Description
This homemade Butter Pecan Ice Cream combines rich browned butter and toasted pecans with a creamy custard base for a classic American frozen dessert that’s indulgently nutty and smooth.
Ingredients
Scale
Butter Pecan Mixture
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
Custard Base
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 5 large egg yolks
Instructions
- Brown the Butter and Toast Pecans: In a small skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat until it turns a golden brown color and emits a nutty aroma. Add the chopped pecans and cook them for 2 to 3 minutes while stirring frequently. Remove from heat and allow to cool.
- Heat the Cream Mixture: In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, and salt. Warm the mixture over medium heat until it is hot but not boiling.
- Temper the Egg Yolks: Whisk the egg yolks in a separate bowl. Gradually pour about 1/2 cup of the warm cream mixture into the yolks, whisking constantly to prevent curdling.
- Cook the Custard: Return the egg yolk mixture to the saucepan with the remaining cream mixture. Cook over medium heat, stirring continuously until the custard thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
- Add Vanilla and Cool: Remove the custard from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to chill thoroughly.
- Churn the Ice Cream: Pour the chilled custard into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. During the last 5 minutes of churning, add the browned butter and toasted pecans.
- Freeze Until Firm: Transfer the churned ice cream to a container and freeze for an additional 2 to 4 hours until firm and scoopable.
Notes
- For an extra depth of flavor, lightly toast the pecans prior to browning the butter.
- Allowing the ice cream to rest in the freezer for several hours helps the flavors meld perfectly.
- Optional: swirl in caramel sauce during the last minutes of churning for a decadent twist.
