Coit Tower from Swensen's features layers of rich vanilla ice cream swirled with creamy caramel and crunchy praline pieces, topped with whipped cream and a cherry, delivering a delightful blend of smooth, sweet, and nutty flavors in every bite.
Equipments
- Ice cream scooper
- Serving dish or sundae glass
- Spoon (for drizzling caramel)
- Spatula or small ladle (for layering)
- Whipped cream dispenser or can
- Cherry picker or tongs
- Freezer (for ice cream storage)
- Praline crusher or bowl (for holding praline pieces)
Ingredients
- 2 cups vanilla ice cream
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce
- 1/3 cup praline pieces
- 1/2 cup whipped cream
- 1 maraschino cherry
Vanilla ice cream should be well-frozen to maintain texture when scooping, while caramel sauce must be smooth and slightly warm for easy drizzling. Praline pieces add a crunchy contrast and should be crushed just before serving to retain freshness. Whipped cream consistency plays a key role; use a dispenser or can for a light, airy topping that complements the dessert without overpowering it. A maraschino cherry provides the final pop of color and sweetness, so choose one with vibrant red hue and firm texture. Your homemade Coit Tower from Swensen's copycat menu captures the iconic dessert's perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and nutty layers.
Instructions
- Place serving dish or sundae glass in preparation area.
- Scoop vanilla ice cream into the dish, creating the first layer.
- Drizzle caramel sauce over the layer of ice cream using a spoon.
- Sprinkle praline pieces on top.
- Repeat layering with remaining ice cream, caramel sauce, and praline pieces as desired.
- Use spatula or small ladle to evenly distribute layers.
- Top with whipped cream using the dispenser or can.
- Place a maraschino cherry on top using a cherry picker or tongs.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Coit Tower from Swensen's copycat menu can be adapted by substituting caramel sauce with dulce de leche for a richer flavor profile. If praline pieces are unavailable, crushed toffee or pecans can provide a similar crunchy texture. You can layer the ingredients in any clear glass to showcase the dessert's appealing swirls and textures. Use a spoon to carefully drizzle your caramel alternative for even distribution without melting the ice cream. Keep your ice cream well-frozen until serving to maintain the perfect consistency for scooping and layering.
Tips
Keep the ice cream in the freezer until you're ready to scoop to prevent melting and maintain the layers' integrity. Use the ice cream scooper dipped in warm water for smooth, clean scoops that create neat layers. Drizzle caramel sauce evenly with a spoon to avoid clumping and ensure a balanced sweetness. When adding praline pieces, sprinkle gently to keep their crunch and prevent them from sinking into the ice cream layers.
Nutritions
Your Coit Tower sundae from Swensen's contains approximately 450-500 calories per serving, combining the usual rich energy content of vanilla ice cream with the added sugars and fats from caramel sauce, whipped cream, and praline pieces. Vanilla ice cream provides calcium and protein, while caramel sauce adds sugars and small amounts of fat. Praline pieces contribute a nutty crunch, adding some protein and healthy fats, but also increasing the sugar and calorie count. Whipped cream and the maraschino cherry enhance flavor and texture, contributing minimal nutrients but some added sugars and fats.
Storage
Store leftover Coit Tower from Swensen's in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn and maintain the texture of the vanilla ice cream, caramel, and praline layers. Keep the dessert in your freezer at 0degF (-18degC) or below for up to one week to preserve freshness and flavor. Avoid refreezing once thawed to maintain the quality of the whipped cream and cherry topping.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute the vanilla ice cream with coffee or chocolate flavors to create a richer variation. Instead of caramel sauce, try using salted caramel or butterscotch for a slightly different sweetness profile. Toast the praline pieces lightly before adding to enhance their crunch and bring out a deeper nutty flavor. Consider freezing the assembled layers briefly before adding whipped cream to maintain a firmer texture and prevent melting.
Allergies
Swensen's Coit Tower contains common allergens such as dairy from vanilla ice cream and whipped cream, as well as nuts from praline pieces, which may trigger reactions in those with lactose intolerance or nut allergies. The caramel sauce and maraschino cherry may include additives or colorings potentially causing sensitivities. You should check ingredient labels carefully if you have food allergies or sensitivities to avoid adverse reactions.
Why this recipe?
Swensen's Coit Tower menu is loved for its rich variety of classic American ice cream flavors combined with nostalgic, handcrafted toppings that evoke a unique San Francisco charm. Customers appreciate the quality ingredients and the creative combinations that deliver both timeless and innovative taste experiences. Your chance to recreate the Coit Tower menu at home allows you to enjoy these signature flavors while customizing them to your personal preferences. Making a copycat version is worth it because it brings the authentic Swensen's experience directly to your kitchen, ensuring fresh and satisfying desserts whenever you crave.