There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about making homemade butter pecan ice cream, don’t you think? Imagine yourself in the kitchen, surrounded by the sweet scent of toasted pecans and melted butter. A warm smile spreads across your face as you prepare this delightful treat.
This homemade butter pecan ice cream recipe is more than just satisfying a craving. It’s about creating memories with those you love. It brings us all together, whether it’s for family gatherings or cozy nights on the porch. With just a handful of easily accessible ingredients, you can whip up a batch that feels like a big hug on a hot summer day.
So, grab your apron and let’s dive into this creamy dream of butter pecan ice cream. It promises to delight your taste buds without the need for an ice cream maker!
Key Takeaways
- Homemade butter pecan ice cream is rich and indulgent.
- Easily accessible ingredients make it novice-friendly.
- Toasting pecans adds an irresistible crunch.
- No ice cream maker needed for this simple recipe.
- Create lasting memories with a beloved classic dessert.
Why You’ll Love This Butter Pecan Ice Cream
Looking for a treat that’s both indulgent and easy to make? This butter pecan ice cream recipe is perfect. It offers rich, creamy textures with little effort. Plus, you don’t need an ice cream maker to make it at home.
Rich, indulgent flavor without an ice cream maker
This recipe is simple yet packed with flavor. It creates a smooth texture that’s as good as store-bought. Your guests will love the rich taste from quality ingredients.
Buttery toasted pecans for irresistible crunch
The recipe’s highlight is the buttery toasted pecans. They add a nutty flavor and a satisfying crunch. This makes every bite a joy.
Easy 5‑ingredient base plus pecans and butter
Making this ice cream is a breeze. With just five main ingredients, you can create a sophisticated dessert. Add the toasted pecans for a treat that’s unforgettable. It’s not only delicious but also brings happiness to your kitchen.
Homemade Butter Pecan Ice Cream Recipe
Making your own butter pecan ice cream is a fun experience. This recipe gives you a creamy, rich taste with buttery toasted pecans. Follow this guide to get all the ingredients and instructions for your homemade pecan ice cream.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 14 ounces (397 g) sweetened condensed milk
- 2 tablespoons light or dark brown sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups (480 ml) heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups (165 g) chopped pecans
- 2 tablespoons (28 g) unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
1. Place a 9” x 5” x 3” metal loaf pan or a similar freezer-safe container in the freezer to chill.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, use an electric mixer to whip the heavy cream until firm peaks form.
4. Gently fold about a cup of the whipped cream into the condensed milk mixture. Then, transfer this combined mixture back into the remaining whipped cream and fold gently to mix.
5. Spread the mixture evenly in the chilled pan, cover tightly, and place it in the freezer for 2 hours.
6. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone liner.
7. Toss the chopped pecans with melted butter until well coated. Spread them in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until toasted. Let them cool completely.
8. After the ice cream has chilled for 2 hours, remove it from the freezer and stir in the cooled pecan pieces. Save some for sprinkling on top, if desired. Cover and return the pan to the freezer for at least 3 more hours before serving.
Expert Tips & Variations
Want to make your homemade butter pecan ice cream even better? Try a few simple tweaks and creative ideas. These expert tips and variations will help you make your dessert truly special and unique.
How to get ultimate crunch
To get that perfect crunch, toast the pecans first. Place them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 8-10 minutes. They should turn golden brown. This step makes them taste better and adds a nice texture to your ice cream.
Swap in dark brown sugar for deeper flavor
Want a richer taste? Use dark brown sugar instead of regular sugar. It adds a hint of molasses that goes well with the buttery flavor of your ice cream.
Add a swirl of caramel or chocolate
Want to treat yourself? Add a swirl of caramel or chocolate to the mix. Just drizzle it in during the last few minutes of churning. It creates a yummy flavor ribbon in your ice cream.
Make it nut‑free: try almonds or skip nuts
Need a nut-free option? Use almond extract for flavor and skip the nuts. Or, try coconut or sunflower seeds for crunch without nuts. This way, everyone can enjoy this tasty treat.
Storage & Serving Suggestions
To keep your homemade butter pecan ice cream fresh, follow some key storage tips. Freezing it right helps avoid ice crystals. You can serve it in many ways, from cones to sundaes, making each experience unique.
Best practices for freezing and texture
First, put your ice cream in an airtight container. Metal containers are best because they keep the ice cream cold. Before sealing, cover the top with parchment paper to block air.
Serving ideas: cones, sundaes, pairings
Enjoy your ice cream in waffle cones or bowls for a simple treat. You can also layer it in a sundae glass with whipped cream and chocolate syrup. Pair it with brownies or apple pie for a special treat. Try it with fruit or other ice creams for a new taste experience.
Conclusion
Making your own butter pecan ice cream is rewarding and fun. It only takes a few ingredients and simple steps to make a creamy treat full of flavor. The buttery toasted pecans add a rich crunch that makes you want more.
Enjoying this homemade ice cream lets you see the joy of making desserts from scratch. You’ll love the unique flavors and textures that make it perfect. Feel free to share your experiences and try new things as you make delicious treats at home.
So, get your ingredients ready and start making! This butter pecan ice cream recipe is more than just a treat. It’s a celebration of home cooking and the joy of every scoop. Happy ice cream making!
Making your own butter pecan ice cream is more than just a kitchen project—it’s a celebration of comfort, flavor, and tradition. If you love easy, crowd-pleasing desserts, you might also enjoy our no-bake strawberry cheesecake or our classic molten chocolate lava cake. Looking for a fruitier twist? Try a vibrant berry trifle to serve alongside your homemade ice cream. Whatever your pairing, these treats will turn any moment into something worth savoring.
Homemade Butter Pecan Ice Cream
Ingredients
- 14 ounces 397 g sweetened condensed milk
- 2 tablespoons light or dark brown sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups 480 ml heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups 165 g chopped pecans
- 2 tablespoons 28 g unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Place a 9” x 5” x 3” metal loaf pan or a similar freezer-safe container in the freezer to chill.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, use an electric mixer to whip the heavy cream until firm peaks form.
- Gently fold about a cup of the whipped cream into the condensed milk mixture. Then, transfer this combined mixture back into the remaining whipped cream and fold gently to mix.
- Spread the mixture evenly in the chilled pan, cover tightly, and place it in the freezer for 2 hours.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone liner.
- Toss the chopped pecans with melted butter until well coated. Spread them in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until toasted. Let them cool completely.
- After the ice cream has chilled for 2 hours, remove it from the freezer and stir in the cooled pecan pieces. Save some for sprinkling on top, if desired. Cover and return the pan to the freezer for at least 3 more hours before serving.
