Name: Creamy Butter Pecan Ice Cream Recipe That's Simply Irresistible
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 280 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Heavy Cream (Substitution: Half-and-half can be used in a pinch but will yield a less rich texture.); 1 cup Whole Milk (Full-fat milk is preferred for best results.); 4 large Egg Yolks (Use large eggs for proper emulsification.); 0.5 cups Granulated Sugar (Can be replaced with all granulated sugar if brown sugar is unavailable.); 0.5 cups Brown Sugar (Light or dark brown sugar can be used interchangeably.); 1 tablespoon Vanilla Extract (Pure vanilla is preferred for authenticity.); 1 pinch Salt (Use fine grain salt for even distribution.); 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (Always use unsalted to control overall saltiness.); 1 cup Chopped Pecans (Toast in butter for enhanced aroma and flavor.); 1 teaspoon Cinnamon (Can be omitted if preferred.); 2 tablespoons Bourbon (Can be excluded if not available or desired.)

As I stood in my kitchen, the unmistakable scent of toasting pecans wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to the warm, nostalgic embraces of Southern summers. There’s something magical about homemade Butter Pecan Ice Cream; it effortlessly combines creamy vanilla custard with crunch and warmth, turning ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary treat. With its rich, buttery flavor and freezer-friendly convenience, this recipe is a delight for both casual gatherings and intimate dessert nights. Plus, there’s a quick, no-churn version for those last-minute cravings! Are you ready to scoop up some happiness? Let’s dive into this delicious journey together!

Why is this ice cream so special?

Simplicity at Its Best: This homemade Butter Pecan Ice Cream features easy-to-follow steps that make crafting deliciousness a breeze.

Creamy Texture: With a rich vanilla custard base, every scoop delivers indulgent creaminess that store-bought brands can’t match.

Customizable: Whether you prefer a no-churn version or want to switch up the nuts, this recipe embraces versatility. Substitute pecans with walnuts for a delightful twist!

Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for summer barbecues or cozy evenings, it’s a dessert that warms hearts and evokes nostalgia, making it a favorite with family and friends.

Storage Friendly: Make ahead and store easily, giving you delicious ice cream at your fingertips anytime the craving strikes—just like with my Sugar Cream Pie!

Butter Pecan Ice Cream Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this creamy delight!

For the Ice Cream Base

Heavy Cream – Provides richness and creaminess for the ice cream base. Substitution: Half-and-half can be used in a pinch but will yield a less rich texture.
Whole Milk – Adds smoothness and balances the richness of the heavy cream. Note: Full-fat milk is preferred for best results.
Egg Yolks – Create a custard base, enhancing texture and flavor. Note: Use large eggs for proper emulsification.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the mixture and helps with texture. Substitution: Can be replaced with all granulated sugar if brown sugar is unavailable.
Brown Sugar – Adds depth of flavor with its molasses notes. Note: Light or dark brown sugar can be used interchangeably.
Vanilla Extract – Provides a warm, aromatic essence that enhances the overall flavor profile. Substitution: Pure vanilla is preferred for authenticity.
Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavors overall. Substitution: Use fine grain salt for even distribution.

For the Pecans

Unsalted Butter – Used for toasting pecans, adding richness and a buttery flavor. Note: Always use unsalted to control overall saltiness.
Chopped Pecans – Adds crunch and nutty flavor. Preparation: Toast in butter for enhanced aroma and flavor.
Cinnamon (Optional) – Adds warmth and a hint of spiciness to the mix. Variation: Can be omitted if preferred.
Bourbon (Optional) – Provides a Southern flavor twist. Substitution: Can be excluded if not available or desired.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Butter Pecan Ice Cream

Step 1: Heat the Cream and Milk
In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups of heavy cream and 1 cup of whole milk over medium heat. Stir gently until small bubbles begin to form around the edges, about 5-6 minutes. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t boil, as we want to warm it just enough for the next step.

Step 2: Whisk the Egg Yolks and Sugars
In a separate bowl, vigorously whisk together 4 large egg yolks, ½ cup of granulated sugar, and ½ cup of brown sugar until the mixture becomes pale and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial for creating a velvety texture in your Butter Pecan Ice Cream, so whisk until fluffy.

