Fried chicken ice cream might sound like a strange culinary contradiction, but it’s actually a wildly creative dessert that’s taken the internet by storm. With its crispy golden exterior and uncanny resemblance to real fried chicken, this sweet treat is a fun illusion that surprises everyone at first bite. But here’s the twist—it’s not chicken at all. Instead, it’s a cleverly constructed dessert using ice cream, crushed cornflakes, and white chocolate, made to look like everyone’s favorite Southern comfort food.
In this article, you’ll learn everything about this bizarrely brilliant dish—from how it’s made, where it started, and how to DIY it at home. We’ll also look at where to buy it, what it costs, and how people are reacting across social media. Plus, we’ll debunk common questions like “Does KFC actually sell fried chicken ice cream?” or “Can you really buy it at Walmart?”
Looking for inspiration? Try our fruit ice cream recipe for another twist on dessert!
Let’s dig into the crunchy, creamy world of fried chicken ice cream.
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How to Make Fried Chicken Ice Cream at Home (Yes, Really!)
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Fried chicken ice cream is the craziest dessert trend—learn how to make it, where to buy it, and why it’s going viral.”
Ingredients
- Vanilla ice cream
- White chocolate chips
- Crushed cornflakes
- Pretzel sticks or bones
- Optional: peanut butter, caramel, cocoa powder
Instructions
- Scoop and shape ice cream around sticks
- Freeze until firm
- Melt white chocolate, dip and coat with crushed cornflakes
- Freeze again until solid
- Serve in a fried chicken bucket for effect
Notes
-
Customize with flavors like jam or peanut butter inside for added surprise!
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Easy
- Cuisine: Viral / American
What is Fried Chicken Ice Cream?
The Viral Trend Explained
Fried chicken ice cream is a creative dessert that’s made to resemble a fried drumstick, but with a completely sweet twist. It typically features a scoop of vanilla or caramel-flavored ice cream shaped around a stick—often a pretzel rod or a sanitized chicken bone. The treat is then coated in a layer of white chocolate and rolled in crushed cornflakes to replicate the look and texture of crispy fried chicken batter.
Social media played a huge part in its rise. Viral TikTok clips and Instagram reels captured people biting into what looks like chicken, only to reveal a creamy core inside. The reaction? Total shock and delight.
It’s not just a gimmick—it’s a full-on experience. One bite combines the cool creaminess of traditional ice cream with a crunchy shell that’s surprisingly reminiscent of fried chicken skin.
How It Looks Like Fried Chicken but Isn’t
What tricks the eye is the color, shape, and texture. Fried chicken ice cream is usually hand-shaped into drumsticks, giving it that classic KFC vibe. Crushed cornflakes or cookie crumbs mimic the golden, fried crust perfectly. Then, a white chocolate coating gives it a glossy, just-fried finish.
The “bone” often uses a stick or an actual cleaned chicken bone—yes, really—which further sells the illusion. That contrast between visual expectation and actual taste is what makes it a viral hit.
Social Media Buzz Around Fried Chicken Ice Cream
From food bloggers to pranksters, this dessert has made the rounds. Big accounts on TikTok, Instagram, and even YouTube have all tried it out. Some created DIY versions, while others reviewed products from specialty shops or online sellers.
Reactions usually fall into two camps—“This is genius!” or “Why would anyone do this?” Either way, it gets attention.
Don’t miss our the best carrot bundt cake recipe you’ll ever bake if you’re into unique but classic sweet treats.
History & Origins of Fried Chicken Ice Cream
The Creator and Early Popularity
Fried chicken ice cream didn’t just magically appear overnight—it came from the minds of dessert innovators who love combining food art with viral appeal. While the exact origins are tricky to pin down, many credit the trend’s explosion to Life Raft Treats, a South Carolina-based artisanal ice cream company.
Their signature product, “Not Fried Chicken Ice Cream,” gained popularity after it started appearing in quirky food blogs and viral food challenge videos. People were stunned by how realistic the dessert looked, and soon, it was being shipped nationwide.
As novelty desserts became more popular, independent bakers and influencers started creating their own versions—adding flair with flavors like peanut butter core, strawberry jam, or even bacon bits (yes, bacon).
Looking for more foodie experiments? Don’t miss our banana recipe for weight loss—sweet and smart.
How This Idea Became a Sensation
The secret sauce behind fried chicken ice cream’s viral success? It’s pure shock value mixed with humor and deliciousness. Audiences love food that looks like something it’s not—especially when it turns into a taste surprise.
From TikTok taste tests to YouTube reaction videos, it quickly became a “must-try” for dessert lovers and pranksters alike. Google Trends even saw spikes for terms like chicken drumstick dessert and ice cream that looks like fried chicken after major influencers posted about it.
This trend emerges at the crossroads of innovative food presentation, social media appeal, and creative cooking. It’s not just about taste—it’s an edible illusion.
Ingredients of Fried Chicken Ice Cream
Key Ingredients Used
The real magic behind fried chicken ice cream lies in its simple yet strategic ingredients. Most homemade and commercial versions use the following base items:
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Vanilla ice cream | Main base (can be any flavor) |
| White chocolate | Coating layer |
| Crushed cornflakes | Mimic fried crust |
| Pretzel stick/chicken bone | “Drumstick” core |
| Peanut butter/caramel | Optional flavor layer inside |
You can also substitute the vanilla ice cream with dairy-free versions for a vegan dessert option. Using oat milk or coconut milk ice cream works well without sacrificing flavor.
What Gives It the Fried Chicken Look
Here’s where the illusion happens:
- Cornflakes or cookies – Crushed finely and rolled onto the chocolate coating, these give the golden, crispy “fried” look.
- White chocolate shell – It hardens quickly over cold ice cream and helps everything stick.
- Drumstick shape – Shaped by hand or molded, then inserted with a stick or cleaned bone for realism.
Optional: A light dusting of cocoa powder adds a “fried” coloring effect for that extra detail.
If you’re intrigued by flavor illusions, explore our pink salt trick recipe for another fascinating twist.
Vegan and Dairy-Free Variations
Yes—you can make fried chicken ice cream 100% vegan! Just follow these swaps:
- Ice Cream: Use almond, coconut, or cashew milk-based options
- White Chocolate: Choose dairy-free varieties
- Crushed Coating: Gluten-free cereal or granola
Flavor it with plant-based add-ins like peanut butter, date caramel, or coconut flakes. That way, even plant-based eaters can get in on this delicious deception.
Discover great ideas like our natural Zepbound recipe for clean indulgence.
How to Make Fried Chicken Ice Cream at Home
Step-by-Step Recipe Guide
Creating your own fried chicken ice cream at home is simpler than it seems. With just a few ingredients and a little bit of shaping, you’ll create an edible masterpiece that looks like it came straight from a bucket of fried chicken.
Ingredients List:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Vanilla ice cream (or any flavor) | 1 pint |
| Crushed cornflakes (or cookies) | 1½ cups |
| White chocolate chips or melts | 1½ cups |
| Pretzel sticks / cleaned chicken bones | 4–6 pieces |
| Peanut butter / caramel (optional) | ¼ cup |
| Cocoa powder (for color) | 1 tsp (optional) |
Instructions:
- Scoop & Shape
Scoop out ice cream and shape it into small drumsticks. Insert a pretzel stick or cleaned bone into each. Freeze for 30–60 minutes until firm. - Prepare Coating
Melt white chocolate until smooth. Crush cornflakes finely in a zip-lock bag or food processor. Place in a shallow bowl. - Dip & Roll
Dip frozen ice cream in melted chocolate. Immediately roll in crushed cornflakes to coat completely. - Final Touch
For extra realism, lightly dust with cocoa powder. Freeze again until solid (at least 1 hour before serving). - Serve with a Surprise
For added fun, drizzle with honey, caramel, or chocolate sauce when serving.
Tips for the Best Texture & Flavor
- Use hard-packed ice cream for easier shaping. Soft-serve melts too fast.
- Crush cornflakes just right—not powdery, but not too chunky.
- Double-coat for crunch: Let the first chocolate layer harden, then dip and coat again.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Don’t skip the freezing steps—warm ice cream melts fast under chocolate.
- Avoid soggy coatings by keeping cornflakes dry and crisp.
- Don’t use milk chocolate—it won’t give the “fried” look that white chocolate achieves.
Where to Buy Fried Chicken Ice Cream
Available Online Retailers
If DIY isn’t your style, don’t worry—fried chicken ice cream is sold by a few creative brands online. One brand making waves is Life Raft Treats, known for shipping their inventive “Not Fried Chicken Ice Cream” nationwide. It’s a gourmet product made with top-tier ingredients, delivered in insulated packaging.
Other small-batch dessert shops and novelty food websites carry versions too—just search for “fried chicken ice cream delivery” or “chicken drumstick ice cream.”
Popular Ice Cream Shops Carrying It
Some boutique scoop shops in New York, Los Angeles, and Atlanta have offered their own spins on fried chicken ice cream, especially around April Fool’s or during food trend weeks. It’s best to call ahead or check their seasonal menus.
Local pop-ups and food trucks sometimes carry it as a novelty item. Keep an eye on food festivals or dessert fairs.
Does Walmart or KFC Sell It?
- Walmart: As of now, Walmart does not carry fried chicken ice cream in physical stores or online. While the dessert went viral, it remains a specialty or gourmet product rather than a mass-market item.
- KFC: Nope. KFC has never officially offered fried chicken ice cream on their menu. Any social content you see is usually user-created fan experiments or April Fool’s gags.
Still, KFC has leaned into food trends before, so who knows what the future holds?
Check out our chicken liver nutrition guide if you’re craving something actually savory and packed with real protein.
Fried Chicken Ice Cream Price Guide
Average Cost in Stores & Online
If you’re curious about how much fried chicken ice cream costs, you’re not alone. This eye-catching dessert isn’t just a viral hit—it can come with a price tag that reflects its novelty.
On average, here’s what you can expect:
| Source | Price (Per Piece) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Life Raft Treats (Online) | $6.50 – $7.50 | High-quality gourmet, often sold in packs |
| Local scoop shops | $5 – $8 | Depending on region and customization |
| Pop-up food trucks | $4 – $6 | May vary by location/event |
| DIY (homemade) | ~$1.50 | Based on cost of ingredients per serving |
Most people purchasing from gourmet brands also pay for insulated shipping, which can run between $15–$25 depending on the season and region.
While it’s not a cheap impulse dessert, you’re paying for the novelty, presentation, and quality ingredients.
Don’t miss our boston cream cake recipe if you’re into rich, indulgent desserts at home.
Is It Worth the Hype?
So is it really worth spending $30 or more for a few pieces of ice cream shaped like chicken? For many, the answer is: absolutely yes—at least once. Fried chicken ice cream isn’t just about taste. It’s a conversation starter, a party trick, and a viral moment rolled into one.
That said, making it at home is much more cost-effective, especially if you’re feeding a crowd. DIY lets you customize the flavor, save on shipping, and impress guests with your culinary creativity.
Looking to combine wow-factor with health? Discover great ideas like our salmon cake recipe for a nutritious crowd-pleaser.
DIY Cost vs Store-Bought
Here’s a quick cost comparison:
| Type | Approx. Cost | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Store-bought | $7 per piece + shipping | Gourmet finish, less effort | Expensive, limited availability |
| Homemade | $1.50 per piece | Customizable, budget-friendly | Time-consuming, learning curve |
If you’re a baker or just love playing with presentation, the DIY route is a no-brainer.
