Crispy on the Outside, Cold and Creamy on the Inside—A Dessert Like No Other!

If you’ve ever tried Mexican Fried Ice Cream, you know it’s a showstopper. That crunchy golden crust encasing a perfectly cold scoop of vanilla ice cream, topped with whipped cream, syrup, and a cherry—it’s everything you want in a dessert. Hot and cold. Creamy and crispy. Sweet with a hint of cinnamon.

This beloved restaurant treat is surprisingly easy to make at home with just a few pantry staples and a bit of planning. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating Cinco de Mayo, or just looking to impress someone special, this is the dessert that will do it.

🇲🇽 What Is Mexican Fried Ice Cream?

Despite its name, this dessert isn’t always Mexican in origin but is a popular offering at many Mexican-American restaurants. It’s known for its contrast of temperatures and textures: ice cream that stays cold and firm on the inside after a lightning-quick fry on the outside.

The key to success? Freezing the scoops thoroughly, double-coating them in a crunchy layer, and frying for just a few seconds to achieve the perfect crispy shell without melting the core.

⭐ Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ Easy prep, big impact – Looks impressive, but simple to prepare.
✅ Great make-ahead dessert – Perfect for parties.
✅ Customizable toppings – Chocolate syrup, caramel, cinnamon sugar, cherries, whipped cream—you decide.
✅ Unique dessert experience – That crisp-fried shell over frozen ice cream is unforgettable!

🧾 Ingredients at a Glance

For the Ice Cream Balls:

4 large scoops vanilla ice cream – Creamy and classic; use premium ice cream for best results.
2 cups cornflakes, crushed – Adds the perfect crunch; you can crush by hand or pulse in a food processor.
1 tsp ground cinnamon – Adds warm, spicy-sweet aroma.
2 tbsp granulated sugar – Gives a little extra sweetness and helps the cornflakes caramelize.
2 eggs + 2 tbsp milk – Helps bind the coating in place.
Vegetable oil – Neutral oil like canola or sunflower for deep-frying.

Toppings (Optional but Highly Recommended):

Whipped cream – Adds light, fluffy contrast.
Honey or chocolate syrup – A sweet drizzle takes it over the top.
Cinnamon sugar – For that signature flavor finish.
Maraschino cherries – Classic and nostalgic.

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Directions

1️⃣ Form Ice Cream Balls

Scoop out 4 large, firm scoops of vanilla ice cream.
Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Freeze for at least 2 hours, or until very firm.

Pro Tip: Use a firm scoop and work quickly—ice cream melts fast.

2️⃣ Prepare the Coating

In one bowl, mix:
- 2 cups crushed cornflakes
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
In another bowl, whisk together:
- 2 eggs
- 2 tbsp milk

3️⃣ Coat the Ice Cream Balls

Take each frozen ice cream ball and:
1. Roll in the cornflake mixture
2. Dip in the egg mixture
3. Roll again in the cornflake mixture

This double coating is key to achieving a solid crust that won’t melt instantly when fried.

Once coated, return to the freezer for another 2 hours or overnight.

💡 Longer freeze = better fry. The colder the ice cream, the better it holds up during frying.

4️⃣ Heat the Oil

Fill a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot with 2 inches of vegetable oil.
Heat oil to 375°F (190°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy.

5️⃣ Fry the Ice Cream

Carefully lower one coated ice cream ball into the hot oil using a slotted spoon or wire spider.
Fry for just 8–10 seconds until golden brown.
Remove immediately and drain on paper towels.

Repeat for each ice cream ball.

⚠️ Don’t walk away! Each fry is only a few seconds long.

6️⃣ Assemble and Serve

Place each fried ice cream ball in a dessert dish.
Top with whipped cream, a drizzle of honey or chocolate syrup, a dusting of cinnamon sugar, and a maraschino cherry.

Serve immediately, while the contrast of hot and cold is at its best!

🧁 Tips & Variations

Cornflake Alternatives: Try crushed graham crackers, pretzels, or sweetened cereal like Frosted Flakes.
Flavor Twist: Use caramel swirl or cinnamon ice cream for a flavor boost.
Make It Boozy: Drizzle with a splash of Kahlua or Bailey’s for an adult version.
Mini Versions: Make 8 smaller balls for bite-sized party desserts.

❄️ Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

Freeze fully coated balls overnight if prepping ahead for an event.
Only fry just before serving. They do not reheat well after frying.
Store un-fried balls in a sealed container in the freezer for up to 3 days.