Fried Chicken Ice Cream Recipe

Fried chicken ice cream is the dessert you never knew you needed. Imagine setting down what looks like a plate of crispy fried chicken drumsticks, only for your guests to realize, as they take a bite, that it’s actually a sweet, creamy treat! This creative dessert features vanilla ice cream molded into the shape of a chicken drumstick, coated in melted white chocolate, and rolled in crushed cornflakes to mimic that classic fried chicken crunch. It’s a fun, deceptive dessert inspired by the viral “Not Fried Chicken” ice cream from Life Raft Treats that took TikTok by storm.

This recipe has everything you want in a memorable dessert: a surprising presentation, a delightful texture contrast, and a flavor combination that works surprisingly well. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ, a themed party, or just want to impress your family with a playful after-dinner treat, this fried chicken ice cream is guaranteed to be a hit. Plus, it doesn’t require deep frying or any complicated techniques, making it accessible for home cooks of all levels.

If you enjoy trying unique twists on classic dishes, you’ll love this. And for another creative twist on classic chicken dishes, check out this Chicken Parmesan Alfredo recipe. Now, let’s dive into the details of making this viral, fun, and surprisingly easy dessert at home.

Why This Fried Chicken Ice Cream Recipe is a Must-Try

There are countless reasons why this fried chicken ice cream should be on your dessert radar. Here’s why you’ll love making and serving this whimsical treat:

Surprise Your Guests with Fried Chicken Ice Cream

This dessert plays a delightful trick on your guests. At first glance, it looks like a savory fried chicken drumstick, but once they take a bite, they’re greeted with a creamy vanilla ice cream center. It’s a playful way to keep things fun and unexpected, making it the perfect conversation starter for any gathering.

Enjoy the Perfect Texture Combination

One of the best parts about this recipe is the texture contrast. The crunchy cornflake coating mimics the crispy fried chicken skin, while the inside is soft, smooth, and creamy. It’s the best of both worlds: crispy on the outside and melt-in-your-mouth on the inside.

No Deep Frying Needed

Unlike real fried chicken, this dessert doesn’t require any frying. The coating is achieved with melted white chocolate and crushed cornflakes, making it a lot easier and less messy to prepare. This also makes it a great way to introduce kids to the kitchen without the hazards of hot oil.

Perfect for Any Themed Event

Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout, a carnival-themed party, or a fun family dinner, this dessert fits right in. It’s a conversation starter and a showstopper all in one. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead of time, so you can focus on enjoying the event instead of last-minute prep.

Customize to Your Taste Preferences

You can easily tweak this recipe to suit your preferences. Want to add a spicy kick? Drizzle hot honey over the top. Prefer chocolate? Use milk or dark chocolate for the coating. You can even turn it into a sandwich by serving it between brioche buns or waffle cones.

Hop on the Viral Dessert Trend

This dessert is a hit on social media, especially TikTok. By recreating this viral trend, you’re guaranteed to impress your followers or friends. It’s not just a treat; it’s an experience. Capture the moment and share the fun online!

If you’re in the mood for more fun and festive treats, don’t miss this Christmas Crack recipe with pretzels. Now, let’s take a look at what you’ll need to make this unforgettable dessert.

Ingredients for Fried Chicken Ice Cream

Core Ingredients

• Vanilla Ice Cream: You can use store-bought vanilla ice cream or make your own. The creamy, classic flavor works perfectly with the crunchy coating.
• White Chocolate Chips: These will be melted to create the “glue” for the cornflake coating.
• Refined Coconut Oil: Adding coconut oil to the melted white chocolate helps achieve a smooth, even coating.
• Crushed Cornflakes: The key to the crispy, fried chicken-like texture.
• Twix Bars: These serve as the “bone” inside the drumstick. You can also use waffle cones or pretzel rods for a similar effect.

Optional Toppings

• Hot Honey Drizzle: For a sweet and spicy twist.
• Caramel Sauce: Adds richness and complements the ice cream perfectly.
• Chocolate Sauce: A classic topping that works well with the vanilla flavor.

Ingredient Alternatives

Brioche Buns: If you want to make a fried chicken ice cream sandwich, these add a soft, buttery contrast to the crunchy coating.

Waffle Cones: For an easy handheld version, skip the drumstick shape and use waffle cones instead.

Other Candy Bars: Try using Snickers or KitKat bars for a different twist on the “bone” element.

Equipment Needed for Fried Chicken Ice Cream

To make this fried chicken ice cream, you’ll need the following tools:

• Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer: For making homemade vanilla ice cream, if desired.
• Mixing Bowls: For mixing and melting ingredients.
• Parchment Paper: For lining baking sheets and preventing sticking.
• Serrated Knife: For cutting and shaping the ice cream.
• Baking Dish or Loaf Pan: To freeze the ice cream base.
• Microwave-Safe Bowls: For melting white chocolate.
• Freezer-Safe Container: For storing the finished ice cream drumsticks.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Fried Chicken Ice Cream

Now that you have your ingredients and equipment ready, let’s walk through the process of making fried chicken ice cream. Follow these simple steps to create this fun and deceptive dessert.

1. Preparing the Vanilla Ice Cream Base

If you prefer to make your own vanilla ice cream, here’s a simple no-churn recipe:

1. Whip the Cream: In a large mixing bowl, use a stand mixer or hand mixer to whip 2 cups of heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
2. Add Condensed Milk and Vanilla: Gently fold in 1 can (14 oz) of sweetened condensed milk and 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract until fully combined.
3. Freeze the Ice Cream: Pour the mixture into a loaf pan or baking dish. Cover with plastic wrap and freeze for at least 4 hours, or until firm.

