Craft The Ultimate Sundae With Fried Ice Cream

Like candy bars, bananas, Twinkies, and pizza, ice cream is one of those foods that's even better fried. While traditional sundaes are certainly charming, frying the ice cream creates a magical contrast of a hot, crispy surface and a cold, creamy center. The first bite of fried ice cream is nothing short of theatrical. As your spoon breaks through the golden-brown crust, you're met with a lovely crackle that gives way to icy, smooth ice cream within. Regular sundaes cannot match that sensory experience.

The exterior coating, which may consist of cornflakes, cookie crumbs, or even tempura from last night's dinner, provides a delightful crunch. The flavor profile of fried ice cream is equally impressive. The outer layer, often enhanced with cinnamon, honey, and a touch of vanilla, develops a subtle caramelization during frying.

The secret lies in the lightning-quick frying technique. Scoops of ice cream are carefully coated in a layer of crumbs or batter and submerged for just a few seconds in a vat of hot, neutral oil. The brief encounter with heat is enough to form the signature crispy shell while maintaining the integrity of the ice cream within.

Fried ice cream serves as a canvas for creative toppings. While delicious on its own, this dessert reaches new heights when adorned with garnishes. For instance, Mexican-style fried ice cream often features a vanilla base enveloped in crushed cornflakes, a light dusting of ground cinnamon, and a cascade of honey. For a more elaborate frozen treat, feel free to experiment with your favorite ice cream flavors and combinations.

You can't go wrong with chocolate ice cream, whipped cream, maraschino cherries, and ribbons of caramel sauce. You could also opt for salted caramel ice cream with dulce de leche, crushed churros, and melted chocolate. For a java-inspired creation, try coffee ice cream with toasted pecans, maple syrup, and a dash of sea salt. Fans of nuttier flavors might consider a combo like pistachio ice cream with matcha powder, ube jam, and sesame seeds. Of course, you can also go for something more fruit forward in the form of strawberry ice cream with fresh strawberry compote, white chocolate sauce, and mint leaves. So go ahead and add deep-frying your sundae centerpiece to your list of ice cream hacks you should try this summer, along with turning it into sweet bread or using a nearly empty peanut butter jar as your vessel.