Fried Ice Cream (Gelato Fritto)
Category: Desserts | Serves: 4
Fried ice cream is a unique and indulgent treat that combines the cool, creamy texture of gelato with a crispy, golden exterior. This delightful dessert is a must-try for anyone looking for a fun twist on the traditional ice cream sundae. By quickly frying the frozen gelato in a crispy batter, you achieve the perfect contrast of hot and cold, with a melt-in-your-mouth experience. Here’s how to make this delightful dessert at home!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cream Gelato (vanilla flavor) | 200g |
| Sponge Cake (Pan di Spagna) | 250g |
| All-Purpose Flour (00) | 200g |
| Water | 170g |
| Baking Powder | 24g |
| Peanut Oil (for frying) | 1 tablespoon |
| Peanut Oil (for frying, as needed) | q.b. |
Instructions
Preparation
-
Prepare the Gelato Balls:
Start by slicing the sponge cake into pieces about 1/2 cm thick. Place one slice of cake on top of each ball of cream gelato, pressing them together gently to create a sandwich of cake and ice cream. Then, wrap each gelato ball in plastic wrap and arrange them on a tray. Place them in the freezer and allow them to solidify for at least 30 minutes. -
Make the Batter:
While the gelato balls are chilling, prepare the batter. In a bowl, sift the flour to remove any lumps. Add the baking powder and a tablespoon of peanut oil. Gradually add the water and use a whisk to combine everything until you have a smooth, creamy batter free of lumps. This mixture should have a consistency that will coat the gelato balls without being too thick or too runny. -
Heat the Oil:
Once the gelato balls are firm, heat the peanut oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. The oil should reach a temperature of 170°C to 180°C (340°F to 355°F). Use a thermometer to check the temperature, as the oil needs to be hot enough to fry the gelato quickly without melting it. -
Fry the Gelato:
Take each chilled gelato ball and dip it into the prepared batter, turning it with a spoon to ensure it is evenly coated. Carefully lower the battered gelato ball into the hot oil. Fry the gelato for 2-3 minutes, or until it becomes golden and crispy on the outside. The inside should remain frozen and creamy. -
Drain and Serve:
Once the gelato balls are golden brown, remove them from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Continue frying the remaining gelato balls. -
Serve Immediately:
Fried ice cream is best served immediately, while the exterior is still crispy and the inside is cold and creamy. You can serve the fried gelato as is, or drizzle with chocolate sauce, honey, or sprinkle with cinnamon for added flavor.
This recipe for fried ice cream offers a perfect blend of textures: the warm, crispy batter contrasts beautifully with the cold, creamy gelato center. It’s a fun and surprising dessert that’s sure to impress your guests or make a special treat for yourself. Enjoy your homemade fried ice cream right out of the frying pan for the best experience!
