How To Make Fried Ice Cream Ahead Of Time – The Easy Way!
What To Know
- Store the coated ice cream balls in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.
- Store fried ice cream in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Place the frozen fried ice cream on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
Fried ice cream is a tantalizing dessert that combines the crispiness of fried dough with the creamy indulgence of ice cream. While this delectable treat may seem like a culinary masterpiece, the question arises: can you make fried ice cream ahead of time? The answer is a resounding yes, with a few clever techniques and proper storage.
Why Make Fried Ice Cream Ahead of Time?
Preparing fried ice cream ahead of time offers several benefits:
- Convenience: Save time and effort by prepping the components in advance, allowing you to focus on the final assembly and frying process closer to serving time.
- Hosting Made Easy: Impress your guests with a delicious dessert without the last-minute stress of preparing everything fresh.
- Meal Planning: Include fried ice cream in your meal plan by making it ahead of time and freezing it for future enjoyment.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Fried Ice Cream Ahead of Time
1. Prepare the Ice Cream
- Choose a firm ice cream that will hold its shape well when fried.
- Scoop ice cream into balls or desired shapes and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Freeze the ice cream balls for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Create the Batter
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
3. Coat the Ice Cream Balls
- Dip the frozen ice cream balls into the batter, ensuring they are fully coated.
- Roll the coated ice cream balls in panko breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes for a crispy texture.
- Freeze the coated ice cream balls for at least 2 hours.
4. Fry the Ice Cream
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large saucepan to 375°F (190°C).
- Carefully drop the frozen ice cream balls into the hot oil and fry for 1-2 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Remove the fried ice cream balls and drain them on paper towels.
Storage Instructions
For the Ice Cream Balls
- Freezer: Store the coated ice cream balls in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.
For the Fried Ice Cream
- Room Temperature: Fried ice cream can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 hours.
- Refrigerator: Store fried ice cream in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Refreeze fried ice cream in an airtight container for up to 1 month.
Tips for Reheating Fried Ice Cream
From Frozen
- Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the frozen fried ice cream in the air fryer basket and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through.
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the frozen fried ice cream on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
From Refrigerated
- Microwave: Place the refrigerated fried ice cream on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave on high for 15-30 seconds, or until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the refrigerated fried ice cream and cook for 1-2 minutes per side, or until warmed through.
Variations on Fried Ice Cream
- Flavorful Ice Cream: Use different flavors of ice cream, such as vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, or mint.
- Alternative Coatings: Experiment with different coatings, such as crushed graham crackers, crushed Oreos, or coconut flakes.
- Drizzles and Toppings: Enhance the flavor with drizzles of chocolate sauce, caramel sauce, or fruit compote. Top with whipped cream, sprinkles, or chopped nuts.
What People Want to Know
Q: Can I make the batter ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the batter up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Q: How do I prevent the ice cream from melting too quickly when frying?
A: Ensure the ice cream balls are frozen solid before coating them in batter. The cold ice cream will help prevent the ice cream from melting too quickly when frying.
Q: Can I fry frozen fried ice cream balls directly from the freezer?
A: Yes, you can fry frozen fried ice cream balls directly from the freezer. However, you may need to adjust the frying time slightly to ensure they are cooked through.
Q: Can I make gluten-free fried ice cream?
A: Yes, you can use gluten-free flour in place of regular flour to create gluten-free fried ice cream.
Q: How do I reheat fried ice cream without losing its crispiness?
A: Reheat fried ice cream in an air fryer or oven to maintain its crispiness. Avoid reheating it in the microwave, as it can make the coating soggy.
