The meaning of "à la mode" on the dessert and ice cream menu
In menus, "à la mode" indicates that a dessert is served with ice cream, although its meaning is not always fully understood.
In some circles, the expression is associated with fashion trends. For foodies, however, its meaning is simple: it describes a dish served with ice cream. It applies to various foods, mostly sweets. On the menu, a slice of apple pie with ice cream appears as "apple pie à la mode."
There are no strict rules about which dishes can be served with ice cream, but the term is almost exclusively used for desserts, especially cakes. Other common desserts include brownies and cookies. In general, ice cream pairs well with any warm dessert because it melts slowly over it, enhancing the overall texture and flavor.
Vanilla ice cream is often the preferred choice because it pairs well with most desserts. Warm cobblers, crumbles, bread puddings, or graham cracker puddings also benefit from a scoop of chilled ice cream. Other flavors, such as chocolate, go well with peanut butter desserts or strawberry or raspberry baked goods.