Caramel Fried Ice Cream
Creamy vanilla ice cream coated with shredded coconut and crushed cornflakes, then deep-fried to golden perfection and drizzled with rich caramel sauce — a delightful treat for dessert lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Using a 1/2 cup ice cream scoop, place 8 scoops of ice cream on a baking sheet.
- Cover and freeze for 2 hours or until firm.
- Prepare the caramel sauce by cooking sugar and butter until caramelized, then adding evaporated milk and stirring until smooth.
- Place the whipped cream and vanilla into a bowl and mix well.
- Combine the finely chopped coconut, crushed cornflakes, and cinnamon in a shallow dish.
- Roll each frozen ice cream scoop in the coconut and cornflake mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Heat oil for deep frying to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the coated ice cream scoops until golden brown, about 30-60 seconds.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Serve immediately drizzled with caramel sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve the best texture, ensure the ice cream scoops are well-frozen before coating them. You can substitute crushed graham crackers for cornflakes if desired, and consider using dairy-free ice cream for a vegan version. For a twist, add a pinch of nutmeg to the coconut mixture for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the caramel fried ice cream immediately for the best experience. It pairs beautifully with a fresh fruit salad, such as Light Luscious Lime Salad, which adds a refreshing contrast. Consider drizzling extra caramel sauce or chocolate syrup over the top for added indulgence.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover fried ice cream is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store any un-fried coated scoops in an airtight container in the freezer for up to a week. Reheat them in a hot oil bath for a few seconds to regain their crispy texture before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Caramel Fried Ice Cream contains roughly 3505 calories, with 11g protein, 122g carbohydrates, and 304g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (31% of the Daily Value), protein (22% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 572mg per serving (25% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of ice cream for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can experiment with any flavor of ice cream, such as chocolate or strawberry, to create unique variations of this dish. Just ensure the ice cream is firm enough to hold its shape during frying.
Is it possible to make this recipe without frying?
Yes, if you prefer a healthier alternative, you can bake the coated ice cream scoops at 400°F (200°C) for about 5-7 minutes until golden. This method will not achieve the same texture but will be a lighter option.
What can I serve with fried ice cream?
Fried ice cream pairs wonderfully with toppings like whipped cream, fresh fruits, or even a scoop of sorbet. For a complete dessert experience, serve alongside Staci'S Old Fashioned Banana Pudding or your favorite pie.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).