Butter Pecan Ice Cream
Butter Pecan Ice Cream starts with pecans toasted in butter, which are then folded into a rich, custard-based vanilla ice cream for a nutty, deeply flavored result. The custard requires gentle stovetop cooking before churning, so plan on about 1 hour of active work plus several hours of freezing time. It is a classic American flavor that works well on its own or alongside pie.
Equipment
- Ice Cream Maker
- Medium saucepan
- Mixing Bowls
- Wooden spoon
- Whisk
- Ice cream churn or food processor (for churning)
Ingredients
- 1 cup chopped pecans preferably fresh and organic
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter organic butter recommended
- 1 cup brown sugar lightly packed
- 2 cups heavy cream chilled
- 1 cup whole milk full-fat for creamier texture
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract pure vanilla for best flavor
- ¼ teaspoon salt to enhance sweetness
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat, then add the chopped pecans. Sauté until the pecans are golden and fragrant, around 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, heavy cream, whole milk, and salt until the sugar is dissolved completely.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and then gently fold in the buttered pecans.
- Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn until it reaches a soft serve consistency, about 25-30 minutes. If using a food processor as an alternative, blend until thickened and creamy but anticipate a slightly different texture.
- Transfer the churned ice cream into a lidded container and freeze for at least 3 hours or until firm.
Notes
Tammy’s Tips:
- For a deeper flavor, toast the pecans with a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg before mixing into the ice cream base.
- A splash of bourbon can add a rich, spicy undertone—add sparingly if desired.
- If a sweeter profile is preferred, increase the vanilla extract by an additional half teaspoon.
Nutrition
Calories: 446kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 4gFat: 35gSaturated Fat: 17gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 78mgSodium: 108mgPotassium: 196mgFiber: 1gSugar: 30gVitamin A: 1019IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 110mgIron: 1mg
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