Introduction
Homemade Butter Pecan Ice Cream is a rich, creamy dessert packed with buttery toasted pecans and smooth vanilla custard. It’s a classic favorite known for its nutty flavor, silky texture, and comforting homemade taste.
Origin & Background
Butter pecan ice cream became popular in the United States, especially in the South, where pecans are widely grown and frequently used in traditional desserts. Its combination of toasted nuts and buttery sweetness made it a timeless ice cream parlor staple.
Ingredients (Makes about 1 quart)
Base
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- 4 egg yolks
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Pecans
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
Optional Additions
- Caramel swirl
- Maple extract instead of vanilla
- Toasted coconut flakes
- Chocolate chips
Tips for Success
✔ Toasting pecans enhances flavor and crunch
✔ Chill custard fully before churning
✔ Stir constantly when cooking custard to avoid scrambling eggs
✔ Use high-fat dairy for creamier texture
Instructions
1. Toast Pecans
Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add pecans and brown sugar. Cook 3–5 minutes until fragrant and coated. Set aside to cool.
2. Heat Cream Mixture
In a saucepan, combine cream, milk, and half the brown sugar. Heat until warm but not boiling.
3. Whisk Yolks
In a bowl, whisk egg yolks with remaining sugar until pale.
4. Temper Eggs
Slowly pour warm cream mixture into yolks while whisking constantly.
5. Cook Custard
Return mixture to saucepan and cook over medium-low heat, stirring until thick enough to coat a spoon.
6. Chill
Remove from heat. Stir in vanilla and salt. Chill mixture in refrigerator at least 4 hours or overnight.
7. Churn
Pour chilled base into ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer instructions.
8. Add Pecans
Fold in cooled buttered pecans during last minutes of churning.
9. Freeze
Transfer to container and freeze 2–4 hours until firm.
Description
This ice cream is luxuriously creamy with rich caramel notes from brown sugar and buttery toasted pecans in every bite. It’s smooth, nutty, and perfectly balanced between sweet and savory.
Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)
- Calories: 340
- Fat: 26 g
- Carbohydrates: 24 g
- Protein: 5 g
Conclusion
Homemade Butter Pecan Ice Cream is a nostalgic dessert that brings together simple ingredients and classic flavors. Making it from scratch gives you unbeatable freshness and a creamy texture store-bought versions rarely match.
Serving Suggestions
- With warm pie or cobbler
- Topped with caramel sauce
- Alongside brownies or cookies
- In waffle cones
Healthful Indulgence Tip
To lighten it slightly, substitute half-and-half for part of the cream and reduce sugar a bit—the pecans still provide rich flavor and satisfying texture.