If you’ve ever seen fried chicken ice cream online or at a trendy dessert shop, you probably did a double take. Yes, it looks like a crispy piece of fried chicken, but it’s entirely a dessert! This whimsical treat combines creamy vanilla ice cream, white chocolate, and crushed cornflakes to create the perfect illusion of fried chicken.
Inspired by Life Raft Treats’ viral “Not Fried Chicken” dessert, this creative ice cream is taking social media by storm. Its unique look and delightful taste make it a perfect addition to themed parties or just a fun way to wow your guests. Curious about how it’s made? Let’s explore everything that goes into creating this quirky dessert masterpiece.
Table of contents
The Origins of Fried Chicken Ice Cream
Fried chicken ice cream traces its roots to Life Raft Treats, a dessert brand known for turning unconventional ideas into edible art. Their “Not Fried Chicken” ice cream quickly went viral, thanks to its realistic design and delicious flavors. This dessert taps into the growing trend of novelty food creations that surprise and delight both the eyes and taste buds.
Social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram have played a significant role in popularizing chicken ice cream. Food challenges and videos showcasing the dessert’s assembly have inspired home cooks and professionals alike to recreate it. It’s more than just ice cream—it’s a conversation starter and a work of culinary creativity.
What Ingredients Are Used in Fried Chicken Ice Cream?
Creating chicken ice cream requires a mix of basic and specialty ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to achieve the perfect fried chicken look and taste:
Ice Cream Base
- Vanilla ice cream: The star of the show, providing a rich, creamy foundation.
- Heavy cream and sweetened condensed milk: Essential for homemade ice cream if you’re making it from scratch.
- Mini Twix bars or candy substitutes: These act as the “bone” of the chicken drumstick.
Coating
- White chocolate chips: Melted for a smooth, sweet coating that holds everything together.
- Coconut oil: Added to the white chocolate for a glossy finish and easier dipping.
- Crushed cornflakes: The secret to the dessert’s crispy, fried-chicken-like appearance.
Optional Add-Ins
- Hot honey: For a spicy-sweet drizzle if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Candy bar substitutes: Get creative with Snickers or Kit-Kats for different flavors.
Each ingredient serves a purpose: the vanilla ice cream mimics chicken meat, the cornflakes create a crispy coating, and the candy bar provides a realistic bone structure. Together, they form a dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
Essential Tools for Making Fried Chicken Ice Cream
Before you dive into making chicken ice cream, gather these tools and supplies to ensure a smooth process:
Essential Tools
- Ice cream molds: To shape the ice cream into drumsticks.
- Parchment paper: Prevents sticking during the freezing stages.
- Mixing bowls: For preparing the ice cream base and coating ingredients.
- Gloves: Helpful for shaping ice cream without it melting too quickly.
- Microwave or double boiler: For melting white chocolate.
- Kitchen mallet or food processor: To crush cornflakes evenly.
Preparation Techniques for Fried Chicken Ice Cream
- Shaping the ice cream: Use molds or your hands (with gloves) to form the drumstick shape.
- Handling melted chocolate: Stir frequently to keep it smooth and avoid burning.
- Freezing in stages: Ensures that the ice cream maintains its structure while being coated.
Taking time to set up your workspace with these tools and ingredients will save you time and effort later in the process.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Fried Chicken Ice Cream
Ready to turn your kitchen into a dessert workshop? Follow these steps to create your own fried chicken ice cream masterpiece.
Step.1: Prepare the Ice Cream Base
- If you’re making ice cream from scratch, whisk together heavy cream, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a shallow pan and freeze until partially firm (about 2–3 hours).
- If using store-bought ice cream, let it soften slightly before proceeding.
Step.2: Shape the Ice Cream
- Scoop the semi-frozen ice cream and mold it around a mini Twix bar to form the drumstick shape.
- Smooth out any rough edges with your hands (wear gloves to avoid melting).
- Place the shaped ice cream on parchment paper and freeze until solid, about 4 hours or overnight.
Step.3: Prepare the Coating
- Melt white chocolate chips with a tablespoon of coconut oil in the microwave or over a double boiler. Stir until smooth.
