Dessert for our annual company picnic is always a challenge. Everyday we are surrounded by delicious cakes and cookies. It's easy to get tired of the same sweets.  The one thing that always excites us is ice cream.  We've had sundae bars before but they can get messy. I think I found sprinkles in the yard for months after the last picnic. I wanted something refreshing then thought, "Why not make ice cream cake? " We have all the yummy components, all we needed was the ice cream! The only problem was what flavor? So why decide? Ice cream cupcakes were the only solution. Using all our favorite toppings and fillings, our newest obsession was born. Plenty of flavor options for all, easily contained in a cupcake liner. Don't be surprised if you find them as a "pop-up" product at Sweet Maria's on summer weekends.  Summertime is sweet!

Here's how to:

-Line jumbo cupcake pans with paper liners( sometimes regular size cupcakes are just not enough!) Make Graham Cracker and Chocolate Cookie Crumb: Melt 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, then cool. Add to 1 cup crushed graham crackers or chocolate cookies and 1/4 cup sugar. Mix well.   Get some caramel, ganache, hot fudge sauce, crushed heath bars, fruit, amaretti crumb, sprinkles, nuts, crushed candy bars, etc.. Let ice cream soften for a few minutes before assembly.  Layer crumbs, ice cream,caramel, fudge sauce,  press gently, then layer more!            Top with whipped cream and garnish appropriately. Freeze until firm.                 Wrap each individually in cello bags and store in freezer until serving. Let ice cream cupcakes soften.at room temp 5 minutes before serving.   Our Favorite Flavor Ideas: - Salted Caramel -Cookies and Cream - Chocolate Heath Bar -Chocolate Peanut Butter -Toasted Almond-"Smores- Birthday Cake- Chocolate Heath Bar-Mocha Almond Fudge-Black Forest-Caramel Banana Brownie