Step 3: Temper the Egg Mixture
Slowly pour half of the warm cream mixture into the egg yolk blend, whisking continuously to prevent the eggs from scrambling. Once combined, transfer the entire mixture back into the saucepan. Cook over low heat while stirring constantly until the custard thickens and reaches a temperature of 170°F, which should take about 5-7 minutes.

Step 4: Strain and Chill the Custard
Remove the saucepan from heat and strain the custard through a fine mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove any bits of cooked egg. Stir in 1 tablespoon of pure vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, then cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until fully chilled. This cooling step allows the flavors to meld perfectly.

Step 5: Toast the Pecans
While the custard chills, toast 1 cup of chopped pecans in a skillet over medium heat with 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Stir frequently for about 3-4 minutes until they turn golden brown and fragrant. Remove from heat and allow them to cool completely before adding them to your ice cream.

Step 6: Churn the Ice Cream
Once the custard is chilled, pour it into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This process should take approximately 20-25 minutes until the mixture thickens and reaches a soft-serve consistency, creating the delightful Butter Pecan Ice Cream base.

Step 7: Add the Toasted Pecans
During the final minutes of churning, gently fold in the cooled pecans, allowing them to mix evenly throughout the ice cream. Once fully incorporated, transfer the mixture to a freezer-safe container. Smooth the top and cover tightly with plastic wrap before sealing with a lid to prevent ice crystals.

Step 8: Freeze to Firm Up
Place the container in the freezer and let the Butter Pecan Ice Cream set for at least 4 hours, or until it reaches your desired firmness. This final freezing step ensures your ice cream is a scoopable delight, ready to enjoy any time the craving strikes!

What to Serve with Butter Pecan Ice Cream

Every scoop of creamy delight begs for the perfect accompaniment, adding layers of flavor and texture to your dessert experience.

Warm Apple Pie: A classic pairing, the flaky crust and sweet spiced apples wonderfully complement the richness of the ice cream.
Gingersnap Cookies: Their crispiness and spicy bite create a delicious contrast, especially when made into an irresistible ice cream sandwich.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm fudge over your scoop elevates the chocolatey richness, harmonizing perfectly with the buttery pecans.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of airy whipped cream adds a light fluffiness, taking the indulgence to new heights while balancing the creaminess.
Fresh Berries: Bright, tart berries like raspberries or strawberries enhance the flavors with their juicy freshness, creating a delightful explosion of taste.
Caramel Sauce: The rich, sweet notes of caramel beautifully intertwine with the nutty taste of pecans, making for a divine dessert experience.
Espresso or Coffee: The bitter notes from a warm cup provide an ideal contrast to the sweetness of the ice cream, creating a perfect dessert pairing.
Pecan Pie: For an indulgent touch, serve with a slice of pecan pie; the texture and flavor will have everyone swooning.
Cinnamon Sugar Churros: The warmth and crunch of churros dusted with cinnamon sugar offer a deliciously fun element for dipping into the ice cream.

Butter Pecan Ice Cream Variations

Unleash your creativity and customize your Butter Pecan Ice Cream with these delightful variations—each twist ready to elevate that creamy goodness even further!

No-Churn Version: Whip 2 cups of heavy cream to soft peaks, then gently fold in 1 can of sweetened condensed milk and vanilla. Finish with toasted pecans for that signature crunch! This quick method is perfect for last-minute cravings.
Nut Substitution: Try using walnuts or hazelnuts instead of pecans for a different nutty flavor. Each nut brings its own unique richness that will surprise and please your palette!
Dairy-Free Delight: Replace the cream with coconut cream for a vegan-friendly option. Coconut adds a tropical twist sure to impress everyone at your table!
Chocolate Swirl: Incorporate rich chocolate by adding chocolate chips or swirls of fudge during the last few minutes of churning, creating delicious pockets of sweetness in every scoop.
Spice It Up: Toss in a dash of ground cinnamon or nutmeg for added warmth and depth of flavor. This subtle change transforms an already delicious dessert into an unforgettable experience!
Southern Bourbon: Introduce a splash of bourbon into the custard for a true Southern flair. The fine notes of bourbon elevate the ice cream to a rich, adult treat perfect for after-dinner enjoyment.
Caramel Drizzle: Before freezing, mix in swirls of caramel sauce to introduce a luscious sweetness that complements the buttery flavors perfectly. It’s a decadent touch everyone will love!
Fruit Fusion: Fold in some diced fresh peaches or cherries right before freezing for a refreshing fruit twist that adds a burst of flavor to your creamy treat. Imagine indulging in a cone filled with those summer vibes!

