Go Back Email Link
+ servings
Fried Ice Cream

No-Fry Fried Ice Cream

Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 3 minutes
Chill/Freeze Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Cornflake-coated vanilla ice cream balls with all the drama, none of the actual frying. Crunchy, cinnamon-scented outer magic meets cold, creamy centers, dressed up with honey, fudge, whipped cream, and cherries for major dessert theater, minus the flames.
4 Servings

Ingredients

Crunchy Coating

  • 3 cups corn flakes plain, not sweetened
  • 4 tbsp salted butter or unsalted with a pinch of salt
  • 2 tsp ground cinnamon

Ice Cream Balls

  • 4 scoops vanilla ice cream full-fat, about 4 oz each

Toppings

  • honey or caramel sauce for drizzling
  • chocolate fudge sauce for drizzling
  • whipped cream for topping
  • cherries fresh or maraschino, for garnish

Equipment

  • Large zip-top freezer bag
  • Rolling pin or food processor
  • Non-stick skillet
  • Spoon or ice cream scoop
  • Parchment-lined baking sheet

Instructions
 

  1. Crush the cornflakes: Place corn flakes in a large freezer bag (leaving a small gap for air), then crush with a rolling pin until you have small crumbles. Alternatively, pulse in a food processor until just chunky.
  2. Toast the cornflakes: In a non-stick skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Once bubbly, stir in crushed corn flakes and cinnamon. Continue stirring for 2, 3 minutes, until golden brown and fragrant. Remove from heat and transfer to a shallow bowl; let cool.
  3. Shape the ice cream: Using a 4 oz scoop, portion out ice cream and shape quickly into a ball with your hands. (Tip: chill hands first or wear food-safe gloves to minimize melting.)
  4. Coat the ice cream: Roll each ice cream ball in the cooled cornflake mixture, pressing lightly so the coating adheres. Shake off any excess.
  5. Freeze: Place coated ice cream balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze for at least 15 minutes, or up to a week in an airtight container.
  6. Finish and serve: When ready to serve, drizzle with honey or caramel and chocolate fudge sauces. Top with whipped cream and a cherry. Serve immediately!

Notes

Stash extra crunchy coating in a jar for topping yogurt, pancakes, or even bliss balls. For nut lovers, toss in a handful of chopped toasted pecans or almonds. For a vegan version, swap in plant-based ice cream and vegan butter.

Nutrition

Serving: 1ball | Calories: 370kcal | Carbohydrates: 43g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 20g | Saturated Fat: 12g | Cholesterol: 60mg | Sodium: 280mg | Potassium: 210mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 27g | Vitamin A: 740IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 160mg | Iron: 2mg