Try a California take on the banana split. We predict it will become a favorite at your house—even if you’re not a surfer!

Surfer Split is a delightful sundae that pays homage to Southern California’s surfing heritage. Created by the California Milk Advisory Board to celebrate National Ice Cream Month, this dessert combines the flavors of blueberry preserves, whipped cream, banana, chocolate ice cream, coconut, and maraschino cherries. The presentation of the sundae represents the ocean, whitecaps, and surfboards, capturing the essence of the surf culture.

Surfer Split was created as a fun and delicious way to honor Southern California’s rich surfing heritage. Surfing is an integral part of the coastal culture in Southern California, and it has become synonymous with the laid-back and adventurous lifestyle of the region.

To celebrate National Ice Cream Month, the California Milk Advisory Board developed the Surfer Split sundae. The dessert not only captures the flavors of popular toppings but also incorporates visual elements that resemble the surf scene. The blueberry jam represents the vast ocean, the peaks of whipped cream resemble the whitecaps that form on the waves, and the halved banana serves as the surfboard floating on the ice cream waves.

This unique and creative dessert highlights the synergy between the vibrant surf culture and the enjoyment of delicious ice cream treats. It has become a favorite among locals and visitors alike, who can savor the flavors while envisioning the California coast and its iconic surf scene.

PREP/TOTAL TIME: 10 MIN.

MAKES: 1 SERVING

INGREDIENTS

• ½ cup blueberry preserves
• 1 tablespoon water
• ½ cup whipped cream
• 1 medium banana, halved lengthwise
• 1½ cups chocolate ice cream
• 2 tablespoons flaked coconut
• 3 maraschino cherries

INSTRUCTIONS

1. In a small bowl, mix the blueberry preserves and water until well blended, creating a smooth sauce.
2. Spoon whipped cream onto the bottom of a dessert dish, creating a base for the sundae.
3. Arrange the halved banana lengthwise on top of the whipped cream, resembling surfboards floating on the cream.
4. Add three scoops of chocolate ice cream on top of the whipped cream and bananas, forming the waves of the dessert.
5. Sprinkle flaked coconut over the ice cream, representing the frothy whitecaps on the waves.
6. Drizzle the blueberry mixture over the ice cream, creating a visual representation of the vast ocean.
7. Top the sundae with maraschino cherries, adding a burst of color reminiscent of beach umbrellas.
8. Serve the Surfer Split immediately and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures.

NOTE:

• This unique sundae captures the essence of Southern California’s surf culture while providing a delicious and visually appealing dessert experience. It’s a delightful treat to celebrate National Ice Cream Month or simply to enjoy a taste of the California coast.