Introduction
Fried Ice Cream is one of those desserts that never fails to impress. The contrast between a hot, crunchy exterior and a cold, creamy center makes it feel dramatic and indulgent, yet it is surprisingly achievable at home. Often associated with Mexican and Asian restaurants, this dessert has become a favorite for special occasions and dinner parties. What I enjoy most about Fried Ice Cream is how flexible it can be. I tested this recipe using a no-deep-fry method, and the results were excellent, with less mess and stress. The crunchy coating delivers the familiar fried texture while keeping the ice cream perfectly frozen inside. Whether you serve it with chocolate sauce, honey, or whipped cream, this dessert always feels festive and memorable.
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Fried Ice Cream: A Crispy, Creamy Dessert Classic
- Total Time: 3 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Fried Ice Cream is a fun and indulgent dessert featuring a frozen scoop of ice cream coated in a crunchy cereal crust, quickly fried or baked until golden on the outside while remaining cold and creamy inside.
Ingredients
- 4 scoops vanilla ice cream
- 2 cups cornflakes, crushed
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- Oil for frying
- Honey or chocolate syrup for topping
- Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions
- Scoop the ice cream into firm balls and place them on a baking sheet. Freeze for at least 2 hours or until very solid.
- In a bowl, mix crushed cornflakes with cinnamon.
- In another bowl, whisk eggs with milk.
- Roll each frozen ice cream ball in the cornflake mixture, then dip into the egg mixture, and roll again in cornflakes to fully coat.
- Return coated ice cream balls to the freezer for 1 hour.
- Heat oil in a deep pan to 375°F (190°C).
- Fry each ice cream ball for 10–15 seconds until golden brown.
- Remove immediately, drain briefly, and serve topped with honey, chocolate syrup, or whipped cream.
Notes
- Work quickly to prevent melting.
- You can bake at 450°F (230°C) for 3–4 minutes instead of frying.
- Try different ice cream flavors for variety.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe combines texture, temperature, and flavor in a truly satisfying way. It looks impressive but can be prepared in advance, making it ideal for entertaining. The ingredients are simple, and the coating can be customized to suit your taste. It is a fun dessert that appeals to both children and adults.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Vanilla ice cream is the classic choice for Fried Ice Cream, offering a neutral base that pairs well with sweet toppings and spices.
Cornflakes create the signature crispy coating. When crushed, they form a crunchy shell that mimics deep frying.
Butter helps toast the cornflakes and enhances their flavor with richness.
Sugar adds sweetness to the coating and helps it caramelize slightly.
Ground cinnamon provides warmth and a familiar dessert spice that complements the ice cream.
Honey adds natural sweetness and a glossy finish when drizzled on top.
Chocolate sauce offers a rich contrast to the cold ice cream and crunchy coating.
Whipped cream adds lightness and visual appeal when used as a garnish.
Directions
Begin by shaping firm scoops of ice cream and placing them on a lined baking tray. Freeze until completely solid. While the ice cream freezes, crush the cornflakes into small crumbs. Melt butter in a skillet and add the crushed cornflakes, sugar, and cinnamon. Stir continuously until the mixture is golden and fragrant, then allow it to cool completely.
Once cooled, roll the frozen ice cream scoops in the cornflake mixture, pressing gently to ensure full coverage. Return the coated ice cream to the freezer until ready to serve. When serving, drizzle with honey or chocolate sauce and finish with whipped cream if desired. The result is a crisp exterior with a perfectly frozen center.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and timing
This recipe makes approximately four servings. Preparation takes about 20 minutes, with at least two hours of freezing time before serving.
Storage/reheating
Store coated ice cream balls in the freezer in an airtight container for up to one week. This dessert should not be reheated and should be served directly from the freezer.
Variations and Customizations
Fried Ice Cream is easy to customize with different flavors and coatings. Chocolate or dulce de leche ice cream works beautifully for a richer dessert. Crushed cookies or cereal can replace cornflakes for a different texture. I also tested this recipe with coconut flakes mixed into the coating, and it added a pleasant tropical note.
For toppings, caramel sauce, fruit compote, or chopped nuts all work well. You can adjust the spice level by adding nutmeg or pumpkin spice to the coating. Each variation keeps the signature contrast while allowing you to tailor the dessert to your preferences.
FAQs
Is Fried Ice Cream actually fried?
Traditional versions are briefly fried, but this version uses a toasted coating.
Can I prepare this dessert in advance?
Yes, it can be made several days ahead and stored in the freezer.
What ice cream flavor works best?
Vanilla is classic, but many flavors work well.
Can I use low-fat ice cream?
Yes, though it may melt faster.
Why must the ice cream be very firm?
Firm ice cream prevents melting during coating.
Can I make this without cornflakes?
Yes, crushed cookies or cereal can be used.
Is this dessert gluten-free?
Use gluten-free cereal to make it suitable.
Can children help make this recipe?
Yes, as no deep frying is required.
How do I keep the coating crunchy?
Ensure the cornflakes are fully cooled before coating.
What is the best way to serve it?
Serve immediately after removing from the freezer.
Conclusion
Fried Ice Cream is a dessert that delivers excitement, contrast, and comfort in every bite. With its crispy coating and creamy center, it is a reliable showstopper that can be prepared ahead and customized endlessly. This recipe makes it easy to recreate a restaurant-style favorite right in your own kitchen.
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