If you’ve ever bitten into a crunchy shell only to discover creamy ice cream waiting inside, you know why ice cream tacos are such a hit. They combine the fun of tacos with the sweetness of dessert. Imagine waffle shells, chocolate drizzles, sprinkles, and scoops of ice cream all lined up like a DIY dessert bar. That’s what we’re making today: build-your-own ice cream tacos—the kind of treat that turns any gathering into a sugar-filled fiesta.
Whether you’re looking for a playful weekend project, planning a party, or just want to recreate that nostalgic Choco Taco vibe, this guide covers it all.
What Are Ice Cream Tacos?
Think of them as dessert tacos made from waffle shells instead of tortillas. You fill them with ice cream, then top them with sauces, candy bits, nuts, or anything else your sweet tooth craves. The shell acts like a crunchy cone, while the filling lets you go wild with flavors.
They’re sometimes called chocolate-covered ice cream tacos, waffle taco ice cream, or even dessert tacos—but the idea stays the same: take a taco format, fill it with ice cream, and decorate it like your favorite sundae.
Why You’ll Love Making Ice Cream Tacos
- Hands-on fun – It’s like a taco night, but sweeter.
- Customizable – Everyone can build their own dessert taco exactly how they like it.
- Party-perfect – Great for birthdays, backyard BBQs, or family movie nights.
- Nostalgic – Brings back memories of the classic Choco Taco.
And the best part? You don’t need fancy equipment. A few simple ingredients and you’re good to go.
Ingredients for Ice Cream Tacos
Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
For the taco shells:
- Waffle cones (or flat waffle cookies)
- A little warm water (to soften and shape them)
For the filling:
- Ice cream (vanilla, chocolate, strawberry—or go crazy with your favorites)
- Whipped cream
For the toppings:
- Melted chocolate (dark, milk, or white)
- Sprinkles, crushed cookies, chopped nuts
- Mini marshmallows (or make marshmallow pops with sprinkles for a fun side treat)
- Caramel or fudge drizzle
Step-by-Step: How to Make Ice Cream Tacos
Step 1: Shape the Waffle Taco Shells
- Dip waffle cones quickly in warm water. Don’t soak them, just enough to soften.
- Gently flatten and fold them over a rolling pin or edge of a bowl. Hold until they set into a taco shape.
- Let them firm up on parchment paper.
(Shortcut: You can also buy ready-made waffle shells if you don’t want to shape your own.)
Step 2: Coat the Shells
- Melt chocolate in the microwave in 30-second bursts.
- Dip the edges of your waffle shells into the chocolate.
- While it’s still wet, add crushed cookies, sprinkles, or nuts.
- Set aside to harden.
Step 3: Add the Ice Cream
- Scoop softened ice cream into each shell. Don’t overstuff—remember, toppings are still coming!
- Place them on a tray and freeze for 15–20 minutes so they don’t collapse.
Step 4: Top It Off
- Drizzle with more melted chocolate or caramel.
- Sprinkle candy bits, cookie crumbs, or even cereal.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream for the final touch.
There you go—your very own ice cream tacos ready to devour.
Creative Ice Cream Taco Ideas
Want to take things up a notch? Try these variations:
- Classic Choco Taco Style: Vanilla ice cream, dipped in milk chocolate, topped with peanuts.
- Brownie Taco: Swap waffle shells for thin brownie rounds.
- Fruity Fiesta: Strawberry ice cream with fresh berries and whipped cream.
- Cookie Monster Taco: Cookie dough ice cream inside, crushed Oreos on top.
- Breakfast-for-Dessert Taco: Waffle shell filled with maple ice cream and bacon bits.
Marshmallow Pops with Sprinkles – The Perfect Sidekick
Pair your tacos with something easy and fun: marshmallow pops with sprinkles.
- Stick marshmallows onto lollipop sticks.
- Dip halfway into melted chocolate.
- Roll in colorful sprinkles.
- Let set on wax paper.
They look great on the table next to your tacos and double as a grab-and-go snack.
Tips for Trying This at Home
- Freeze between steps: After filling your shells, let them firm up before adding more toppings.
- Don’t overfill: A little ice cream goes a long way, or your taco will break.
- Keep extras frozen: Ice cream tacos can be prepped ahead and stored in the freezer for up to a week.
- Make it a bar: Set out toppings in bowls so guests can decorate their own.
- Experiment with shells: Waffle shells are classic, but try chocolate chip cookies or crepes folded like tacos.
Final Thoughts
Building your own ice cream tacos is part recipe, part activity, and all fun. Whether you stick with classic choco taco vibes or go wild with toppings, these sweet tacos are guaranteed to be the star of your table. Add some marshmallow pops with sprinkles on the side, and you’ve got yourself a dessert spread that’s playful, customizable, and downright delicious.
So grab some waffle cones, scoop that ice cream, and let’s taco ‘bout dessert in the best way possible.
Build-Your-Own Ice Cream Tacos
Ingredients
Method
- Dip the waffle cones briefly in warm water to soften.
- Flatten slightly, then fold gently over a rolling pin or bowl edge until they form taco shapes.
- Place on parchment paper to dry and firm up.
- Melt chocolate in the microwave in 30-second bursts.
- Dip the top edges of the taco shells in chocolate.
- Add sprinkles, nuts, or cookie crumbs while the chocolate is wet.
- Set aside to harden.
- Scoop softened ice cream into each taco shell.
- Don’t overfill—leave room for toppings.
- Place filled shells on a tray and freeze for 15–20 minutes to firm up.
- Drizzle caramel, fudge, or more melted chocolate.
- Sprinkle crushed cookies, nuts, or candy.
- Finish with whipped cream or marshmallows.
- Serve right away for a gooey bite, or keep in the freezer until you’re ready.
Notes
- If you want the shells extra crunchy, line the inside with a thin coat of melted chocolate before adding ice cream.
- These can be made ahead of time and frozen, but toppings like whipped cream should be added right before serving.
- Kids love decorating their own—turn it into a taco bar for parties.
FAQs About Ice Cream Tacos
1. Can I make ice cream tacos without waffle shells?
Yes! You can use thin brownies, crepes, or even tortillas lightly fried and sugared.
2. How do I keep the shells from getting soggy?
Adding a thin layer of melted chocolate inside the shell helps seal it before adding ice cream.
3. What ice cream flavors work best?
Classic flavors like vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry always work, but you can get creative with cookie dough, mint chip, or even mango.
4. How far in advance can I make them?
You can assemble them a day ahead. Just keep them in an airtight container in the freezer until serving.
5. Can kids help make ice cream tacos?
Definitely! Kids love dipping the shells in chocolate and adding sprinkles. Just handle the hot melted chocolate for them.
