Fried ice cream is a popular dessert that combines the contrasting textures of crispy and creamy. Traditionally, this dessert is made by coating ice cream in a layer of batter or breadcrumbs and then deep-frying it. However, with the invention of the air fryer, you can now enjoy this delectable treat with a healthier twist. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making fried ice cream in an air fryer, ensuring a delicious outcome every time!
Getting Started: Gather Your Ingredients and Equipment
Ingredients:
To make fried ice cream in an air fryer, you will need the following ingredients:
– Ice cream of your choice (vanilla, chocolate, or any other flavor you prefer)
– Crushed cornflakes (you can also use crushed cookies or graham crackers)
– Eggs (for the egg wash)
– All-purpose flour
– Honey (or your favorite syrup for drizzling)
– Optional: whipped cream, chocolate sauce, or any other toppings you desire
Equipment:
Aside from the ingredients, you will need the following equipment:
– An air fryer
– Mixing bowls
– Whisk or fork
– Ice cream scoop
– Baking sheet or plate
– Plastic wrap or parchment paper
The Step-by-Step Process of Making Fried Ice Cream in an Air Fryer
Step 1: Preparing Your Ice Cream Balls
To start, you need to prepare your ice cream balls. Using an ice cream scoop, form small, round balls of ice cream. You can choose to make them as big or as small as you prefer. Once you have formed the ice cream balls, place them on a baking sheet or plate lined with plastic wrap or parchment paper. Make sure they are not touching each other and place them in the freezer. Allow the ice cream balls to freeze completely, which typically takes around 1 to 2 hours.
Step 2: Assembling Your Coating Station
While the ice cream balls are freezing, it’s time to assemble your coating station. Take three separate bowls and fill one with all-purpose flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with crushed cornflakes. Set them up in a row, starting from the flour, followed by the eggs, and ending with the cornflakes. This setup will allow for an organized and efficient coating process.
Step 3: Coating Your Ice Cream Balls
Now that your coating station is ready, it’s time to coat the ice cream balls. Take one frozen ice cream ball out of the freezer and roll it in the flour, ensuring it is fully covered. Next, dip the floured ice cream ball into the beaten eggs, making sure it is evenly coated. Finally, roll the egg-coated ice cream ball in the crushed cornflakes until it is completely covered. Repeat this process for all the frozen ice cream balls.
Step 4: Preheating Your Air Fryer
Before you air fry the coated ice cream balls, you need to preheat your air fryer. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for preheating, but typically, it involves setting the air fryer to the desired temperature (around 350°F or 175°C) and allowing it to preheat for a few minutes.
Step 5: Air Frying the Coated Ice Cream Balls
Once your air fryer is preheated, it’s time to air fry the coated ice cream balls. Carefully place the coated ice cream balls into the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching each other. Close the air fryer and set the timer for about 2-3 minutes. Cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer, so keep a close eye on the ice cream balls as they cook. You want them to be lightly golden and crispy on the outside while still keeping their frozen goodness intact on the inside.
Step 6: Serving Your Fried Ice Cream
After the allotted cooking time, carefully remove the fried ice cream balls from the air fryer. Place them on a serving plate and drizzle them with honey or your favorite syrup. You can also add additional toppings such as whipped cream, chocolate sauce, or sprinkles to enhance the presentation and taste. Serve the fried ice cream immediately as it tends to melt quickly.
Final Thoughts
Making fried ice cream in an air fryer is a fun and delicious way to enjoy this classic dessert. By using the air fryer, you can achieve a crispy exterior without the need for deep-frying, making it a healthier alternative. Remember to experiment with various coatings and toppings to personalize your fried ice cream experience. So, go ahead and give this deliciously easy recipe a try – you won’t be disappointed!