If you’re short on time, store-bought vanilla ice cream works just as well.

2. Shaping Your Chicken Drumstick Ice Cream

Once your ice cream is firm, it’s time to shape it into drumsticks:

1. Scoop and Shape: Using an ice cream scoop, take a generous amount of ice cream and mold it into a drumstick shape with your hands or a spoon.
2. Insert the “Bone”: Stick half a Twix bar or a piece of waffle cone into one end of the drumstick to create the “bone.”
3. Refine the Shape: Use your hands to smooth out the ice cream and make sure it resembles a drumstick.
4. Freeze Again: Place the shaped ice cream drumsticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze for at least 2 hours, or until completely firm.

3. Coating Your Fried Chicken Ice Cream Drumsticks

Now, let’s make the crispy coating that gives this dessert its fried chicken look:

1. Melt the White Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt 2 cups of white chocolate chips with 2 tablespoons of refined coconut oil. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring each time, until smooth and fully melted.
2. Crush the Cornflakes: In a separate bowl, crush 2-3 cups of cornflakes until they’re finely ground but still have some texture. You can use a rolling pin or a food processor.
3. Dip and Coat: Take one frozen drumstick at a time and dip it into the melted white chocolate, ensuring it’s fully covered. Immediately roll it in the crushed cornflakes, pressing gently so the coating sticks.

4. Freezing and Final Touches

1. Final Freeze: Place the coated drumsticks back on the parchment-lined sheet and freeze for at least 1 hour to set the coating completely.
2. Add Toppings: Just before serving, drizzle the drumsticks with hot honey, caramel sauce, or chocolate sauce for extra flavor.

5. Assembling as an Ice Cream Sandwich

For a fun variation, turn your drumsticks into sandwiches:

1. Toast the Buns: Lightly toast brioche buns for a warm, buttery contrast.
2. Assemble the Sandwich: Place a coated ice cream drumstick between the buns. Drizzle with caramel or hot honey and serve immediately.

Tips for the Perfect Fake Fried Chicken Dessert

Creating fried chicken ice cream is all about balancing creativity and precision. Here are some expert tips to make sure your dessert comes out perfectly every time:

• Work in Batches: Shaping and coating the ice cream drumsticks can get messy quickly. To avoid the ice cream melting, work on 2-3 drumsticks at a time and keep the rest in the freezer until you’re ready for them.
• Use Gloves: Handling ice cream with your bare hands can be tricky since the warmth of your skin will cause it to melt faster. Wearing gloves helps maintain hygiene and keeps the ice cream solid for longer.
• Keep the Chocolate Warm: The white chocolate coating should stay smooth and warm while you dip the drumsticks. If it starts to harden, pop it back in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
• Serrated Knife for Shaping: A serrated knife works better than a regular knife for cutting and shaping frozen ice cream. It gives you cleaner cuts and helps you achieve that drumstick shape more easily.
• Crush Cornflakes Evenly: For the best texture, crush the cornflakes to a fine yet slightly chunky consistency. Too coarse, and they won’t stick well; too fine, and you’ll lose the crunch.
• Add a Flavor Twist: For a fun flavor variation, add a sprinkle of smoked paprika or cinnamon to the cornflakes before coating. It adds a subtle, surprising note that balances the sweetness.
• Use Hot Water for Clean Cuts: When cutting the ice cream, dip your knife in hot water and wipe it dry. This makes slicing through the frozen ice cream much smoother.
• Freezing Between Steps: Make sure to freeze the drumsticks thoroughly between each step. This ensures the ice cream stays firm and doesn’t melt while dipping and coating.

Serving Ideas for Fried Chicken-Style Ice Cream

This fried chicken ice cream is perfect for various occasions:

• Themed Party Treats: Serve at birthday parties, cookouts, or BBQs for a playful surprise.
• Dessert Platters: Include it as part of a dessert spread with dipping sauces like caramel, honey, and chocolate.
• Pair with Other Desserts: Hosting a themed party? Pair your fried chicken ice cream with these festive Christmas sugar cookies with sprinkles.

Texture and Flavor Profile

• Crunchy Coating: The crushed cornflake coating adds a crispy texture similar to real fried chicken.
• Creamy Center: Vanilla ice cream provides a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
• Sweet and Spicy: Add hot honey drizzle for a spicy-sweet combo.
• White Chocolate Shell: Adds a layer of sweetness that ties everything together.

Variations and Customizations

• Chocolate Coating: Swap white chocolate for milk or dark chocolate.
• Fried Chicken Ice Cream Sandwich: Use brioche buns or waffle cones for a sandwich version.
• Halloween Treat: Add red food coloring to the coating for a spooky twist.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: ~500-900 per serving
• Carbs: ~60-110g
• Fat: ~30-50g
• Protein: ~6-14g

Related Recipes and Further Inspiration

• Chicken Parmesan Alfredo Recipe
• Christmas Crack Recipe with Pretzels
• Soft Chewy Matcha Crinkle Cookies
• Christmas Sugar Cookies with Sprinkles
• Bean Pizza Loaded with Cheesy Goodness

FAQs

Conclusion

This fried chicken ice cream recipe is a fun, deceptive dessert that’s sure to wow your guests. Whether you serve it at a party, cookout, or just for fun, it’s a unique treat everyone will remember. Try it today and enjoy the sweet, crispy surprise!