An Easy Mexican Fried Ice Cream recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a classic dessert with a twist. This no-fry version offers a creamy ice cream center coated in cinnamon sugar and crispy corn flakes. It’s perfect for parties, family gatherings, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth. The combination of textures and flavors makes it stand out, while the toppings like hot fudge and whipped cream elevate its appeal.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Ice Cream Base
- For Coating
- For Garnish
- How to Make Easy Mexican Fried Ice Cream
- Step 1: Shape the Ice Cream
- Step 2: Prepare the Corn Flakes Coating
- Step 3: Mix Cinnamon Sugar
- Step 4: Coat the Ice Cream Balls
- Step 5: Add Toppings
- How to Serve Easy Mexican Fried Ice Cream
- Top with Delicious Extras
- Pair with Fresh Fruits
- Create an Ice Cream Sundae Bar
- How to Perfect Easy Mexican Fried Ice Cream
- Best Side Dishes for Easy Mexican Fried Ice Cream
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Easy Mexican Fried Ice Cream
- Reheating Easy Mexican Fried Ice Cream
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Easy Mexican Fried Ice Cream?
- Can I use different flavors of ice cream?
- How do I make this recipe vegan?
- Can I prepare Easy Mexican Fried Ice Cream ahead of time?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe requires minimal prep time, making it ideal for busy days when you crave something special.
- No Frying Needed: Enjoy all the flavors of fried ice cream without the hassle of frying, keeping it light and simple.
- Versatile Toppings: Customize your dessert with various toppings like chocolate sauce, whipped cream, or fresh fruit for a personal touch.
- Family-Friendly Fun: Involve kids in shaping the ice cream balls and coating them—it’s a fun activity for everyone!
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday celebration or just an ordinary Tuesday, this dessert fits any moment.
Tools and Preparation
To make your easy Mexican fried ice cream, you’ll need some essential tools that make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Ice cream scooper
- Baking sheet
- Small skillet
- Mixing bowl
Importance of Each Tool
- Ice cream scooper: Makes perfectly round ice cream balls with ease.
- Baking sheet: Holds the shaped ice cream as it freezes, preventing melting during preparation.
- Small skillet: Ideal for toasting corn flakes evenly without burning.
- Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining ingredients quickly and efficiently.
Ingredients
Here’s what you will need to create this mouthwatering dessert:
For the Ice Cream Base
- 4 large scoops ice cream
For Coating
- 2 tbsp sugar
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tbsp butter
- 2 cups corn flakes (crushed)
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
For Garnish
- Whipped Cream
- Hot fudge sauce
- Cherries

How to Make Easy Mexican Fried Ice Cream
Step 1: Shape the Ice Cream
Scoop the ice cream into round balls using your ice cream scooper. Place the balls on a baking sheet or plate. Put them in the freezer for at least 3 hours to firm up.
Step 2: Prepare the Corn Flakes Coating
Crush the corn flakes until they’re coarse crumbs. Sprinkle them with ½ tsp ground cinnamon. Heat the butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the crushed corn flakes and sauté for about 3 minutes or until they turn golden brown.
Step 3: Mix Cinnamon Sugar
In a small mixing bowl, combine the 2 tbsp sugar with the remaining ½ tsp ground cinnamon. Stir well to mix thoroughly.
Step 4: Coat the Ice Cream Balls
Remove the ice cream from the freezer. Roll each ball in the cinnamon sugar mixture first, then coat it with toasted corn flakes. Press gently to ensure that the coating sticks well.
Step 5: Add Toppings
Top each coated ice cream ball with hot fudge sauce, a generous amount of whipped cream, and finish with a cherry on top.
Enjoy your homemade Easy Mexican Fried Ice Cream as an irresistible treat!
How to Serve Easy Mexican Fried Ice Cream
Serving Easy Mexican Fried Ice Cream is all about enhancing its delightful flavors and textures. This dessert can be dressed up in various ways to make it even more enjoyable and visually appealing.
Top with Delicious Extras
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle hot fudge or chocolate syrup over the ice cream for a rich sweetness.
- Whipped Cream: A generous dollop of whipped cream adds a light, creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the crispy coating.
- Cherries: Place a maraschino cherry on top for a classic touch and a pop of color.
Pair with Fresh Fruits
- Strawberries: Fresh strawberries cut into slices complement the sweetness of the ice cream with their tartness.
- Bananas: Sliced bananas bring an extra creaminess and flavor that pairs perfectly with the cinnamon.
Create an Ice Cream Sundae Bar
- Toppings Galore: Set up a variety of toppings like nuts, sprinkles, and caramel sauce for a fun, interactive dessert experience.
- Ice Cream Flavors: Offer different ice cream flavors such as vanilla, chocolate, or strawberry to mix things up.
How to Perfect Easy Mexican Fried Ice Cream
To ensure your Easy Mexican Fried Ice Cream turns out perfectly, follow these simple tips.