With all these variations, you can make your Butter Pecan Ice Cream uniquely yours! And don’t forget, while enjoying your ice cream, consider serving it alongside my delicious Sugar Cream Pie for a balanced dessert platter or delighting in the richness of my Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels at your next gathering! Enjoy the journey of creating memories with each scoop!

How to Store and Freeze Butter Pecan Ice Cream

Airtight Container: Store your Butter Pecan Ice Cream in an airtight container, ensuring the top is covered with plastic wrap pressed directly against the surface to prevent ice crystals.

Fridge: While ice cream is best kept in the freezer, you can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days if you plan to enjoy them quickly.

Freezer: For optimal freshness, your homemade ice cream can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before scooping if it gets too hard!

Reheating Tip: If serving with warm desserts, like a slice of pie, just scoop the ice cream directly from the freezer for a lovely contrast of temperatures.

Make Ahead Options

Making Butter Pecan Ice Cream ahead of time is a fantastic way to save yourself stress on busy days! You can prepare the custard base (steps 1-4) up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. The toasted pecans can be made ahead as well; just store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain their crunch. When you’re ready to enjoy your ice cream, simply churn the chilled custard (step 6), fold in the pecans (step 7), and freeze it for another 4 hours to set. This way, you’ll have delectable homemade Butter Pecan Ice Cream ready to delight your family whenever cravings strike!

Expert Tips for Butter Pecan Ice Cream

Tempering Wisdom: Always slowly pour the warm cream into the egg yolk mixture while whisking to prevent scrambling. This ensures a smooth custard base for your Butter Pecan Ice Cream.
Chill Thoroughly: Allow the custard ample time to chill (at least 4 hours or overnight) for the best flavor development; don’t rush this crucial step.
Perfectly Toasted Pecans: Watch your pecans carefully while toasting. Stir frequently to prevent burning, as you want them golden and aromatic, adding that perfect crunch.
Scooping Ease: If your ice cream is too hard, let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before scooping. This makes serving much easier!
No-Churn Tip: If you’re short on time, whip cream and fold in sweetened condensed milk for a quick no-churn Butter Pecan Ice Cream option that’s still delicious.

Butter Pecan Ice Cream Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting pecans?
Absolutely! When choosing pecans, look for those that are plump and free from dark spots or blemishes. Fresh pecans should have a pleasant nutty aroma. If you’re buying pre-packaged nuts, check the expiration date to ensure they’re still fresh.

How should I store leftover Butter Pecan Ice Cream?
Very! For optimal freshness, transfer your Butter Pecan Ice Cream to an airtight container, pressing plastic wrap directly against the surface to prevent ice crystals from forming. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. If you plan to enjoy it soon, it can be refrigerated for about 3 days.

Can I freeze my Butter Pecan Ice Cream?
Definitely! To freeze your homemade ice cream, after churning it, let it set in a freezer-safe container for at least 4 hours until firm. Make sure to cover it well with plastic wrap before sealing the container lid for the best preservation. For quick enjoyment, remember to set out the container for about 10-15 minutes before scooping.

What can I do if my custard doesn’t thicken?
If you find that your custard isn’t thickening, ensure you’re cooking it over low heat and stirring constantly. Cook until it reaches 170°F, and if it’s still too thin after straining, you can return it to the saucepan over low heat, whisking continuously until it thickens properly. This should help achieve that perfect creamy texture for your Butter Pecan Ice Cream.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re making this ice cream for someone with nut allergies, it’s important to avoid pecans altogether or substitute them with seeds like sunflower seeds. This ice cream is quite flexible; you can also make it dairy-free by replacing the cream and milk with coconut cream for a delicious alternative.

Can pets enjoy this ice cream too?
Very! While the sweet, creamy nature of Butter Pecan Ice Cream may be tempting for our four-legged friends, it’s best to avoid giving them this treat. The sugar and dairy can upset their stomachs. If you’d like to share a frozen treat with your pet, consider making a dog-friendly version using frozen yogurt or mashed bananas!