- Crush cornflakes into small, uniform pieces using a food processor or by placing them in a bag and crushing them with a rolling pin.
Step.4: Coat the Ice Cream
- Dip each ice cream drumstick into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated. Quickly roll it in crushed cornflakes for the crispy look.
- Repeat the process for each drumstick, working quickly to prevent melting.
Step.5: Final Freezing and Finishing Touches
- Place the coated ice cream back on parchment paper and freeze again for 1–2 hours to set the coating.
- Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the freezer.
Tips for Making Fried Chicken Ice Cream Like a Pro
Want to nail the perfect fried chicken ice cream? These tips will help:
- Work Quickly: Ice cream melts fast! Keep your workspace cold and freeze the ice cream frequently during the process.
- Use Fresh Cornflakes: For maximum crunch and flavor, crush the cornflakes right before coating.
- Experiment with Coatings: Swap cornflakes for Fruity Pebbles or crushed cookies for a colorful twist.
- Hot Knife Technique: Use a warmed knife to smooth or cut ice cream shapes neatly.
With these tips, you’ll avoid common pitfalls and create a flawless dessert that looks straight out of a bakery.
Serving Suggestions
- Drizzle the finished ice cream with hot honey for a spicy-sweet kick.
- Pair it with caramel sauce or chocolate drizzle for an extra layer of indulgence.
- Serve on a platter with real friend chicken for a fun party trick that will have everyone talking.
Challenges in Making Fried Chicken Ice Cream
As delightful as chicken ice cream is, it comes with its fair share of challenges. Don’t let these hurdles deter you! With proper planning and a bit of patience, you’ll be able to create this dessert with ease.
Melting Ice Cream
Ice cream melts quickly, especially during shaping and coating. To tackle this, freeze the shaped drumsticks multiple times during the process to keep them solid.
Pro Tip: Work in small batches to ensure you’re not rushed.
Getting the Coating Right
The cornflake coating is the star of this dessert, but achieving the right texture can be tricky.
- Crush the cornflakes finely but not into dust; they should have a crispy texture.
- Make sure the melted white chocolate isn’t too thick, as it can overwhelm the ice cream.
Shaping the Ice Cream
Forming the drumstick shape around a candy “bone” can be challenging for beginners.
- Use gloves to prevent the ice cream from sticking to your hands.
- Don’t worry about perfection—any irregularities add charm to the final look.
Creative Presentation Ideas
If you loved the idea of this viral dessert, you’ll be thrilled to try other desserts that mimic savory dishes. These creative treats are perfect for themed parties or when you want to surprise your guests.
Ice Cream Tacos
Swap the drumstick for a taco shell! Use a waffle cone shaped like a taco and fill it with ice cream, then top with crushed candy or fruit.
S’mores Ice Cream Pie
Combine the flavors of s’mores into a frozen dessert. Use graham crackers as a crust, layer with chocolate ice cream, and finish with toasted marshmallows.
Burger-Inspired Cake
Make a cake that looks like a burger! Use a round chocolate cake for the “patty” and layers of frosting for the “cheese” and “lettuce.”
Cookie and Cream Drumsticks
Replace the cornflake coating with crushed cookies for a flavor twist that’s just as delicious.
Creative Variations
Let’s take this ice cream to the next level with these inventive variations:
Flavor Experiments
- Peanut Butter Lover’s Delight: Use peanut butter ice cream as the base and coat with crushed pretzels.
- Tropical Bliss: Swap vanilla for coconut ice cream and use toasted coconut flakes as the coating.
Shape Variations
- Wings or Nuggets: Instead of drumsticks, shape the ice cream into smaller nuggets or wing-like pieces for bite-sized treats.
Coating Swaps
Decadent Layers: Mix cocoa powder into the cornflakes for a chocolate-infused coating.
Colorful Crunch: Use crushed rainbow cereal like Fruity Pebbles for a vibrant twist.
Why Fried Chicken Ice Cream Stands Out
What makes this ice cream so popular? It’s the perfect mix of fun design and delicious taste. People love the surprise factor of biting into what looks like savory chicken but tastes like a sweet treat. It’s an unforgettable dessert that’s sure to be the talk of any gathering.
Storage and Leftover Tips
- Store fried chicken ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to one week.
