Butter pecan ice cream is a rich and creamy treat that combines the flavor of toasted pecans with a smooth, buttery ice cream base. This homemade recipe is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth!
Ingredients (for about 4 servings)
- 1 cup pecans (chopped)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 5 large egg yolks
Instructions
1️⃣ Toast the pecans:
- In a small skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the pecans and cook for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are lightly toasted and fragrant. Set them aside to cool.
2️⃣ Prepare the ice cream base:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and salt.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it is warm but not boiling.
3️⃣ Temper the egg yolks:
- In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks.
- Gradually pour a small amount of the warm cream mixture into the yolks while whisking constantly to prevent curdling.
- Slowly add the yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the rest of the cream mixture, stirring continuously.
4️⃣ Cook the custard:
- Cook the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly, for about 5-7 minutes, or until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Do not let it boil.
- Remove from heat and allow it to cool for a few minutes.
5️⃣ Chill the mixture:
- Pour the custard into a bowl and cover it with plastic wrap, making sure the wrap touches the surface of the custard to prevent a skin from forming.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight, until it is completely cold.
6️⃣ Churn the ice cream:
- Once the custard is chilled, pour it into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
7️⃣ Add toasted pecans:
- During the last few minutes of churning, add the toasted pecans to the ice cream mixture.
8️⃣ Freeze:
- Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 4 hours, or until it is firm and scoopable.
Enjoy!
Your homemade butter pecan ice cream is now ready to serve! This creamy, nutty dessert is perfect for warm weather or as a special treat anytime.
