Crispy Mexican Fried Ice Cream Recipe: Sweet Fiesta in a Bowl

Creamy desserts take an unexpected turn with this delightful mexican fried ice cream that surprises even seasoned sweet enthusiasts.

Cold scoops nestled inside a crispy golden shell create a magical contrast you can’t resist.

Each bite promises a thrilling dance of textures that melts instantly on your tongue.

Cinnamon and vanilla notes weave through the crunchy exterior, hinting at rich cultural flavors.

Traditional techniques meet modern culinary creativity in this playful treat that sparks instant curiosity.

Home cooks can easily master this seemingly complex dessert with just a few simple ingredients.

Prepare to wow guests with a dessert that feels like a festive celebration on a plate.

Mexican Fried Ice Cream with Crunchy Goodness

• Prepare ice cream balls in advance, making this a perfect make-ahead dessert for busy hosts who want minimal last-minute preparation.
• Enjoy the incredible contrast between the crispy, toasted corn flake coating and the smooth, cold ice cream center that creates an irresistible crunch in every bite.
• Kids and adults will love customizing their dessert with extra toppings like chocolate sauce, whipped cream, and cherries, making it an interactive and fun treat for all ages.

What Goes into Mexican Fried Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy foundation of the dessert, choose high-quality, rich vanilla flavor for best results.

• Corn Flakes, Butter: Crunchy exterior with golden toasty notes, use fresh cereal for maximum crispness.
• Ground Cinnamon: Warm spice that adds depth and Mexican-inspired flavor.

• Granulated Sugar: Creates sweet crystalline coating for extra texture.
• Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy topping that adds creamy contrast.
• Hot Fudge Sauce: Rich chocolate drizzle for extra indulgence.
• Maraschino Cherry: Bright red finishing touch with sweet-tart flavor.

Instructions to Make Mexican Fried Ice Cream at Home

Step 1: Create Frozen Ice Cream Spheres

Grab a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Scoop ice cream into round balls that are generous in size. Carefully place these spheres onto the prepared sheet. Transfer the baking sheet to the freezer and let the ice cream become rock solid for several hours.

Step 2: Toast Crunchy Corn Flake Coating

Heat a skillet over medium flame. Drop butter into the pan and allow it to melt completely. Pour crushed corn flakes into the melted butter. Sprinkle ground cinnamon over the mixture. Stir everything together until corn flakes are evenly coated and turning golden brown. Continue cooking until the flakes smell wonderfully toasted. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool down completely.

Step 3: Roll and Dress Ice Cream Balls

Combine granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a separate bowl. Take the frozen ice cream spheres out of the freezer. Gently roll each ball first in the cinnamon-sugar blend. Next, carefully coat the sugared ball with the toasted corn flake mixture. Press softly to ensure the coating sticks well.

Step 4: Decorate and Serve

Transfer the coated ice cream balls onto serving plates. Add a generous dollop of whipped cream on top. Drizzle chocolate fudge sauce in elegant swirls. Crown each dessert with a bright red maraschino cherry. Serve immediately for maximum deliciousness.

Tips for Freezing and Frying the Ice Cream Properly

• Freeze Firmly: Ensure ice cream balls are rock-solid before coating to prevent melting during the toasting process.
• Toast Carefully: Watch corn flakes closely while toasting to prevent burning, stirring constantly for even golden-brown color.
• Work Quickly: Keep coated ice cream balls in freezer between steps to maintain structural integrity and prevent premature melting.
• Customize Toppings: Experiment with different sauces like caramel, chocolate, or strawberry for unique flavor variations.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute corn flakes with gluten-free rice cereal or crushed gluten-free graham crackers for dietary needs.

How to Store Mexican Fried Ice Cream Without Melting

• Place leftover fried ice cream in an airtight container, covering each ball individually with plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn.
• Store in the freezer for up to 3 days, keeping the coating crisp and preventing ice crystals from forming.
• Remove from freezer 2-3 minutes before serving to slightly soften the corn flake coating, ensuring a crunchy texture.
• Never microwave fried ice cream, as it will melt the ice cream and destroy the crispy exterior.

Great Toppings for Fried Ice Cream Dishes

• Serve a chilled Mexican horchata alongside the fried ice cream, as its creamy rice and cinnamon notes will beautifully echo the dessert's warm spices.
• Accompany the crispy dessert with a small shot of smooth, rich espresso or traditional Mexican café de olla, which will cut through the sweetness and provide a sophisticated edge.
• Add a drizzle of dulce de leche or caramel sauce to intensify the Mexican-inspired flavor profile, creating a more complex and indulgent dessert experience.
• Garnish with fresh mango or strawberry slices to introduce a bright, tangy element that balances the creamy, crunchy fried ice cream.

Unique Flavors for Your Fried Ice Cream

• Gluten-Free Crunch: Replace corn flakes with gluten-free rice cereal or crushed gluten-free graham crackers for a celiac-friendly version.
• Vegan Delight: Swap dairy ice cream with coconut milk or almond milk-based frozen dessert. Use plant-based butter for coating and coconut whipped cream as topping.
• Nutty Variation: Add chopped almonds or pecans to the corn flake coating for extra texture and richness. Sprinkle toasted nuts on top for additional crunch.
• Low-Sugar Option: Use sugar-free ice cream and replace granulated sugar with stevia or monk fruit sweetener. Top with sugar-free chocolate sauce for a guilt-free treat.

Mexican Fried Ice Cream Recipe

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4.7 from 24 reviews

• Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Indulgent Mexican Fried Ice Cream delivers crispy golden perfection with cool, creamy vanilla nestled in a crunchy cinnamon-cornflake shell. Sweet meets savory in this classic dessert that brings delightful contrasts of temperature and texture right to your plate.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 4 large scoops vanilla ice cream
• 2 cups corn flakes, crushed

Spice and Sweetening Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons (45 ml) granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons (30 ml) unsalted butter, melted

Topping Ingredients:

• Whipped cream
• Hot fudge sauce
• Maraschino cherries

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Instructions

1. Craft four generously sized spheres of cold dessert using an ice cream scoop, carefully positioning them on a parchment-lined tray. Submerge the tray in the freezer, allowing the globes to solidify for a minimum of three hours until they become completely rigid.
2. Activate a skillet over moderate heat, melting butter until it becomes golden and aromatic. Incorporate crushed corn flakes and cinnamon, thoroughly coating the ingredients while stirring continuously. Gently toast the mixture for approximately three minutes, developing a rich, nutty fragrance. Transfer the mixture to a separate container, permitting it to cool to ambient temperature.
3. Combine granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a shallow vessel, creating a delicate spiced coating. Extract the frozen orbs from their chilly sanctuary. Delicately roll each sphere first through the cinnamon-sugar blend, then meticulously encase them in the toasted corn flake crumble, applying gentle pressure to ensure complete adherence.
4. Position the elaborately decorated ice cream spheres onto elegant serving plates. Crown each creation with billowy whipped cream, cascade a luxurious stream of hot fudge sauce, and garnish with a vibrant maraschino cherry. Serve the dessert instantaneously to preserve its exquisite textural contrast.

Notes

• Ensure ice cream is rock-solid before coating to prevent melting during the frying process.
• Toast corn flakes carefully to achieve a golden-brown color without burning, which adds a nutty crunch to the dessert.
• Use freshly ground cinnamon for a more intense, aromatic flavor that elevates the entire dish.
• Create a gluten-free version by substituting corn flakes with crushed gluten-free cereal or toasted almond slices for added texture.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 3 hours
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 25 g
• Sodium: 150 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 40 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Cholesterol: 50 mg