Homemade Fried Ice Cream with Fried Tortilla – A Crispy, Creamy, and Irresistible Dessert

Fried ice cream is a show-stopping dessert that combines hot and crispy textures with the cold creaminess of ice cream. This version takes it up a notch by serving the ice cream on a warm, crispy fried tortilla, dusted with cinnamon and sugar. The sweet crunch of the tortilla paired with the cold, creamy ice cream is an exciting contrast that turns a simple treat into a memorable dessert experience.

Whether you’re looking for a fun dessert to serve at a dinner party or a unique treat to enjoy with family, this homemade fried ice cream with fried tortilla is guaranteed to impress.

Why Make Fried Ice Cream with Fried Tortillas at Home?

The real question is: why not? Making fried ice cream at home is not only delicious, but it’s also an interactive dessert that gets everyone excited. You get to customize it to your liking, choosing your favorite ice cream flavors, toppings, and even experimenting with the crispy coating. When you add the fried tortilla base, it takes the dessert to the next level, giving it a warm, churro-like crunch that complements the ice cream beautifully.

Homemade fried ice cream allows you to control the ingredients, so you can skip any artificial flavors or preservatives and create a fresher, more flavorful dessert. Plus, it’s a fun way to get creative in the kitchen and impress your guests with a dessert that’s much easier to make than it looks.

Ingredients:

You don’t need any fancy ingredients to make this show-stopping dessert—just a few basics that you likely already have in your kitchen:

• 4 large scoops of vanilla ice cream (or your favorite flavor)
• 1 cup cornflakes, crushed
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• Vegetable oil (for frying)
• 4 small flour tortillas
• Optional toppings: chocolate syrup, caramel sauce, whipped cream, cherries, or honey

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ice Cream:
   • Start by scooping out four large, firm scoops of ice cream and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze the ice cream scoops for at least 1-2 hours, or until they are very firm. This step is crucial to prevent the ice cream from melting during the frying process.
2. Prepare the Coating:
   • In a shallow bowl, mix together the crushed cornflakes, cinnamon, and sugar until evenly combined. This will form the crunchy coating that gives the fried ice cream its signature texture. In a second bowl, beat the eggs, and in a third bowl, add the flour.
3. Coat the Ice Cream:
   • Remove the frozen ice cream scoops from the freezer and roll each one in the flour to create a light dusting. Then dip the floured ice cream scoops into the beaten eggs, making sure to coat them completely. Finally, roll them in the cornflake mixture, pressing the coating onto the ice cream to ensure it sticks well. Place the coated ice cream balls back in the freezer for another 1-2 hours to firm up. It’s important that they are completely frozen before frying to prevent the ice cream from melting too quickly.
4. Fry the Tortillas:
   • While the ice cream is firming up in the freezer, heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully fry each tortilla for about 1-2 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. After frying, drain the tortillas on paper towels and immediately sprinkle them with a mixture of cinnamon and sugar while they’re still warm. This turns the tortillas into sweet, crispy bases that perfectly complement the ice cream.
5. Heat the Oil for Frying the Ice Cream:
   • In a deep frying pan or pot, heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil to 375°F (190°C). Make sure the oil is hot enough to fry the coating quickly without melting the ice cream. This is key to achieving that perfect contrast between the crispy outside and the cold ice cream inside.
6. Fry the Ice Cream:
   • Working quickly and carefully, remove the coated ice cream balls from the freezer and drop each one into the hot oil. Fry for about 10-15 seconds, or until the coating is golden brown and crispy. Don’t leave the ice cream in the oil for too long, or it will start to melt. Remove the fried ice cream with a slotted spoon and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
7. Assemble the Dessert:
   • To serve, place each fried ice cream ball on a fried tortilla. Add your favorite toppings such as chocolate syrup, caramel sauce, whipped cream, or a cherry on top. The combination of the hot, crispy tortilla, cold ice cream, and sweet toppings is irresistible. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Tips for Perfect Fried Ice Cream with Tortillas:

• Keep the Ice Cream Cold: The key to successful fried ice cream is ensuring that the ice cream stays as cold as possible. Make sure the scoops are frozen solid before coating and frying them.
• Customize Your Coating: You can swap out the cornflakes for other crunchy coatings like crushed graham crackers, cookies, or even pretzels for a sweet and salty twist. For added flavor, mix in crushed nuts, shredded coconut, or chocolate chips.
• Work Quickly When Frying: You only need to fry the ice cream for a few seconds to crisp up the coating. The oil should be hot enough to fry the outside quickly, keeping the ice cream frozen inside.
• Fried Tortilla Variations: Want to take it up a notch? Brush the tortillas with melted butter before frying for an even richer flavor. You can also drizzle honey or sprinkle powdered sugar on the fried tortillas for an extra touch of sweetness.

Why Fried Ice Cream Is the Perfect Dessert:

Fried ice cream is a dessert that surprises and delights. The contrast between the crispy, warm coating and the cold, creamy center creates a unique eating experience that’s both exciting and delicious. The addition of the fried tortilla base not only adds another layer of texture but also makes the dessert more substantial and satisfying.

It’s a dessert that combines the best of both worlds—hot and cold, creamy and crispy—and can be customized to fit any flavor preference. Whether you’re using vanilla ice cream or something more adventurous like cinnamon or caramel swirl, fried ice cream is endlessly adaptable.

Creative Toppings for Fried Ice Cream:

While the classic chocolate syrup and whipped cream are always a hit, you can get creative with toppings to make this dessert your own. Here are a few fun ideas:

• Crushed candy bars: Add a sprinkle of crushed candy bars like Snickers, Kit-Kats, or Butterfingers for extra crunch.
• Fresh fruit: Top with sliced strawberries, raspberries, or bananas for a fruity twist.
• Drizzled sauces: Experiment with sauces like butterscotch, white chocolate, or even peanut butter sauce for added richness.

Health Considerations:

While fried ice cream is certainly a treat to enjoy in moderation, there are ways to lighten it up if you’re looking for a healthier version. You can bake the tortillas instead of frying them, or use lighter ice cream options like frozen yogurt or dairy-free ice cream. However, as a special occasion dessert, this indulgent treat is worth every bite!

Fun Fact:

Fried ice cream is often associated with Mexican cuisine, but its exact origins are debated. Some say it was first introduced at American fairs in the early 20th century, while others believe it became popular in Asian restaurants. Regardless of where it came from, it’s a beloved dessert that has found its way onto menus worldwide, combining the thrill of crispy and creamy in one delicious dish!