Air Fryer Fried Ice Cream

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dessert is the perfect blend of hot and cold, creamy and crispy—all made easily in the air fryer. No deep fryer required, no splattering oil, and no compromise on taste. It’s an impressive treat that’s fun to serve and easy to customize with your favorite toppings, making it a go-to for entertaining or satisfying a late-night sweet tooth.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Vanilla ice cream (or your favorite flavor)

• Cornflakes or crushed cereal

• Ground cinnamon

• Sugar (optional)

• Butter

• Eggs

• Flour

• Optional toppings: whipped cream, chocolate syrup, caramel drizzle, cherries

Directions

1. Scoop out balls of ice cream and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze for at least 2–3 hours, or until very firm.

2. In a food processor or plastic bag, crush cornflakes into coarse crumbs. Mix with cinnamon and sugar (if using).

3. In a pan, melt butter and toast the crushed cornflakes mixture for 3–4 minutes until golden. Let cool completely.

4. Roll each frozen ice cream ball in flour, then dip in beaten egg, then coat with the toasted cornflake mixture.

5. For an extra crunchy shell, repeat the egg and cornflake coating one more time.

6. Place coated ice cream balls back into the freezer for at least 1 hour (longer is better for firmness).

7. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

8. Air fry each ball for 1–2 minutes until crisp and golden. Do not overcook or the ice cream may melt.

9. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Freezing time: 4–6 hours total
Cook time: 2 minutes
Total time: approx. 6 hours 20 minutes

Variations

• Different Ice Cream Flavors: Try chocolate, strawberry, or caramel ice cream for fun flavor twists.

• Nutty Coating: Mix chopped pecans or almonds with the cornflakes for extra crunch.

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free cereal and flour alternatives.

• Spiced Up: Add nutmeg or cardamom to the coating for a warm flavor profile.

• Tropical Version: Use coconut flakes in the coating and mango ice cream for a tropical twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store coated, uncooked ice cream balls in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 1 week.
Do not refreeze once air-fried.
To serve, cook straight from frozen in the air fryer for 1–2 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought coated ice cream?

No, it’s best to make your own coating so it’s air-fryer friendly and holds up under heat.

What keeps the ice cream from melting?

Freezing the coated ice cream thoroughly and cooking quickly at a high temperature keeps it from melting.

Can I skip toasting the cornflakes?

Toasting enhances the flavor and crunch, but it’s optional if you’re in a hurry.

What kind of cereal works best?

Cornflakes are traditional, but crispy rice cereal or crushed graham crackers also work.

Can I make this without flour?

Flour helps the coating stick better, but you can skip it if you double-coat with egg and cereal.

How do I shape the ice cream into balls?

Use an ice cream scoop, and if needed, mold with gloved hands before freezing.

Can I air fry more than one at a time?

Yes, if your air fryer has room and they don’t touch. Cook in batches if necessary.

How do I keep the coating from falling off?

Double-coat in egg and cereal, and freeze thoroughly before air frying.

Can I re-freeze leftovers?

No, once air-fried, they should be eaten immediately for the best texture.

What toppings pair best?

Chocolate syrup, caramel sauce, crushed nuts, whipped cream, or maraschino cherries are all great choices.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Fried Ice Cream is a modern, easy take on a classic indulgent dessert—bringing crispy, golden perfection to your table without the need for deep frying. Whether you’re entertaining guests or treating yourself, this sweet surprise is a showstopper that’s as fun to make as it is to eat

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