When the summer sun blazes overhead, there’s nothing quite like cool, creamy treats to refresh and delight your taste buds. One sunny afternoon, while brainstorming something new to satisfy my ice cream cravings, I had a lightbulb moment: why not combine the best of a taco and a dessert? Enter the Choco Taco, with its crisp stroopwafel shell, luscious vanilla ice cream, and a decadent chocolate dip.
This recipe is a joyous blend of textures and flavors that’s so easy to whip up, yet feels like a special indulgence. It’s perfect for those evenings when you want to impress friends or simply treat yourself after a long day. The beauty of this creation lies in its versatility; you can mix in your favorite toppings or experiment with other ice cream flavors. Trust me, every bite will leave you craving more. Get ready to take your dessert game to the next level with these delightful Choco Tacos!
Why love Choco Taco recipes?
Unmatched Delight: Combining the crispy stroopwafel shell with creamy vanilla ice cream creates a truly delightful treat.
Quick & Simple: In just over an hour, you can have these fun ice cream tacos ready to impress family and friends.
Customizable Fun: Get creative! Use different ice cream flavors or toppings to make each taco unique.
Nostalgic Twist: This playful twist on a classic dessert brings a touch of nostalgia to your summer gatherings.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties, these Choco Tacos will wow your guests and leave them asking for the recipe!
Dive into this delicious treat and share the joy with everyone. If you’re looking for more sweet and easy recipes, check out our ice cream desserts collection.
Choco Taco Ingredients
For the Shell
• Daelmans Stroopwafels – These crispy waffles form the perfect base for your Choco Tacos, adding delightful flavor and texture.
For the Filling
• Vanilla Ice Cream – Opt for your favorite brand or flavor; make sure it’s soft enough to scoop and fill the shells easily.
For the Chocolate Dip
• Milk Chocolate Chips – Melting these creates a rich coating that adds a decadent touch to your Choco Taco.
For the Toppings
• Rainbow Sprinkles – These fun sprinkles not only add a pop of color but also a festive crunch to each bite.
How to Make Choco Taco
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Heat Stroopwafels: Start by microwaving 4 stroopwafels at a time for about 30 seconds. This softens them, making them easier to shape into taco shells without breaking.
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Shape the Shells: Carefully bend each warmed stroopwafel into a shell shape and pinch the sides together gently. Let them cool for a few minutes until they hold their form well.
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Fill with Ice Cream: Once the shells are set, fill each with creamy vanilla ice cream and lay them on a baking sheet. Don’t be shy—load them up with that delicious ice cream!
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Chill the Tacos: Move the baking sheet with your filled tacos to the freezer to chill for about 30 minutes. This step ensures they’re firm and ready for coating.
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Melt Chocolate Chips: In the meantime, melt the milk chocolate chips in the microwave. Heat for 30 seconds at a time, stirring in between until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
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Dip the Tacos: Carefully dip the tip of each taco into the melted chocolate. Use a spoon to smooth the chocolate coating if needed, ensuring it’s nicely covered.
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Freeze Again: Place the chocolate-dipped tacos back on the pan and return them to the freezer for an additional 30 minutes. This helps the chocolate set beautifully.
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Serve & Enjoy: Now, your delightful Choco Tacos are ready! Serve them up and enjoy this delicious, sweet treat with family and friends.
Optional: Add a drizzle of chocolate sauce before serving for an extra indulgent touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Choco Taco
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Proper Heating: Microwave stroopwafels in small batches for 30 seconds to soften without overheating. Too warm can cause them to break.
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Cooling Time: Allow sufficient time for the shells to cool completely to hold their shape. Rushed cooling can lead to floppy tacos that aren’t easy to fill.
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Ice Cream Consistency: Use slightly softened vanilla ice cream for easier filling. Hard ice cream can be difficult to scoop, ruining the shape of your Choco Taco.
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Chocolate Dipping: When dipping in melted chocolate, ensure it’s warm but not hot to avoid melting the ice cream. A smooth layer makes for a beautiful presentation.
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Chill Well: Don’t skip the chilling time! Freezing after filling and dipping helps the Choco Tacos maintain their structure and ensures a delightful bite.
Choco Taco Variations
Get ready to bring your own twist to these delightful treats!
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Dairy-Free: Swap vanilla ice cream for coconut or almond-based ice cream for a delicious vegan-friendly option.
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Chocolate Lovers: Use dark chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate for a richer, more decadent coating that amplifies the flavor profile.
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Nutty Crunch: Add chopped nuts to the filling or sprinkle on top of the chocolate dip for extra texture and a delightful crunch.
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Fruit-Filled: Substitute a layer of ice cream with fresh berries or banana slices to infuse a fruity burst into each bite.
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Spiced Delight: Mix cinnamon into the ice cream or top with a sprinkle of chili powder for a surprising kick that adds warmth.
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Coffee Kick: Incorporate espresso powder into the ice cream for an energizing mocha flavor that coffee lovers will adore.
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Gourmet Drizzle: After dipping in chocolate, drizzle caramel or a fruit sauce over the top for a sweet finishing touch that elevates the treat.
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Flavored Shells: Experiment with flavored stroopwafels, like caramel or maple, for an exciting twist that can change the taste narrative entirely.
Feel free to let your imagination run wild! Each variation represents a creative opportunity to personalize your Choco Tacos. Enjoy the process!
