Fried Cream Bites Recipe

Fried Cream Bites are a crispy, golden delight with a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth center. These decadent morsels are made from a rich vanilla custard that's chilled, cubed, breaded, and fried to perfection. Perfect as a fun dessert or indulgent snack, this recipe is a must-try for lovers of sweet comfort food.

Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe

• Crunchy Outside, Creamy Inside: That unbeatable contrast makes them addictive.
• Simple Pantry Ingredients: Milk, sugar, eggs—nothing fancy, just magic.
• Elegant but Easy: Looks gourmet, but easy enough for beginners.
• Fun for Guests: Serve these warm and watch them disappear in seconds!

What Is Fried Cream?

Fried Cream, known in Italy as Crema Fritta, is a traditional dessert popular in regions like Emilia-Romagna and Marche. It's essentially a firm custard cut into cubes and deep-fried for a crispy coating and soft, luxurious interior. Often flavored with vanilla and lemon zest, this treat balances richness with a delicate citrus note. It’s typically served during carnival time but works beautifully as a year-round dessert.

Pro Tips for the Best Fried Cream

• Let the cream cool completely: For clean cuts and easy handling, refrigerate it at least 2 hours—overnight is even better.
• Double breading is key: Breadcrumb–egg–breadcrumb creates the crispiest shell.
• Use a neutral oil: Sunflower or canola oil won’t overpower the delicate flavor.
• Test oil temperature: Too hot, and they’ll brown too fast; too cool, and they’ll absorb oil.
• Serve hot: They're best fresh out of the fryer when the inside is still silky.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make Fried Cream in Advance?

Yes! Prepare and chill the custard a day ahead. Bread and fry just before serving for best texture.

What Oil Is Best for Frying?

Use neutral oils like sunflower, canola, or vegetable oil with a high smoke point.

How Thick Should the Cream Be Before Cutting?

The cream should be very thick—like firm pudding—able to hold its shape when sliced.

Can I Flavor the Custard Differently?

Absolutely! Try orange zest, cinnamon, almond extract, or even infuse the milk with coffee or chocolate.

Can I Air Fry Instead of Deep Fry?

You can, but results will be drier and less creamy. Traditional frying offers the ideal texture contrast.

Is This the Same as Fried Ice Cream?

No—Fried Cream uses a cooked custard base, not frozen ice cream. They're similar in preparation, but different in texture and temperature.

How to Store Fried Cream

Store leftover fried cream bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them in an oven or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes to revive the crispy exterior. Avoid microwaving, as it softens the crust.

How to Freeze Fried Cream

To freeze before frying:

• Place custard cubes on a parchment-lined tray and freeze until firm.
• Transfer to a freezer bag or container.
• When ready to use, bread and fry straight from frozen—no need to thaw!

For leftovers:

• Breaded and fried pieces can be frozen in a single layer.
• Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes. Consume within 1 month for best quality.

How to Make Fried Cream Bites

In a saucepan, combine the milk, halved vanilla bean, and lemon zest. Bring to a gentle boil, then remove from heat and let sit.

In a mixing bowl, beat egg yolks with sugar until smooth. Add flour and cornstarch, mixing well to eliminate lumps.

Slowly pour the warm milk into the yolk mixture, whisking constantly. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring continuously until thick.

Line a baking dish with plastic wrap. Pour in the custard, smoothing the surface. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.

Once firm, turn the custard onto a cutting board and slice into bite-sized cubes.

Dip each cube into breadcrumbs, then beaten egg, and back into breadcrumbs for a double coat.

Heat oil in a pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the cubes in batches until golden brown and crisp.

Let the bites drain on paper towels. Serve warm and enjoy that contrast of crispy and creamy.