
- 1 ripe peach
- 2 scoops Häagen-Dazs Vanilla
- 3 ounces vanilla bean soda
- 3 ounces peach soda
- edible flowers and 1 sage leaf for garnish
- optional: splash of vanilla vodka (2–3 ounces)
Method: Peel and slice the peach, then puree it in a blender or food processor. Strain the puree through a fine sieve for a smooth texture, reserving a spoonful to top the float.
Place the peach puree in the bottom of a glass, add two scoops of Häagen-Dazs Vanilla, then pour equal parts vanilla bean soda and peach soda over the ice cream. Finish with the reserved peach puree, a sage leaf, and edible flowers for a pretty presentation.
Optional boozy version: Add a splash of vanilla vodka before pouring in the sodas for an adult take on the float.
Those are the recipes I’m testing for my ice cream party—simple, festive, and delicious. Check back later for the full event reveal and photos from the party.
Photography: Amelia Lawrence
If you love ice cream, try these recipes and tell me which one you like best. If you can only make one, start with the peaches and cream soda float—its fresh, creamy flavor is hard to beat. The non-alcoholic version has been my go-to all summer, and it’s a favorite pick for entertaining.
Which recipe would you try first? Any memories these treats bring back from your childhood?
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This post is sponsored by Nestlé. All opinions are my own. Thank you for supporting the brands that help keep Paper and Stitch running.