Skip to main content

Sam’s Sundae

This unique combination of ice cream, citrus-infused olive oil, and salt is one of the Creamery’s best-selling sundaes; it was even featured on the Food Network’s show The Best Thing I Ever Ate. It may seem strange, but believe me, it’s really good. The oil congeals as it cools and creates a luscious mouthfeel, while the salt brightens the flavors and provides an interesting crunchy texture. The whipped cream is optional but really balances out the richness of the sundae. Our friend Giuseppe Cagnoni, an artisan food producer in Umbria, inspired this dessert when I tasted his Eturia brand oil infused with bergamot (which gives Earl Grey tea its distinctive taste). You can also try other intensely flavored oils, including orange or lemon oil, citrus-infused olive oil, or even toasted sesame oil.

Recipe information

  • Yield

    SERVES 1

Ingredients

Chocolate ice cream (preferably a deep, dark variety)
Bergamot-infused extra-virgin olive oil
Maldon salt, fleur de sel, kosher salt, or other large, flaky salt
Freshly whipped cream (optional)

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Put a few scoops of ice cream in a bowl, drizzle with about a teaspoon of oil, and sprinkle with a pinch or two of salt. Garnish with a large spoonful of whipped cream.

  2. TIP

    Step 2

    Vanilla ice cream with blood orange oil and sea salt is another great combo—it’s like a cream pop.

Bi-Rite Market's Eat Good Food
Read More
Invert the ratio of gin to vermouth for a party-friendly and slightly lighter drinking experience.
No grill needed for this just-charred-enough sweet and spicy chicken.
Loosely inspired by pasta Amatriciana, a few pounds of zucchini stand in for tomatoes.
Like banana pudding cake and beer can chicken.
Filberts, goobers, scaly bark nuts: Explore the world beyond almonds in this guide.
Turn humble onions into this thrifty yet luxe pasta dinner.
Our go-to banana bread recipe is moist, nutty, and incredibly easy to make.
Like swordfish steaks with tomatoes and Peruvian-style tofu.