- Bold Freeze the Ice Cream: Make sure your ice cream balls are frozen solid before breading. This helps them maintain their shape.
- Bold Crush Corn Flakes Finely: The finer you crush the corn flakes, the better they will adhere to the ice cream and provide a crunchier texture.
- Bold Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality ice cream and fresh spices. This elevates the overall taste of your dessert.
- Bold Experiment with Toppings: Don’t be afraid to try different sauces or fruits. Customizing toppings can add unique flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Mexican Fried Ice Cream
When serving Easy Mexican Fried Ice Cream, consider pairing it with side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some excellent options:
- Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips: Crispy chips sprinkled with cinnamon sugar create a delightful crunch alongside the creamy dessert.
- Mexican Chocolate Cake: A rich cake infused with spices offers a decadent contrast to the refreshing ice cream.
- Flan: The creamy texture of flan balances well with the crispy fried ice cream and adds an authentic Mexican touch.
- Tres Leches Cake: This moist cake soaked in three types of milk is sweet and pairs wonderfully with cold desserts.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness, cutting through the richness of the ice cream.
- Churros: These crispy treats dusted in sugar are perfect for dipping into melted chocolate or enjoying alongside your dessert.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Easy Mexican Fried Ice Cream can be simple, but there are a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
Skipping the Freezer Time: Not freezing the ice cream long enough can result in melting during assembly. Ensure it’s frozen for at least 3 hours to maintain shape.
Overheating the Corn Flakes: Burning the corn flakes will ruin the flavor. Toast them on medium heat and watch closely to achieve a perfect golden brown.
Not Using Fresh Ingredients: Stale corn flakes or old cinnamon can affect taste. Always check your ingredients for freshness before starting.
Ignoring Portion Sizes: Making too large scoops of ice cream can make it difficult to coat evenly. Use standard ice cream scoops for consistent servings.
Rushing the Coating Process: If you don’t coat quickly enough, the ice cream might melt. Work efficiently to ensure all parts are covered without delay.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Easy Mexican Fried Ice Cream in an airtight container.
- It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but best enjoyed fresh.
Freezing Easy Mexican Fried Ice Cream
- Place any remaining portions in a freezer-safe container.
- Properly sealed, it can last up to 1 week in the freezer.
Reheating Easy Mexican Fried Ice Cream
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 5 minutes just to warm slightly; this is not recommended as it may melt.
- Microwave: Heat on low power in short bursts of 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to melt completely.
- Stovetop: Not applicable for this dessert as reheating is generally not recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions
What is Easy Mexican Fried Ice Cream?
Easy Mexican Fried Ice Cream is a delightful dessert featuring cold ice cream coated with crispy corn flakes and cinnamon sugar, topped with chocolate sauce and whipped cream.
Can I use different flavors of ice cream?
Absolutely! You can customize this recipe by using any flavor of ice cream you prefer, such as chocolate or strawberry, to make your own version of Easy Mexican Fried Ice Cream.
How do I make this recipe vegan?
To make a vegan version, simply use dairy-free ice cream and substitute butter with a plant-based alternative.
Can I prepare Easy Mexican Fried Ice Cream ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare and freeze the coated ice cream balls ahead of time, making them ready to serve whenever you want a delicious treat.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Mexican Fried Ice Cream recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. With its creamy texture and crispy coating, it’s sure to impress at any gathering. Feel free to customize toppings or try different flavors of ice cream to suit your taste. Enjoy making this delightful dessert!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
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Easy Mexican Fried Ice Cream
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the delightful fusion of flavors and textures with this Easy Mexican Fried Ice Cream recipe. This no-fry treat features a creamy ice cream center enveloped in a crispy coating of cinnamon sugar and crunchy corn flakes, offering a light yet satisfying dessert experience. Perfect for parties, family gatherings, or simply when you’re craving something sweet, this dessert allows you to customize toppings such as hot fudge and whipped cream to elevate your indulgence. With minimal prep time and no frying required, this recipe is family-friendly fun that everyone can enjoy.
Ingredients
- 4 large scoops of ice cream (any flavor)
- 2 tbsp sugar
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tbsp butter
- 2 cups corn flakes (crushed)
- Whipped cream (for garnish)
- Hot fudge sauce (for garnish)
- Cherries (for garnish)
Instructions
- Shape the Ice Cream: Scoop the ice cream into round balls and freeze on a baking sheet for at least 3 hours.
- Prepare the Coating: Crush corn flakes and mix with cinnamon. In a skillet, melt butter and toast the corn flakes until golden brown.
- Mix Cinnamon Sugar: Combine sugar with remaining cinnamon in a bowl.
- Coat Ice Cream Balls: Roll each frozen ball in cinnamon sugar, then coat with toasted corn flakes, pressing gently to adhere.
- Add Toppings: Drizzle with hot fudge, add whipped cream, and top with a cherry before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg