A rich, velvety homemade ice cream loaded with buttery toasted pecans and deep caramel notes from brown sugar—pure Southern comfort in every scoop!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
✔ Ultra-creamy custard base (thanks to egg yolks + heavy cream)
✔ Deep, toasty pecan flavor (butter-toasted to perfection)
✔ No ice cream maker? See FAQ for no-churn option!
✔ Perfect for summer gatherings or holiday desserts
Ingredients
For the Toasted Pecans
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
For the Ice Cream Base
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup packed brown sugar (divided)
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1 tbsp pure vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Toast the Pecans
- Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add pecans, toast 3–4 mins until fragrant. Set aside to cool.
2️⃣ Make the Custard Base
- In a saucepan, heat cream, milk, and ½ the brown sugar until steaming (do not boil).
- Whisk egg yolks + remaining sugar until pale.
- Temper yolks: Slowly whisk in hot milk mixture.
- Return to pan, cook until 170°F (77°C) (coats spoon).
3️⃣ Chill & Churn
- Strain custard, stir in vanilla + salt.
- Chill 4+ hours (overnight for best texture).
- Churn in ice cream maker, adding pecans last 5 mins.
4️⃣ Freeze & Serve
- Transfer to container, freeze 4+ hours.
- Optional: Drizzle with caramel sauce before serving.
Pro Tips & Tricks
🔥 Flavor Boosters
- Add ½ tsp cinnamon to pecans while toasting
- Swap 1 tbsp bourbon for vanilla for adult version
🔄 No Ice Cream Maker?
- Whip 1 cup heavy cream to stiff peaks.
- Fold into chilled custard + pecans.
- Freeze in loaf pan, stirring every 30 mins for 3 hours.
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought toasted pecans?
✅ Yes, but fresh-toasted tastes better! Skip butter if nuts are already oiled.
2. Why is my ice cream grainy?
⚠️ Custard got too hot or wasn’t strained. Use a thermometer next time.
3. How long does it keep?
⏳ 2 weeks frozen (press parchment on surface to prevent ice crystals).
4. Can I use maple syrup instead of brown sugar?
🍁 Yes, but reduce to ½ cup (maple is sweeter).
5. Is there a dairy-free version?
🥥 Use coconut cream + full-fat coconut milk, and coconut sugar.
Serving Suggestions
🍽 Pair with:
- Warm peach cobbler
- Chocolate pecan pie
- Espresso affogato
Nutritional Info (Per Serving)
⏰ Prep Time: 30 mins | Cook Time: 15 mins | Chill/Freeze Time: 8+ hrs
🔥 Calories: ~290 kcal | Servings: 6
Final Thoughts
This Butter Pecan Ice Cream is decadent, nutty, and irresistibly smooth—a Southern classic that’s worth the wait!
Tried it? Tag us in your ice cream pics! 📸👇
“Life is better with homemade ice cream.” ❄️💛
Enjoy! 🍨✨
