This creamy butter pecan ice cream is a sweet treat that’s perfect for warm days! With crunchy pecans and a rich buttery flavor, it’s sure to make your taste buds happy.
I love making this ice cream because it’s so simple! Just mix, freeze, and enjoy. It’s even better with a sprinkle of extra nuts on top. Who can resist that? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pecans: The star of the show! I recommend using fresh pecan halves, but if you’re allergic, try walnuts or almonds. Just remember, each nut brings its own flavor.
Unsalted Butter: You need butter for that rich flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, use dairy-free butter or coconut oil. The taste will slightly change, but still be yum!
Heavy Cream & Whole Milk: These give the ice cream its creamy texture. You can substitute half-and-half in a pinch, but the ice cream may not be as rich. For a lighter option, try using whole milk only or a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk. Just be mindful of taste!
Sugar: Granulated sugar keeps it sweet. You could use brown sugar for a deeper flavor or honey if you’re looking for natural options, but adjust the quantity since honey is sweeter.
How Do You Toast the Pecans Perfectly?
Toasting pecans adds flavor and crunch. Follow these steps for the best results:
- Use a skillet over medium heat. This prevents burning and ensures even toasting.
- Add melted butter to the pan, then the pecans. Stir them frequently for about 5 minutes until golden brown.
- Keep an eye on them; they can go from perfect to burnt quickly!
- Remove them from heat immediately to stop cooking and let them cool before adding to the ice cream.
Easy Homemade Butter Pecan Ice Cream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup pecan halves
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Optional: a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful butter pecan ice cream requires about 20 minutes of active prep time, plus chilling for at least 2 hours. After that, it needs about 4 hours to freeze after churning. So, plan for about 6-8 hours total before you can dive in. Perfect for a weekend project!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Toast the Pecans:
Start by melting the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Once it’s melted, toss in the pecan halves. Cook them for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until they turn golden brown and smell amazing. Be sure to keep an eye on them, as nuts can burn quickly! When done, remove from the heat and let them cool.
2. Prepare the Ice Cream Base:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Keep whisking until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture looks smooth and creamy. If you want to add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for some extra warmth, go right ahead!
3. Chill the Mixture:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. It’s best to let it chill for at least 2 hours, but overnight works great if you can wait!
4. Churn the Ice Cream:
Once chilled, pour the mixture into your ice cream maker. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to churn it, which usually takes about 20-25 minutes. The mixture should thicken and start to look like ice cream.
5. Add the Pecans:
When the ice cream is thickening but still not fully frozen, carefully add the toasted pecans. Keep churning for another few minutes to ensure those crunchy bits are evenly mixed in.
6. Freeze the Ice Cream:
Now it’s time to transfer your delicious ice cream to a freezer-safe container. Make sure to cover it well. Pop it in the freezer for about 4 hours or until it is firm and ready to scoop.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s frozen, scoop your homemade butter pecan ice cream into bowls or cones. Sit back, relax, and enjoy every creamy, buttery bite filled with crispy pecans!
This homemade classic is sure to become a favorite! Happy scooping! 🍦
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Type of Nut?
Absolutely! While pecans are traditional, you can substitute them with walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts. Just remember that the flavor will change slightly depending on the nut you choose!
How Can I Make This Ice Cream Healthier?
If you’re looking for a healthier version, consider using reduced-fat milk instead of whole milk and a sugar substitute like Stevia or erythritol. You might also reduce the amount of sugar, but keep in mind this can affect the texture.
Can I Make This Ice Cream Without an Ice Cream Maker?
Yes! If you don’t have an ice cream maker, just pour the mixture into a shallow dish and freeze it. Every 30 minutes, stir the mixture with a fork to break up any ice crystals until it reaches a creamy consistency. This will take about 2-3 hours.
How do I Store Leftover Ice Cream?
Store any leftover ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to a month. To keep it from getting overly hard, press a piece of plastic wrap directly on the ice cream before sealing the container. When ready to enjoy, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes for easier scooping!
