Name: Fried Ice Cream Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: PT-490532H17M57S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12-ounce box Corn Flakes cereal; 1/2 cup Salted butter; 1 cup Brown sugar; 1 to 2 Tablespoons Cinnamon; 1/2 gallon Vanilla ice cream; Honey; Caramel sauce; Whipped cream; Maraschino cherries; Strawberries (fresh, diced and tossed in sugar); Chocolate syrup; Dulce de leche; Sweetened coconut

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 36 reviews

If you love a dessert that combines crunchy texture with creamy bliss and a hint of warmth, then you are going to adore this Fried Ice Cream Recipe. It is a mouthwatering treat that starts with crispy, cinnamon-kissed corn flakes coating cold, smooth vanilla ice cream, creating a delightful contrast you won’t forget. Whether you want to impress guests or simply indulge yourself, this dessert hits every note perfectly—sweet, crunchy, creamy, and a little bit nostalgic all at once.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white plate holds a round dessert with a crunchy golden-brown outer layer and a smooth, creamy white ice cream inside, which is partially scooped out with a gold spoon resting on the plate. On top of the dessert is a swirl of white whipped cream drizzled with light amber syrup and crowned with a bright red cherry. To the side of the dessert are two halves of a fresh, red strawberry with green leaves, and in the background, slightly out of focus, are two whole strawberries. The plate sits on a white marbled textured surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting the ingredients right is key to making this Fried Ice Cream Recipe shine. The simplicity of the components allows each flavor and texture to stand out, making the dessert both approachable and unforgettable.

Corn Flakes Cereal (12-ounce box): Provides the essential crispy coating that adds a satisfying crunch.
Salted Butter (1/2 cup): Melts into the brown sugar mixture, adding richness and helping the coating stick perfectly.
Brown Sugar (1 cup): Brings a deep, caramel-like sweetness that complements the cinnamon beautifully.
Cinnamon (1 to 2 tablespoons): Adds warmth and a fragrant spice that elevates the crunchiness.
Vanilla Ice Cream (1/2 gallon): The creamy base that contrasts with the crunchy exterior and offers a classic, lovable flavor.
Honey, Caramel Sauce, Whipped Cream, Maraschino Cherries, Strawberries, Chocolate Syrup: Optional toppings that add extra flavor, color, and pizzazz when serving.

How to Make Fried Ice Cream Recipe

Step 1: Crush the Corn Flakes

Start by crushing your corn flakes inside the sealed box with a rolling pin until you get small, crunchy flakes. This step is essential for creating the perfect textured crust that will surround your ice cream balls.

Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Brown Sugar Coating

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the salted butter, then stir in the brown sugar and cinnamon. Cook this mixture until it is bubbly and fully smooth, about 4 to 5 minutes. This sweet and spiced mixture is what turns simple cereal into a golden, flavorful coating.

Step 3: Coat the Corn Flakes

Mix the crushed corn flakes into the warm cinnamon sugar butter mixture and stir until every flake is luxuriously coated. Remove from heat and let this mixture cool completely—this will ensure it crisps up just right on the ice cream.

Step 4: Form the Ice Cream Balls

Using an ice cream scoop, quickly form firm vanilla ice cream into balls roughly the size of a baseball. Working swiftly is key, so the ice cream doesn’t melt quickly in your hands as you roll them smooth and round.

Step 5: Coat the Ice Cream Balls

Roll each ice cream ball through the corn flake coating until they are thoroughly covered. Placing them on wax paper or parchment keeps them from sticking, and ensures your crunchy coating retains its texture.

Step 6: Freeze Until Firm

Pop the coated ice cream balls into the freezer for at least 1 to 2 hours or even overnight. This chilling step is crucial for setting the coating so it stays intact when served.

How to Serve Fried Ice Cream Recipe

A dessert is shown on a white plate with a green brushstroke design near the edge, placed on a white marbled surface. The dessert has three visible layers: the bottom layer is a rough-textured, round golden-brown fried ball with a crunchy appearance; the middle layer is a thick swirl of white whipped cream sitting on top of the fried ball; the top layer is a bright red maraschino cherry with a stem, placed on the whipped cream. On the plate near the dessert are two fresh strawberry halves, bright red with visible seeds and green leaves still attached, with three whole strawberries in the background. A light amber syrup drizzles from the top of the dessert and pools around the base, adding a glossy effect. A gold-colored spoon lies on the right side of the plate. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Top your fried ice cream with a drizzle of honey or caramel sauce for extra sweetness. Add a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream and crown it with a bright maraschino cherry to bring that classic diner feel. Sprinkling diced strawberries or a pinch of sweetened coconut can add freshness and color, making every bite even more delightful.

Side Dishes

This Fried Ice Cream Recipe pairs beautifully with light, fruity sides like fresh berries or a simple berry compote. You could also serve it alongside a warm, flaky pastry to contrast temperatures and textures, making the entire dessert experience even more exciting.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress? Serve your ice cream balls in individual mini bowls layered with crushed cookies or sprinkles. Another fun idea is to place the balls on small plates with a swirl of chocolate syrup or dulce de leche underneath and garnish with edible flowers for that wow factor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (though rare with this dish), keep the fried ice cream balls frozen on a tray until solid, then transfer them to an airtight container. This helps preserve the crispy coating and keeps the ice cream fresh.

Freezing

Freezing is your best friend with this Fried Ice Cream Recipe. Make multiple batches ahead of time, freeze them individually on a tray, and then store them in a container. When ready to enjoy, serve straight from the freezer—no need to thaw.

Reheating

This dessert is best enjoyed cold and crispy, so reheating is not recommended as it would melt the ice cream and soften the crunch. Instead, keep it frozen and serve immediately for the perfect bite every time.

FAQs

Can I use other cereals instead of corn flakes?

Absolutely! While corn flakes give just the right crunch and lightness, you can experiment with crushed rice crisps or even finely chopped nuts to create different textures and flavors.

Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?

Yes, swap out regular ice cream for a plant-based vanilla alternative, use a vegan butter substitute, and ensure your toppings are dairy-free too. The rest of the recipe remains the same!

How long can I store the coated ice cream balls in the freezer?

For the best quality, keep them frozen for up to one week. Beyond that, the texture might start to degrade, but they will still be enjoyable if kept airtight.

Can I prepare this dessert without deep-frying?

Definitely. This Fried Ice Cream Recipe is unique because it leverages a crunchy caramelized coating without an actual frying step, making it quicker and less messy while still tasting fabulous.

What toppings work best with fried ice cream?

Classic choices like whipped cream, caramel, honey, chocolate syrup, and cherries always work wonders. Fresh fruits like strawberries or mango also add a refreshing zing that balances the sweetness.

Final Thoughts

This Fried Ice Cream Recipe is a joyful dessert that combines simplicity with show-stopping flavor and texture. Whether it’s a special occasion or a spontaneous indulgence, give it a try—you’ll end up with a crunchy, creamy treat that feels like a warm hug from your favorite sweet memory. Trust me, once you taste it, you’ll want to make it again and again.