Homemade Butter Pecan Ice Cream is a delightful treat that combines the rich and creamy flavors of sweet dairy with nutty, toasted pecans. This recipe gives you the satisfaction of making ice cream right at home, allowing you to savor each creamy scoop full of flavor. The combination of butter and pecans elevates this ice cream, making it a perfect dessert for warm summer days or cozy winter evenings.
Why Make This Homemade Butter Pecan Ice Cream
Butter Pecan Ice Cream is a classic flavor that many people adore. Making it at home means you can control the ingredients, resulting in a fresher, tastier product free from artificial flavors and preservatives. The crunchy, toasted pecans mingling with the smooth ice cream create a delightful contrast in texture. Plus, it’s an impressive treat to serve at gatherings or to enjoy quietly at home, providing comfort and nostalgia in every bite.
How to Make Homemade Butter Pecan Ice Cream
Creating your own ice cream might sound daunting, but it’s quite simple! With just a few ingredients and an ice cream maker, you can whip up this mouthwatering dessert. Toasting the pecans brings out their rich flavor, and combining them with the creamy base makes something truly special. Follow the easy steps below, and you’ll have a batch of this delicious homemade treat ready to enjoy.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
Directions:
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and add the chopped pecans. Toast the pecans until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Set aside to cool.
- In a mixing bowl, combine heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Whisk until the sugar is dissolved.
- Stir in the cooled pecans and sweetened condensed milk.
- Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.
- Transfer the ice cream to a container and freeze for at least 4 hours or until firm.
- Serve and enjoy your homemade butter pecan ice cream!
Nutritional Information
Per serving (1/2 cup):
- Calories: 330
- Total Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 130mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 5g
How to Serve Homemade Butter Pecan Ice Cream
Enjoy your Homemade Butter Pecan Ice Cream in various ways! Serve it in a bowl with a drizzle of chocolate syrup for an elevated treat or scoop it onto a warm brownie for a delightful dessert. Adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top can enhance the flavors even more. For special occasions, consider serving it in a waffle cone or garnished with whipped cream and additional toasted pecans.
How to Store Homemade Butter Pecan Ice Cream
To store your homemade ice cream, keep it in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn. It should last about 2-3 weeks in the freezer. If you find it too hard to scoop after being frozen, let it sit at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes before serving.
Expert Tips for Perfect Homemade Butter Pecan Ice Cream
- Make sure to cool the toasted pecans completely before adding them to the mixture to prevent them from melting the ice cream base.
- If you don’t have an ice cream maker, you can still make this recipe by pouring the mixture into a shallow dish and placing it in the freezer. Stir every 30 minutes for about 3 hours until it reaches the desired consistency.
- Experiment with adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth and flavor.
Delicious Variations
- Chocolate Chip Butter Pecan: Add mini chocolate chips to your ice cream mixture before churning for a sweet twist.
- Maple Pecan Ice Cream: Substitute maple syrup for some of the granulated sugar for a unique, rich flavor.
- Vegan Option: Replace dairy with coconut milk and use agave syrup instead of sugar for a vegan-friendly version!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different nuts?
Yes! Feel free to swap out pecans for walnuts or almonds for a different flavor profile.What if I don’t have an ice cream maker?
No worries! Just freeze the mixture in a shallow dish and stir every 30 minutes until it’s creamy and firm.Can I make this recipe without sweetened condensed milk?
Absolutely! You can omit it, but your ice cream may be less creamy. Consider adding an extra 1/2 cup of heavy cream for creaminess.
Conclusion
Homemade Butter Pecan Ice Cream is a scrumptious and satisfying way to enjoy a classic dessert favorite. With simple ingredients and easy directions, this recipe invites you into the world of delightful homemade treats. The creamy texture mixed with the crunch of toasted pecans makes every scoop irresistible. So, why not give it a try? I encourage you to whip up this delicious ice cream—and please share your experience! I’d love to hear how your homemade treat turned out. Enjoy!
Butter Pecan Ice Cream
Ingredients
Method
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and add the chopped pecans. Toast the pecans until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Set aside to cool.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Whisk until the sugar is dissolved.
- Stir in the cooled pecans and sweetened condensed milk.
- Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer's instructions until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.
- Transfer the ice cream to a container and freeze for at least 4 hours or until firm.
- Serve and enjoy your homemade butter pecan ice cream!