How to Store and Freeze Choco Taco
Fridge: Store any leftover Choco Tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh, but they may lose some crunch.
Freezer: For longer storage, place Choco Tacos in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. They can last up to 2 months if properly sealed.
Reheating: If you prefer to enjoy them warm, let them thaw at room temperature for 10-15 minutes, then briefly warm in the microwave for about 10 seconds—just enough to soften.
Serving Freshness: For the best experience, savor them soon after preparation, as they are truly a treat when freshly made!
What to Serve with Choco Taco?
Picture a sun-kissed afternoon where laughter fills the air and your dessert is the highlight of the day.
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Fresh Berry Medley: A light mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries offers a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the Choco Taco. The natural tartness balances the rich chocolate and creamy ice cream perfectly.
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Crispy Waffle Chips: Serve extra waffle chips on the side for an added crunch. Their airy texture complements the dense Choco Taco, allowing for a delightful contrast with each bite.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Elevate the decadent experience with a rich chocolate drizzle over fresh fruit or directly over the tacos. This extra layer of indulgence brings out the chocolate flavors beautifully.
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Nutty Ice Cream Toppings: Chopped nuts such as almonds or hazelnuts provide a great crunch and earthy flavor that enhances the dessert. Their toastiness pairs excellently with the vanilla ice cream and syrupy goodness of the Choco Taco.
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Cold Brew Coffee: A refreshing cold brew coffee or iced latte serves as a refreshing drink that complements the dessert well. The slight bitterness of the coffee cuts through the sweetness, providing a perfect balance.
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Vanilla Whipped Cream: Homemade whipped cream lightens the indulgence a bit and adds a lush, creamy dollop that works wonders with the crisp and chocolatey elements of the taco. A dollop of cream can make each bite feel luxurious.
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Coconut Sorbet: For a dairy-free option, serve a scoop of coconut sorbet to brighten the palate. Its light, tropical flavor adds an enchanting twist beside the rich Choco Taco.
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Mini Fruit Tartlets: These can be delightful little bites alongside your Choco Tacos, adding an element of fun and variety to your dessert spread. They bring a burst of fruitiness that everyone will love!
Get creative with your pairings and make your dessert table a celebration of flavors to remember!
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Choco Tacos are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the stroopwafel shells and fill them with vanilla ice cream up to 24 hours in advance. Simply shape the shells and fill them, then place the baking sheet in the freezer for a quick chill. The uncoated tacos will maintain their quality if wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, melt the chocolate chips (or use a microwave) and dip the tacos shortly before guests arrive to ensure the chocolate sets perfectly. With these tips, you’ll have a stress-free, show-stopping dessert made easy!
Choco Taco Recipe FAQs
What type of stroopwafels should I use?
Absolutely! I recommend using Daelmans Stroopwafels for the best results. These have the right crispness and caramel layering that make the shell delicious and sturdy. Look for ones that are fresh with no dark spots, indicating they’re still good to use!
How should I store leftover Choco Tacos?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Ensure they’re stacked without touching if possible, to maintain their shape and crunch. Just keep in mind that they can lose some crispness over time.
Can I freeze Choco Tacos?
Yes, you can! To freeze, place them in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They will stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge, take them out and let them thaw in the fridge or at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes.
What do I do if my stroopwafels break while shaping them?
Very often, this happens when they’re heated too long. If that occurs, simply microwave a few more for 30 seconds and try again. If you find them too brittle, consider using a new package or carefully handling the warm ones to ensure a softer bend. Sometimes, a gentle touch is all it takes!
Can I use different ice cream flavors or toppings?
The more the merrier! Feel free to be adventurous with flavors—think chocolate, caramel, or even fruity options. You can also sprinkle in nuts, chocolate chips, or even a drizzle of caramel on top for extra sweetness. Each combination will create a delightful twist on the classic Choco Taco.
Are there any dietary considerations for my Choco Tacos?
Absolutely! If you have dietary restrictions, look for dairy-free or vegan ice cream alternatives. For the sprinkles, make sure they are allergy-friendly if needed. Always check ingredient lists to avoid allergens, especially if serving to guests with food sensitivities. Enjoy creating delicious treats that everyone can savor!
Delicious Choco Taco: A Fun Twist on Ice Cream Treats
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by microwaving 4 stroopwafels at a time for about 30 seconds to soften them, making them easier to shape into taco shells without breaking.
- Carefully bend each warmed stroopwafel into a shell shape and pinch the sides together gently. Let them cool for a few minutes until they hold their form well.
- Once the shells are set, fill each with creamy vanilla ice cream and lay them on a baking sheet. Don't be shy—load them up with that delicious ice cream!
- Move the baking sheet with your filled tacos to the freezer to chill for about 30 minutes. This step ensures they’re firm and ready for coating.
- In the meantime, melt the milk chocolate chips in the microwave. Heat for 30 seconds at a time, stirring in between until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
- Carefully dip the tip of each taco into the melted chocolate. Use a spoon to smooth the chocolate coating if needed, ensuring it’s nicely covered.
- Place the chocolate-dipped tacos back on the pan and return them to the freezer for an additional 30 minutes. This helps the chocolate set beautifully.
- Now, your delightful Choco Tacos are ready! Serve them up and enjoy this delicious, sweet treat with family and friends.