Drumstick Sundae Jars Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 (4 ounce) Mason jars
• 4 sugar cones
• 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
• 1/3 cup chopped roasted salted peanuts
• 1 1/2 cups vanilla ice cream

Note: This recipe yields 4 servings. Ingredient amounts adjust automatically, but cooking times and steps remain the same.

Directions

1. Place the Mason jars in the freezer to chill while you prepare the dessert.
2. Using a serrated knife, score the sugar cones about 1 1/2 to 2 inches from the tip. Snap off the tips and set them aside. Break the remaining cones into small pieces and transfer to a bowl.
3. Trace 12 circles on parchment paper using the bottom of a Mason jar. Flip the parchment over before using.
4. Place chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Reserve 2 tablespoons in a separate small bowl. Heat the chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth and melted. Stir in the reserved chocolate chips to complete melting.
5. Drop at least 1 rounded teaspoon of melted chocolate in the center of each circle on the parchment, spreading evenly to the edges.
6. Dip each reserved cone tip into chocolate and place upright in the center of a chocolate circle. Sprinkle chopped peanuts over the exposed chocolate. Allow to cool and harden for 30-60 minutes.
7. Pour the remaining melted chocolate over the crushed cone pieces, stirring to coat. Spread them in a single layer on parchment paper and let firm up.
8. Assemble each jar by layering ice cream, crushed cones, and peanut chocolate circles twice, filling about two-thirds full. Add a top layer of ice cream nearly to the rim, finishing with a chocolate peanut circle containing a cone.
9. Transfer each jar to the freezer immediately. Cover loosely and freeze for 1 hour before serving for best results.

Chef's Tip: If you need the chocolate to harden faster, refrigerate the chocolate circles and coated cone pieces briefly before assembly.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 477
• Fat: 20g (25% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 8g (42% DV)
• Cholesterol: 23mg (8% DV)
• Sodium: 234mg (10% DV)
• Carbohydrates: 67g (24% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 4g (13% DV)
• Sugars: 33g
• Protein: 9g (19% DV)
• Vitamin C: 0mg (0% DV)
• Calcium: 103mg (8% DV)
• Iron: 4mg (22% DV)
• Potassium: 361mg (8% DV)

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Individual needs may vary.

The Story Behind Drumstick Sundae Jars

The Drumstick Sundae Jars trace their roots to the classic American ice cream cone known as the Drumstick, which was first created in the 1920s by the Parker Brothers in Fort Worth, Texas. Originally, it featured a crisp sugar cone filled with vanilla ice cream, topped with a hard chocolate shell and a sprinkling of chopped nuts. The sundae jar adaptation modernizes this nostalgic treat, allowing the same flavors to be enjoyed in a layered, portable format. Chef John Mitzewichs innovation transforms the simple cone into an elegant jar dessert, combining convenience with a playful presentation.

Regional Influences

While the original Drumstick is quintessentially American, variations like the Drumstick Sundae Jars have found popularity across North America, especially in regions where ice cream parlors are cultural staples. In the Midwest, desserts often emphasize hearty portions and familiar flavors like chocolate and peanuts, which are central to this recipe. Coastal areas, particularly in California, have embraced the jar presentation for its aesthetic appeal, often incorporating local artisan ice creams or gourmet chocolate, reflecting regional tastes and ingredient availability.

Distinctive Features Compared to Similar Desserts

Unlike traditional sundaes, which are usually served in bowls or tall glasses, the Drumstick Sundae Jars offer a structured, layered presentation that preserves texture. The crushed sugar cones provide a crunchy contrast to the smooth ice cream, while the chocolate-peanut discs emulate the iconic Drumstick topping in every bite. Compared to parfaits or trifle desserts, these jars focus on replicating the nostalgic flavors of the Drumstick cone rather than introducing multiple fruit or custard layers.

Typical Serving Occasions

Drumstick Sundae Jars are commonly served at casual gatherings, summer parties, and dessert buffets, where both adults and children can enjoy them. They are particularly popular in home kitchens and boutique cafes due to their portability and visual appeal. The jars also make excellent gifts or party favors, offering a personal and customizable dessert experience that can be prepared in advance and frozen until serving.

Fun Facts and Trivia

• The original Drumstick ice cream cone was inspired by the popularity of chocolate-dipped ice cream cones in the 1920s, and the idea of combining a cone with a chocolate-peanut topping quickly became a nationwide favorite.
• The jar version allows layering of textures and flavors, giving an experience similar to eating a traditional Drumstick but with more control over portions and presentation.
• Interestingly, the term Drumstick is also used in some countries to describe chicken legs, which sometimes confuses international audiences when hearing about the dessert.
• These jars have become a trendy dessert for social media posts because their layered look photographs beautifully, highlighting the contrast between ice cream, chocolate, and crunchy cone pieces.
• The recipes flexibility allows for seasonal variations, such as swapping vanilla ice cream for chocolate, adding caramel drizzle, or incorporating local nuts for a regional twist.

FAQ about Drumstick Sundae Jars Recipe