Introduction

This Hot Fudge Golden Grahams Parfait is a delightful mix of crunchy cereal brittle, creamy vanilla ice cream, and a spicy hot fudge sauce that adds a surprising kick. Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a special treat at home, it combines textures and flavors in every spoonful.

Hot Fudge Golden Grahams Parfait Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

Cooking spray
1 cup sugar
3 Tbsp. pure honey
3/4 tsp. Kosher salt
1/4 tsp. baking soda
2 1/2 cups Golden Grahams Cereal
1/2 cup toasted sliced almonds
2 pints vanilla ice cream
Whipped cream and cherries, for garnish
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1/3 cup packed light brown sugar
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 Tbsp. corn syrup
4 Tbsp. unsalted butter
1 1/2 tsp. pure vanilla extract
1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon
Pinch of cayenne

Instructions

Step 1: Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, bring sugar, honey, and 3 tablespoons water to a boil. Cook without stirring until the mixture turns a deep-amber color, about 6 to 7 minutes. Remove from heat immediately, stir in salt and baking soda, then quickly mix in the cereal and almonds.
Step 2: Spread the mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet using a rubber spatula. Let it cool and harden for 40 to 45 minutes, then break into clusters.
Step 3: To make the spicy hot fudge sauce, whisk together cocoa powder and brown sugar in a medium saucepan. Whisk in heavy cream and corn syrup. Cook over medium heat until warm, about 4 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and cayenne until the sauce is smooth. Let it cool, whisking occasionally, until just warm, about 15 to 20 minutes.
Step 4: In parfait glasses, layer the spicy hot fudge sauce, brittle clusters, and scoops of vanilla ice cream. Garnish with whipped cream and cherries before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra crunch, toast the almonds lightly before adding them to the brittle mixture.
If you prefer less heat, reduce or omit the cayenne in the hot fudge sauce.
Try swapping vanilla ice cream for chocolate or salted caramel for a twist on the classic.
Use store-bought brittle if short on time, but freshly made crisp clusters really enhance texture.

Storage

Store any leftover brittle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain crunch. The spicy hot fudge sauce can be refrigerated in a sealed jar for up to 5 days; gently warm before serving again. Assemble parfaits just before serving to keep the brittle crispy and the ice cream from melting.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the brittle ahead of time?

Yes, the brittle clusters can be made up to a week in advance and stored in an airtight container at room temperature. This allows you to prepare most of the dessert ahead and assemble quickly before serving.

What can I use instead of corn syrup?

If you don’t have corn syrup, you can use honey or light molasses as a substitute in the hot fudge sauce. These alternatives may slightly change the texture or sweetness but will still produce a delicious sauce.