Fried Chicken Ice Cream vs Real Fried Chicken
Texture, Taste & Visual Comparisons
At first glance, fried chicken ice cream is practically indistinguishable from a drumstick—especially when it’s served in a fried chicken bucket. But the moment you bite in, the differences become clear.
| Element | Fried Chicken Ice Cream | Real Fried Chicken |
|---|---|---|
| Texture | Cold, creamy inside with crispy coating | Hot, juicy meat with crispy skin |
| Taste | Sweet, vanilla or caramel flavor | Savory, salty, seasoned chicken |
| Visuals | Golden coating, bone/stick for realism | Natural chicken skin and bones |
| Mouthfeel | Crunchy-to-creamy transition | Crunchy-to-meaty transition |
The contrast between what your eyes see and your mouth tastes is what makes this dessert so fun.
Why People Get Confused
What makes this dessert so convincing is the attention to detail. The coating mimics the irregular shape and crumb of real fried chicken skin. When frozen well and served cold, even the weight feels similar to a real drumstick.
At parties, people often hesitate before taking a bite, thinking it’s leftover fried chicken from dinner. That moment of realization creates laughs and makes it an unforgettable dessert experience.
Check out our fried chicken liver recipes if you want a real southern-style chicken dish to pair alongside the illusion!
A Fun Twist for Fried Chicken Lovers
If you or your guests are die-hard fried chicken fans, this dessert makes a clever, humorous twist. It’s perfect for:
- April Fool’s pranks
- Birthday surprises
- Foodie party challenges
- Engagements or weddings with food-themed cakes
And since it’s customizable, you can flavor the inside with strawberry jam (like a spicy sauce), peanut butter (like savory gravy), or even chocolate (because why not?).
Serving Ideas & Presentation Tips
How to Serve It at Parties
Want to truly impress your guests? Serve fried chicken ice cream in a takeout chicken bucket lined with parchment paper. Add a few real drumsticks to the mix if you’re daring, and let people guess which is which.
Other fun serving options:
- In mini fry baskets with dipping sauces (chocolate, caramel, berry jam)
- On a wooden cutting board with fruit “coleslaw”
- As part of a dessert buffet with illusion-based foods
Looking for inspiration? Try our pink salt weight loss recipe to add a unique mineral pairing to your dessert spread.
Themed Events & Birthday Celebrations
This dessert fits perfectly with:
- Backyard BBQs
- Fried Chicken Fridays
- Foodie-themed birthdays
- TikTok challenge nights
You can even get creative with party games like “Guess the Flavor” or “Pick the Real One.”
Pairing Ideas with Other Desserts
While it’s a showstopper on its own, fried chicken ice cream pairs well with:
- Waffles and maple syrup for a dessert spin on chicken & waffles
- Donuts or churros for extra crunch
- Mini pies or berry crumbles for fruity balance
FAQs
Does Walmart have not fried chicken ice cream?
Currently, Walmart does not carry fried chicken ice cream, either online or in-store. While the dessert has gone viral, it remains a specialty product available mostly through boutique dessert shops or online retailers like Life Raft Treats.
What is fried chicken ice cream made of?
Fried chicken ice cream is made with vanilla ice cream, a white chocolate coating, and crushed cornflakes that mimic the look of a crispy fried chicken drumstick. Some variations include peanut butter, caramel, or jam in the center and a pretzel stick or cleaned bone for the “drumstick” effect.
Does KFC sell fried chicken ice cream?
No, KFC does not sell fried chicken ice cream. However, fan-made versions and prank content have led some people to believe otherwise. It’s purely a trend driven by creative bakers and dessert shops.
How much is one fried chicken ice cream?
One piece of fried chicken ice cream from specialty brands like Life Raft Treats usually costs $6 to $8, with additional charges for cold shipping. Homemade versions cost around $1.50 per piece based on the ingredients.
Conclusion
Fried chicken ice cream proves that food is more than flavor—it’s storytelling, illusion, and fun rolled into one unforgettable bite. Whether you try it at home or order from a boutique shop, this viral dessert is sure to impress your guests, blow up your social feed, and satisfy your sweet tooth.
With a crunchy golden crust and a creamy sweet center, it’s not just dessert—it’s a conversation starter. So whether you’re pranking a friend or planning your next Instagram-worthy party, fried chicken ice cream might just be your new go-to dessert.
Don’t miss our guide to fruit ice cream if you’re looking for a fresh twist next.
