Crispy On The Outside, Frosty On The Inside: A Guide to Deep-Fried Ice Cream Sandwiches

Imagine a dessert that's as enticing as it is unique - an ice cream sandwich that’s crisp on the outside and frosty on the inside. A deep-fried ice cream sandwich can be the centerpiece of any special occasion or a tasty guilty pleasure. This guide will walk you through the steps to create these ice cream delights, ensuring you achieve perfection every time.

Introduction to Deep-Frying Ice Cream Sandwiches

Deep-fried ice cream sandwiches are a delectable treat that combines two contrasting textures: the soft and creamy ice cream inside and a hearty, crisp coating on the outside. This tutorial will show you how to prepare the ice cream sandwich and create the perfect fried coating to achieve the best results.

Essential Ingredients and Equipment

Ingredients:

Crumbed Sponge Cake (for coating) Batter (for frying - should be similar to a light, fluffy baking powder batter) Fresh Ice Cream Hot Oil (not fat180) for frying

Equipment:

Thermometer for measuring oil temperature Deep fryer or a heavy pot with a tight-fitting lid Sieve or strainer Paper towels for draining Deep plate or tray for placement after draining Tongs or a fork for removing the ice cream sandwich from the oil

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Deep-Fried Ice Cream Sandwiches

Frozen Ice Cream Slices

The first step is to freeze your ice cream completely. This is crucial as it will help the ice cream hold its shape better when coated and fried. Once frozen, slice the ice cream into even slices, about 1-2 inches thick.

Crumbed Sponge Cake Coating

For the sponge cake coating, chop up some leftover sponge cake into small, crumb-like pieces. Ensure that the pieces are not too large for an even coverage. Use enough to create a thick, uniform coating.

Preparing the Batter

Create a light batter by mixing two cups of self-rising flour with a cup of milk. Add a tablespoon of sugar for a touch of sweetness. The batter should be thick enough to coat but not too stiff. You can also add a bit of vanilla extract or any other extract of your choice for a flavor boost.

Coating the Ice Cream

Begin by dipping each slice of ice cream into the crumbed sponge cake. This gives the ice cream a firm base. Then, gently coat the sponge-caked ice cream with the batter, ensuring it wraps around the ice cream.

Frying the Ice Cream Sandwiches

Fill a deep fryer or pot with enough oil to cover the ice cream sandwiches completely. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C), as this is the ideal temperature for frying. Carefully place the coated ice cream slices in the hot oil, one at a time, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for about 2-3 minutes, or until the coating is golden and the ice cream is floating. Remove with tongs and place on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Tips and Variations

Perfect Drainage

After frying, make sure to drain the ice cream sandwiches thoroughly on a clean towel to remove excess oil. This prevents the sandwiches from being too greasy and helps maintain their crispiness.

Flavor Additions

Experiment with different flavors by adding extracts or ingredients before freezing the ice cream. For instance, you can use chocolate chips, caramel, peanut butter, or even fruit puree. Each addition gives a unique twist to the final product.

Conclusion

Deep-frying ice cream sandwiches transforms a simple ice cream treat into a gourmet experience. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can create perfect, crispy, and frosty ice cream sandwiches. Whether for a family gathering or a special event, these melts-in-your-mouth treats are sure to become a favorite. Happy cooking and enjoy!