- To maintain the crispy coating, avoid exposing it to moisture or heat before serving.
Author’s Note
Fried chicken ice cream combines two of my favorite things: creativity and dessert! I love how this recipe brings joy and a sense of whimsy to the table. Try it for yourself, and you’ll see how food can be both fun and delicious.
FAQs
Where does fried chicken ice cream come from?
Fried chicken ice cream was popularized by Life Raft Treats, a dessert brand famous for its innovative and quirky creations like the “Not Fried Chicken” dessert.
What is the shell of fried chicken ice cream made of?
The shell is crafted from melted white chocolate mixed with coconut oil and then coated in crushed cornflakes. This combination creates the crispy, fried look.
How long does it take to make fried chicken ice cream?
From start to finish, making chicken ice cream can take about 6–8 hours, including freezing time. The process involves shaping, coating, and multiple freezing stages.
Can I buy fried chicken ice cream in stores?
Yes! Some specialty dessert brands, like Life Raft Treats, offer fried chicken ice cream for purchase.
Related Recipes for Dessert Enthusiasts
- Learn how to create the viral fried chicken ice cream with our detailed recipe.
- Discover where to buy fried chicken ice cream, including options at Walmart.
Fried chicken ice cream is the perfect blend of whimsy and flavor. Its crispy cornflake coating, creamy vanilla ice cream center, and playful design make it a dessert like no other. Whether you’re hosting a party, creating a social media-worthy treat, or simply indulging your love for fun food designs, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. So why not give it a try? Gather your ingredients, set up your kitchen, and get ready to wow your friends and family with a dessert they’ll never forget!Print
What is Fried Chicken Ice Cream Made Of?
- Total Time: 7 hours
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A playful dessert designed to mimic fried chicken, this quirky treat features creamy vanilla ice cream shaped like drumsticks, coated in melted white chocolate, and rolled in crushed cornflakes for a crispy, fried-chicken-like appearance. Perfect for themed parties or surprising guests with a fun, viral-inspired recipe!
Ingredients
Ice Cream Base
- 2 cups vanilla ice cream (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup heavy cream (if making homemade ice cream)
- ½ cup sweetened condensed milk (if making homemade ice cream)
- 6 mini Twix bars or candy substitutes (for the “bone”)
Coating
- 2 cups white chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
- 2 cups crushed cornflakes
Optional Add-Ins
- 2 tablespoons hot honey (for drizzling)
Instructions
Prepare the Ice Cream Base
If making homemade ice cream, whisk heavy cream and sweetened condensed milk with vanilla extract until smooth. Freeze in a shallow pan until partially firm (2–3 hours).
If using store-bought ice cream, let it soften slightly for shaping.
Shape the Ice Cream
Scoop the semi-frozen ice cream and mold it around a mini Twix bar to form a drumstick shape. Smooth the surface with gloves.
Place shaped ice cream on a parchment-lined tray and freeze until solid (4–6 hours or overnight).
Prepare the Coating
Melt white chocolate chips with coconut oil in the microwave or a double boiler. Stir until smooth.
Crush cornflakes into small pieces using a food processor or rolling pin.
Coat the Ice Cream
Dip each frozen ice cream drumstick into the melted white chocolate, ensuring full coverage. Roll immediately in crushed cornflakes to create the crispy coating.
Place coated drumsticks on parchment paper and freeze again for 1–2 hours.
Serve or Store
Serve immediately with optional drizzles of hot honey, caramel, or chocolate sauce.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to one week.
Notes
- Work quickly to avoid melting during shaping and coating. Freeze between steps as needed.
- For a twist, substitute cornflakes with Fruity Pebbles or crushed cookies.
- Dairy-free options can use plant-based ice cream and vegan white chocolate.
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Freezing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 drumstick
- Calories: ~320
- Sugar: ~25g
- Sodium: ~80mg
- Fat: ~18g
- Saturated Fat: ~11g
- Carbohydrates: ~36g
- Fiber: ~1g
- Protein: ~1g
- Cholesterol: ~15mg
Keywords: What is fried chicken ice cream made of, viral fried chicken dessert, fried chicken ice cream recipe, creative ice cream recipes, playful desserts