Marilyn Monroe’s Favorite Dessert Was a Classic Hot Fudge Sundae

At the height of Marilyn Monroe’s stardom, fans eagerly sought every detail about her glamorous life—including what she ate. While the iconic blonde bombshell maintained a disciplined diet focused on protein-heavy meals during the day, she allowed herself one indulgence: a classic hot fudge sundae.

In a 1952 interview with Pageant magazine, Monroe revealed, “I have developed the habit of stopping off at Wil Wright’s ice cream parlor for a hot fudge sundae on my way home from my evening drama classes. I’m sure that I couldn’t allow myself this indulgence were it not that my normal diet is composed almost totally of protein foods.” This little treat was her sweet reward after a day of strict eating.

Wil Wright’s was a popular chain of ice cream parlors in Los Angeles, known for its cheerful, old-fashioned ambiance. With locations in Beverly Hills, Westwood Village, and the Sunset Strip, it attracted a Hollywood clientele including stars like Clark Gable and Judy Garland. The hot fudge sundae Monroe adored was considered a “fancy sundae,” served with whipped cream, almonds, and a baby macaroon, priced at just 45 cents at the time.

The Legacy of the Hot Fudge Sundae

Monroe’s favorite dessert has deep roots in Los Angeles. The creation of the hot fudge sundae is commonly credited to Clarence Clifton Brown—better known as C.C. Brown—who opened an ice cream and candy shop downtown in 1906. Brown’s signature heated fudge sauce poured over vanilla ice cream became an instant hit. In 1929, Brown’s son Cliff moved the shop to Hollywood Boulevard, where it became a celebrity hotspot frequented by not only Monroe but also stars like Bob Hope and Marlon Brando.

While the shop offered a range of sandwiches and salads, the hot fudge sundae was what truly made C.C. Brown’s famous. Its popularity soon spread, and hot fudge sundaes became a staple on ice cream menus nationwide.

A Timeless Treat

Today, thanks to jarred fudge sauces and a variety of vanilla ice cream brands, making a hot fudge sundae at home is easier than ever. Classic toppings like whipped cream and chopped nuts remain favorites, but modern variations include sprinkles, fresh fruit, and maraschino cherries—each adding a personalized touch.

For Marilyn Monroe, the hot fudge sundae was more than just dessert—it was a sweet moment of indulgence that balanced her strict, protein-focused diet. Whether you’re savoring one at a retro ice cream parlor or making your own, Monroe’s favorite treat lives on as a timeless classic.

For more on Marilyn Monroe’s favorite dessert and the history of the hot fudge sundae, visit The Takeout.