Stir-Fried Ice Cream Recipe

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I find stir-fried ice cream to be more than just dessert—it’s an art. The way ingredients swirl together before being transformed into perfect rolls is captivating. And the best part? You’re completely in control of what goes in!

How to Make Stir-Fried Ice Cream

Stir-Fried Ice Cream, also known as Rolled Ice Cream or Thai Rolled Ice Cream, is a popular frozen dessert that originated in Thailand and quickly spread worldwide due to its fun preparation and customizable flavors.

Ingredients

For the Ice Cream Base

• 1 cup heavy cream (or whipping cream)
• ½ cup whole milk
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ½ tsp vanilla extract (or another flavoring of your choice)

Mix-ins and Toppings (Get creative!)

• Crushed cookies (like Oreos, graham crackers)
• Fresh fruits (strawberries, bananas, mangoes)
• Chocolate chips or sprinkles
• Nut butters (peanut butter, Nutella)
• Syrups (caramel, chocolate, or fruit syrups)
• Whipped cream for topping

Equipment

• A freezing pan or a stainless steel tray that’s chilled in the freezer
• Metal spatulas/hardware store paint scrapers to chop and roll the ice cream
• A freezer with enough space to fit the tray flat
• Mixing bowls and a whisk

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ice Cream Base

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, milk, sugar, and vanilla extract until the sugar is dissolved.
2. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for about 20–30 minutes for extra freshness.

2. Freeze the Tray

1. Place your metal tray or freezing pan into the freezer for several hours (or overnight) to ensure it’s cold enough. Aim for a temperature of around -20°C (-4°F).

3. Pour and Mix

1. Once the tray is sufficiently cold, pour about half a cup of the chilled ice cream base onto the freezing surface.
2. While it’s freezing, add your desired mix-ins (cookies, fruits, chocolates) directly on top of the base.

4. Chop and Spread

1. Use metal spatulas to chop and mix the base and ingredients together. Work quickly and evenly, as the base freezes in just a few minutes.
2. Spread the ice cream thinly across the freezing tray into a smooth, even rectangle. The thinner the spread, the easier it is to roll later.

5. Roll the Ice Cream

1. Once the ice cream is completely solid (check for no soft spots), use the edge of a spatula to scrape it into rolls.
2. Start at one end of the spread and gently push the spatula forward to roll the ice cream. Don’t rush—this takes a bit of practice!

6. Serve and Garnish

1. Place the finished rolls upright into a serving cup.
2. Add your favorite toppings (like fruit, syrups, or whipped cream) and enjoy immediately!

Tips for Perfect Stir-Fried Ice Cream

• Keep Your Tray Super Cold: A semi-frozen tray won’t work—it needs to be very cold to set the ice cream properly. If rolls aren’t forming correctly, your tray might not be cold enough.
• Work Quickly: Speed is key, as the ice cream base freezes fast on the tray. Have your mix-ins ready so you can chop and spread the ice cream without delay.
• Experiment with Flavors: Don’t be afraid to create your flavor combinations! Mix chocolate syrup with crushed pretzels for a salty-sweet treat or combine fresh berries with graham crackers for a fruity twist.
• Practice Rolling: Rolling can feel tricky at first, but consistency in spreading the ice cream thinly will make it easier. If the rolls break, you can still pile them into a cup—it will still taste great!
• Chill Your Utensils: Put your spatulas in the freezer before starting. Cold utensils will prevent the ice cream from melting as you work.

What to serve with

Stir-fried ice cream (rolled ice cream) is not only fun to make but also a delight to eat! To take this dessert to the next level, pair it with complementary sides, toppings, and drinks that enhance its flavor and texture.

1. Fresh Fruits

Fruits add natural sweetness, color, and freshness to your ice cream rolls. Opt for fruits that pair well with your chosen ice cream flavor.

• Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries bring a tart and juicy pop of flavor.
• Bananas: Sliced bananas are creamy and sweet, acting as a perfect balance to tangy flavors like strawberry or lemon.
• Mangoes or Pineapple: Tropical fruits enhance cream-based ice creams with their bright, juicy sweetness.
• Kiwi: Adds a tangy and slightly sour twist that complements sugary toppings.

2. Waffles or Crepes

Pairing stir-fried ice cream with waffles or crepes creates an indulgent dessert combo. These warm, fluffy accompaniments contrast beautifully with the cold, creamy ice cream rolls.

• Waffles: Serve alongside or allow guests to stack their ice cream rolls directly on top of the waffles.
• Crepes: Thin and delicate, crepes can be rolled with the ice cream to keep the theme consistent.

Ingredients Substitutes

Stir-fried ice cream (also known as “rolled ice cream”) is a fun and creative dessert that typically relies on a few key ingredients. However, substitutions can be used depending on dietary restrictions, preferences, or availability of ingredients.

1. Heavy Cream Substitutes

Heavy cream provides richness and creaminess, but there are alternatives:

• Half-and-half: For a slightly lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half (though it may be less creamy).
• Coconut cream: A dairy-free alternative, coconut cream mimics the thickness of heavy cream, imparting a slight coconut flavor.
• Cashew milk or almond cream: These nut-based creams can add creaminess with less saturated fat, suitable for vegan or lactose-intolerant individuals.
• Plant-based whipping creams: Many brands offer dairy-free options made from oats, cashews, or soy.

2. Milk Substitutes

Milk is key for smoothing out the texture and reducing the density of heavy cream. Here are substitutes:

• Dairy-free milks: Use almond milk, oat milk, soy milk, or cashew milk for vegan or lactose-free versions. For best results, choose full-fat non-dairy milk as it contributes creaminess.
• Evaporated milk: Only if you’re not avoiding dairy—this works well for creating a rich, velvety texture.
• Powdered milk rehydrated: If fresh milk is unavailable, reconstituted powdered milk works as a backup.

3. Sugar Substitutes

Sugar plays a crucial role in sweetness, but there are alternatives tailored to personal preferences:

• Honey or maple syrup: These natural sweeteners can add sweetness and additional depth of flavor.
• Agave nectar: Excellent for a subtle sweetness, works well as a vegan option.
• Stevia or monk fruit sweetener: Suitable for those watching sugar intake; these zero-calorie sweeteners dissolve well for a smooth ice cream consistency.
• Coconut sugar: Provides a lower glycemic alternative and adds a slight caramel note.

4. Flavoring Substitutes

Flavoring enhances the ice cream experience, and alternatives depend on what you’re looking for:

• Vanilla extract substitute: Use almond or peppermint extract for variety.
• Fruit puree: Fresh fruits (e.g., strawberry, kiwi, mango) blended into purees can replace artificial flavors.
• Cocoa powder or melted chocolate: For a chocolatey version, use dark cocoa powder or melted vegan chocolate.
• Matcha powder: Adds a unique green tea flavor often found in Asian-inspired ice cream recipes.
• Spices: Cinnamon, cardamom, or nutmeg can be used instead of vanilla to create warm, aromatic flavor profiles.

5. Ice Cream Machine Substitute

Traditionally, stir-fried ice cream is made using a flat metal plate chilled to sub-zero temperatures. If you don’t have access to ice cream machines or a cold plate:

• Frozen baking sheet: Place the sheet in the freezer until very cold, then use it as a substitute for a cold plate.
• Pre-frozen bowls or pans: Works as a DIY cold surface when making rolled or stir-fried ice cream at home.

Final Thoughts

Stir-fried ice cream is incredibly versatile and pairs well with many ingredients, sides, and accompaniments.

More Ice Cream Recipes:

• Copycat Coldstone Ice Cream Taco Recipe