Easy Mexican Fried Ice Cream Recipe: A Crunchy and Creamy Delight

When you think of a dessert that is both warm and cold, crunchy and creamy, Mexican Fried Ice Cream comes to mind. Imagine biting into a crispy, golden shell that reveals a cold, velvety scoop of ice cream inside. The contrast of hot and cold, along with the sweet crunch of cinnamon-infused cornflakes, makes this dessert a show-stopper. Perfect for parties or just a sweet treat after dinner, this Easy Mexican Fried Ice Cream is sure to impress!

Photo byRecipe Smooth

I first came across this delightful treat in a local restaurant and couldn't believe how the contrasting textures played together so beautifully. Determined to recreate the experience, I found this amazing recipe, which has become a staple in my home. Sharing it today, I want to credit the wonderful Recipe Smooth Facebook group for inspiring this delicious journey. You can check out more of their great recipes here.

A Sweet History of Mexican Fried Ice Cream

While the exact origins of Mexican Fried Ice Cream are a bit of a mystery, many believe that it gained popularity in Mexican restaurants in the U.S. during the 1980s. The idea of a crispy, fried exterior paired with creamy ice cream has universal appeal, making it a beloved dessert in various cuisines. Some even suggest it has ties to Asian cuisines or American fairs, where deep-fried treats are a hit. No matter its roots, Mexican Fried Ice Cream has become a fan favorite, and for a good reason—it’s indulgent, delicious, and fun to make!

Ingredients You'll Need:

• 4 large scoops vanilla ice cream (firmly frozen)
• 2 cups cornflakes, crushed
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1/4 cup honey (optional for drizzling)
• Oil for frying
• Whipped cream (for garnish)
• Maraschino cherries (for garnish)

How to Make Mexican Fried Ice Cream at Home:

1. Prepare the Ice Cream Balls: Roll the scoops of vanilla ice cream into firm balls and place them on a baking sheet. Freeze for at least 1 hour until the ice cream is very firm. This step is crucial to ensure they don’t melt when frying.
2. Make the Coating: In a bowl, mix the crushed cornflakes, cinnamon, and sugar. The cinnamon adds a warm, spicy note that pairs wonderfully with the sweet crunch.
3. Coat the Ice Cream: In another bowl, beat the eggs. Roll each frozen ice cream ball in the cornflakes mixture, then dip into the beaten eggs, and roll again in the cornflakes to create a thick, crispy coating. This double coating ensures an extra-crispy exterior.
4. Freeze Again: Place the coated ice cream balls back on the baking sheet and freeze for another 2 hours or until they are very firm. The second freeze helps keep the coating intact during frying.
5. Fry to Perfection: Heat oil in a deep fryer or deep skillet to 375°F (190°C). Fry each coated ice cream ball for about 10-15 seconds, just until golden brown. Don’t over-fry, or the ice cream will melt! Remove and place on paper towels to drain any excess oil.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately with a drizzle of honey, a dollop of whipped cream, and a maraschino cherry on top for that classic touch. The honey adds a delicious sweetness that complements the warm, crispy coating.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Mexican Fried Ice Cream:

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the coated ice cream balls a day in advance and keep them in the freezer. Just fry them when you’re ready to serve.
• Customize the Flavor: Try using different ice cream flavors like chocolate, coffee, or even strawberry for a unique twist.
• Healthy Twist: If you're looking to cut back on the frying, you can roll the ice cream in toasted cornflakes for a no-fry version. It won't be as crispy, but it's still delicious!

Call to Action:

Did you enjoy this Easy Mexican Fried Ice Cream Recipe? Give it a try and share your thoughts in the comments below! If you loved it, don't forget to share this recipe with friends and follow me for more delicious dessert ideas. And a big shoutout again to the Recipe Smooth Facebook group for their inspiration—be sure to check them out for more recipe gems here!