Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dessert offers a harmonious blend of sensations—crunchy on the outside and velvety on the inside. The fusion of sweet and spicy flavors, often enhanced by toppings like honey, chocolate syrup, or whipped cream, provides a versatile and customizable experience. Whether for a festive occasion or a special after-dinner delight, Mexican Fried Ice Cream is sure to impress.
Ingredients
- Vanilla ice cream
- Crushed cornflakes
- Ground cinnamon
- Sugar
- Eggs
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Optional toppings: honey, chocolate syrup, whipped cream, maraschino cherries
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Ice Cream Balls: Scoop the vanilla ice cream into firm balls and place them on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, at least 2 hours.
- Coat the Ice Cream: In a bowl, combine crushed cornflakes, sugar, and ground cinnamon. Roll each frozen ice cream ball in the mixture, pressing gently to adhere. For a thicker crust, dip the coated balls in beaten eggs, then roll again in the cornflake mixture.
- Freeze Again: Return the coated ice cream balls to the freezer for at least 2 hours, ensuring they are firm before frying.
- Fry Quickly: Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 375°F (190°C). Using a slotted spoon, carefully lower each ice cream ball into the hot oil for 10-15 seconds, just until the coating turns golden brown.
- Serve Immediately: Remove from oil and drain briefly on paper towels. Serve immediately with your choice of toppings.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Typically serves 4.
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes (active).
- Freezing Time: At least 4 hours.
- Cooking Time: Less than 1 minute per ice cream ball.
Variations
- Ice Cream Flavors: Experiment with different ice cream flavors like chocolate, strawberry, or coffee to add variety.
- Coatings: Substitute cornflakes with crushed cookies, graham crackers, or even finely chopped nuts for a different texture and taste.
- Spices: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the coating mixture for a subtle heat that complements the sweetness.
Storage/Reheating
Mexican Fried Ice Cream is best enjoyed immediately after frying to maintain the contrast between the hot, crispy exterior and the cold interior. If you have leftovers, store the unfried, coated ice cream balls in an airtight container in the freezer for up to a week. Fry them just before serving; reheating fried ice cream is not recommended, as it compromises the texture.
FAQs
Is Mexican Fried Ice Cream really fried?
Yes, the coated ice cream balls are briefly deep-fried to achieve a crispy exterior while keeping the inside frozen.
How do you prevent the ice cream from melting during frying?
Freezing the coated ice cream balls thoroughly before frying and frying at a high temperature for a very short time helps prevent melting.
Can I bake the coated ice cream instead of frying?
While traditional preparation involves frying, some opt to bake the coated ice cream balls at a high temperature until the coating is crisp. However, this method may not yield the same texture.
What toppings go well with Mexican Fried Ice Cream?
Popular toppings include honey, chocolate syrup, whipped cream, caramel sauce, and maraschino cherries. Fresh fruits like strawberries or bananas also pair well.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
You can prepare and coat the ice cream balls in advance, storing them in the freezer until ready to fry and serve.
Is it possible to make a non-dairy version?
Yes, use non-dairy ice cream and ensure that all other ingredients, including the coating and toppings, are dairy-free.
What oil is best for frying the ice cream?
Neutral oils with high smoke points, such as vegetable or canola oil, are ideal for frying.
How do I achieve a thicker crust?
Double-coating the ice cream balls by dipping them in beaten egg and rolling them again in the coating mixture before freezing can create a thicker crust.
Can I use flavored cornflakes for the coating?
Yes, using flavored cornflakes or adding spices like nutmeg to the coating mixture can enhance the flavor.
What’s the origin of Mexican Fried Ice Cream?
While associated with Mexican cuisine, its exact origins are debated. Some believe it was popularized in American Mexican-themed restaurants in the 1980s.
Conclusion
Mexican Fried Ice Cream is a captivating dessert that delights with its contrasting textures and flavors. Its versatility allows for creative variations, making it a perfect choice for special occasions or as a memorable end to a meal. By following this recipe, you can bring this restaurant favorite into your own kitchen and enjoy a truly unique treat.
Mexican Fried Ice Cream
- Total Time: 4 hours 21 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight your taste buds with Mexican Fried Ice Cream, a unique dessert that combines the cold, creamy goodness of ice cream with a crispy, golden coating. Perfect for festive occasions or a special treat, this indulgent dish is easy to customize with your favorite toppings.
Ingredients
- Vanilla ice cream
- Crushed cornflakes
- Ground cinnamon
- Sugar
- Eggs
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Optional toppings: honey, chocolate syrup, whipped cream, maraschino cherries
Instructions
- Scoop vanilla ice cream into balls and freeze until solid (at least 2 hours).
- Mix crushed cornflakes, sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl.
- Coat each ice cream ball in the mixture, press gently to adhere, dip in beaten eggs, and coat again for a thicker crust.
- Freeze coated balls for an additional 2 hours.
- Heat oil to 375°F (190°C) and fry each ball for 10–15 seconds until golden brown.
- Drain briefly, then serve immediately with desired toppings.
Notes
- For variety, experiment with different ice cream flavors or substitute cornflakes with crushed cookies.
- Prepare the ice cream balls in advance and store in the freezer until ready to fry.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 minute
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Deep-frying
- Cuisine: Mexican