Hot Meets Cold – Learn How to Make Deep-Fried Ice Cream

Master the art of making deep-fried ice cream with our step-by-step guide. We’ll show you how to create this irresistible, crispy, and creamy homemade dessert.

I recall many years ago, whilst in Scotland, being introduced to deep-fried ice cream. I have to admit, the concept of deep-fried ice cream seemed very wrong to me. Ice Cream, deep-fried? Really?

Firstly, how on earth do you deep fry ice cream without it melting, and secondly, that crispy deep-fried finish versus creamy ice cream? I wasn’t convinced it was something that could work or that I would like it.

And then I tried it! I was very surprised and taken aback by the combination of the crispy deep-fried texture with the creamy, smooth, cool ice cream inside. Quite unique and very delicious.

In this article, we’ll provide a comprehensive overview of deep-fried ice cream, providing some history, techniques, and of course, a detailed recipe and step-by-step guide for you to learn how to make deep-fried ice cream at home.

If you would rather go straight to our recipe, then click on the following link, or read along to find out more.

Jump to Homemade Deep-Fried Ice Cream Recipe

The History of Deep Fried Ice Cream

Deep-fried ice cream is a curious dessert that combines contrasting elements—hot and cold, crispy and creamy—to create a unique culinary experience. While the exact origins of deep-fried ice cream are debated, its history is as rich as the dessert itself.

Origins of the Dessert

The origins of deep-fried ice cream are somewhat mysterious, with several cultures laying claim to its invention. Some believe it was first created in the United States during the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair, while others suggest that it has roots in Asian or Mexican cuisine.

Deep-fried ice cream has evolved over the years, with various cultures putting their own spin on the dish.

In Japan, tempura batter is used to encase the ice cream, offering a light, crispy texture.

In Mexico, the dessert is often coated with a mixture of crushed cornflakes and cinnamon, then fried to create a crunchy exterior.

In Western countries, breadcrumbs, nuts, or even cookie crumbs are commonly used to achieve the desired crispiness.

Popularity Over the Years

Despite its diverse origins, deep-fried ice cream has gained widespread popularity across the globe for which there is good reason. Its appeal lies in the contrast of temperatures and textures—a cold, creamy centre enveloped in a hot, crispy shell.

This balance of hot and cold has intrigued dessert lovers for decades, making deep-fried ice cream a much-loved treat in many restaurants and homes.

The Intricacies of Hot vs Cold

Balancing Temperatures

One of the key challenges in making deep-fried ice cream is achieving the perfect balance between the hot exterior and the cold interior. The goal is to create a crispy outer layer without melting the ice cream inside. This requires careful attention to timing and technique.

Challenges and Solutions

Maintaining the temperature of the ice cream while frying is critical. The ice cream must be frozen solid—preferably overnight—before being coated and fried. Additionally, the oil must be hot enough (around 190°C) to quickly fry the coating without allowing the heat to penetrate and melt the ice cream too quickly. Using a thick coating and frying for a short duration are essential strategies to avoid a melting disaster.

The Physics Behind the Dish

Crafting the Perfect External Layer

The external layer of deep-fried ice cream is crucial to its success. This layer acts as a barrier, insulating the ice cream from the hot oil. The coating must be thick and evenly applied to ensure it crisps up quickly while protecting the cold core.

Ingredients Needed

To craft the perfect deep-fried ice cream, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Ice Cream: Choose your favourite flavour. Vanilla, chocolate, or even matcha work well.
• Eggs: Used for binding the coating.
• Plain Flour: Helps the coating adhere to the ice cream.
• Breadcrumbs or Cornflakes: For the crispy exterior. You can also use crushed biscuits or nuts for added flavour.
• Cinnamon (optional): Adds a warm, spicy note.
• Vegetable Oil: For frying.

Techniques for Preparation

Importance of Layer for Taste and Texture

The coating layer should not only be thick but also uniform. A well-crafted layer ensures a consistent texture and taste, with every bite offering the perfect balance between crispy and creamy.

Hints and Tips for Optimum Results

• Freeze Thoroughly: Ensure the ice cream balls are frozen solid before coating and frying.
• Double Coat: For extra crispiness, consider double coating the ice cream. After the first coat, freeze again before applying a second layer.
• Quick Fry: Fry the coated ice cream for no more than 10-15 seconds to prevent melting.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Insufficient Freezing: Not freezing the ice cream thoroughly will result in a soggy mess.
• Oil Too Cold: If the oil isn’t hot enough, the coating will absorb too much oil, making it greasy.

Pro Tips

• Experiment with Coatings: Mix and match coatings for different flavours and textures. Try combining crushed nuts with breadcrumbs or adding a pinch of sea salt to the coating for a sweet-savoury twist.
• Serve Immediately: Deep-fried ice cream is best enjoyed straight from the fryer while the contrast between hot and cold is at its peak.

Homemade Deep-Fried Ice Cream Recipe

Now that you understand the intricacies of making deep-fried ice cream, allow us to share our recipe and method with you:

Ingredients:

• 4 scoops of ice cream (your choice of flavour)
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 100g plain flour
• 200g breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
• Vegetable oil for frying

Method:

• Prepare the Ice Cream Balls:
  • Scoop the ice cream into four round balls. Place them on a tray lined with baking paper and freeze for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
• Coat the Ice Cream:
  • Set up a coating station with three bowls: one with plain flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes mixed with cinnamon.
  • Take one frozen ice cream ball and roll it in the flour, ensuring it’s fully covered. Then, dip it into the beaten eggs, letting any excess drip off before rolling it in the breadcrumb mixture. For a thicker coating, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps.
• Freeze Again:
  • Place the coated ice cream balls back in the freezer for at least 1 hour to firm up.
• Fry the Ice Cream:
  • Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 190°C (375°F). Carefully lower one ice cream ball into the hot oil and fry for 10-15 seconds, just until the coating turns golden brown.
  • Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Repeat with the remaining ice cream balls.
• Serve Immediately:
  • Serve the deep-fried ice cream immediately, garnished with a drizzle of chocolate sauce, a dusting of icing sugar, or a sprinkle of nuts if desired.

Final Thoughts

Deep-fried ice cream is without a doubt a dessert that surprises with its contrasting textures and temperatures.

By understanding the history, techniques, and challenges involved, you can master this unique treat at home. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with different flavours and coatings, the result is sure to impress.

We hope you have enjoyed our article – Hot Meets Cold: Learn How to Make Deep Fried Ice Cream – and we especially hope that we have inspired you to give this raht er curious, but delicious ice cream dessert a go.

If you like the sound of hot versus cold ice cream desserts, then check out our Baked Alaska recipe, another fantastic ice cream dessert where you use both hot and cold to deliver a sensational taste sensation. – Check it out here – Homemade Baked Alaska. It’s the Bomb!

If you have any questions, please drop us a comment below and we will happily get back to you.

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