Fried ice cream is a delightful dessert that combines the best of both worlds: cold, creamy ice cream with a warm, crispy coating. This treat is perfect for those who want a unique and indulgent dessert experience. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply treating yourself, fried ice cream is sure to impress. The process may seem intricate, but with a few tips and tricks, you can make this sweet treat right at home.
Ingredients for Ultimate Fried Ice Cream
- Ice Cream:
- 4 cups of your favorite ice cream flavor (vanilla, chocolate, or a combination)
- Coating:
- 1 cup crushed cornflakes or graham crackers
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- For Frying:
- 4 cups vegetable oil (for deep frying)
- Optional Toppings:
- Chocolate or caramel sauce
- Whipped cream
- Maraschino cherries
How to Make Ultimate Fried Ice Cream
1. Prepare the Ice Cream
Begin by scooping the ice cream into individual balls using an ice cream scoop or a spoon. Place the scoops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze the ice cream balls for at least 2 hours, or until they are very firm. This step is crucial as it ensures that the ice cream will stay intact during frying.
2. Prepare the Coating
While the ice cream is freezing, prepare the coating. In a shallow dish, combine the crushed cornflakes or graham crackers with 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Mix well to ensure the coating is evenly flavored.
In another shallow dish, place the flour. In a third dish, whisk the eggs until they are well beaten. This three-step breading process will help achieve a crispy, golden crust.
3. Bread the Ice Cream Balls
Once the ice cream balls are thoroughly frozen, start the breading process. First, roll each ice cream ball in the flour, coating it completely. Next, dip the floured ice cream ball into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is fully covered. Finally, roll the ice cream ball in the crushed cornflakes or graham crackers mixture, pressing gently to adhere the coating.
Repeat this process for all the ice cream balls. For an extra crispy coating, repeat the egg and coating steps to double coat the ice cream.
4. Heat the Oil
In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer, heat the vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). It’s essential to use a thermometer to ensure the oil reaches the correct temperature, as oil that’s too hot or too cold can affect the frying process.
5. Fry the Ice Cream
Carefully lower the coated ice cream balls into the hot oil using a slotted spoon or a mesh strainer. Fry the ice cream balls in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot. Fry each ball for about 10-15 seconds, or until the coating turns golden brown and crispy. Be careful not to over-fry, as the ice cream can start to melt if left in the oil for too long.
Remove the fried ice cream balls from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Let them cool slightly before serving.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Serve the fried ice cream immediately while still warm and crispy. Drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce, add a dollop of whipped cream, and top with a maraschino cherry for an extra touch of indulgence. Enjoy the contrast of the warm, crispy coating with the cold, creamy ice cream inside.
About the Main Ingredients
Ice Cream
Ice cream is the star of this dessert. It provides the cold, creamy core that contrasts beautifully with the crispy coating. Choose a flavor that you enjoy or mix and match to create your perfect fried ice cream.
Cornflakes or Graham Crackers
The crushed cornflakes or graham crackers create a crunchy, sweet coating that complements the ice cream. Cornflakes give a more classic, neutral flavor, while graham crackers add a hint of cinnamon and molasses.
Flour and Eggs
Flour and eggs act as the binding agents for the coating. The flour provides a base layer for the eggs to adhere to, while the eggs help the final coating stick to the ice cream.
Vegetable Oil
Vegetable oil is used for frying the ice cream. It has a high smoke point, making it ideal for deep frying. Make sure the oil is preheated to the correct temperature for the best results.
Fried ice cream is a unique and delightful dessert that is sure to impress your family and friends. With this recipe, you can create a perfectly crispy, delicious treat that combines the best of both worlds. Enjoy your homemade fried ice cream!
