Description
This Fried Ice Cream Dessert Casserole recreates the classic crunchy and creamy treat in an easy-to-make, freezer-friendly casserole form. Layers of toasted cinnamon cornflakes and smooth vanilla ice cream are topped with whipped cream, honey, and cherries for a delicious, nostalgic dessert that requires no frying and can be prepared ahead of time.
Ingredients
Scale
Cornflake Coating
- ¾ cup unsalted butter
- 3 cups Corn Flakes cereal, crushed
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup sugar
Main Layer
- 9 cups vanilla ice cream
Toppings
- 4 cups whipped cream
- ½ cup honey
- 12 maraschino cherries, with stems
Instructions
- Prepare the Cornflake Coating: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the crushed corn flakes and ground cinnamon to the melted butter. Stir frequently for 6 to 8 minutes, until the corn flakes turn golden brown and are toasted evenly. Remove from heat and stir in the sugar until combined, creating a sweet and crunchy coating.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread half of the prepared cornflake mixture evenly across the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form the base layer. Then scoop the vanilla ice cream on top and use a knife or offset spatula to smooth it into an even layer over the cornflakes.
- Top with Cornflakes: Sprinkle the remaining cornflake mixture evenly over the ice cream layer, ensuring full coverage to create the signature crunchy top.
- Freeze the Casserole: Cover the assembled casserole tightly with a lid or plastic wrap and place it in the freezer. Freeze for a minimum of 4 hours or until the ice cream is firm and the layers are set.
- Serve: When ready to enjoy, cut the casserole into slices. Top each serving with whipped cream, a drizzle of honey, and a maraschino cherry to finish your Fried Ice Cream Dessert Casserole with a classic look and generous sweetness.
Notes
- Make sure to toast the corn flakes slowly over medium heat to prevent them from burning and ensure even browning.
- This dessert can be prepared up to a day in advance and kept frozen until serving.
- For a slightly healthier version, consider using light whipped cream and reduced-fat vanilla ice cream.
- If desired, substitute honey with maple syrup or caramel sauce for a different finishing flavor.
- Allow the casserole to sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before slicing for easier portioning.
