Go Back
+ servings
Butter Pecan Ice Cream

Creamy Butter Pecan Ice Cream: A Southern Classic at Home

This Butter Pecan Ice Cream is a nostalgic Southern treat that offers a creamy indulgence made with wholesome ingredients.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Chilling Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 40 minutes
Servings: 8 scoops
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: Southern
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 2 cups Heavy Cream Substitution: Use half-and-half, though the ice cream will be less rich.
  • 1 cup Whole Milk Substitution: Full-fat preferred but can use lower fat if needed.
  • 6 large Egg Yolks No substitutions for traditional version; can use sweetened condensed milk for a no-churn version.
  • 3/4 cup Granulated Sugar Can fully substitute with brown sugar for deeper flavor.
  • 1/4 cup Brown Sugar Substitution: Use all granulated sugar plus a splash of maple syrup for caramel flavor.
  • 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract Substitution: Use imitation vanilla in a pinch, though quality may be affected.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Salt No common substitutions; essential for taste.
For the Pecans
  • 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Substitution: Can use salted butter but adjust the added salt quantity.
  • 1 cup Chopped Pecans Substitution: Any nuts like walnuts or almonds can be used, but flavor will differ.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Cinnamon Omit if not preferred.
  • 2 tablespoons Bourbon Omit if you desire a non-alcoholic version.

Equipment

  • Saucepan
  • Mixing Bowl
  • ice cream maker
  • measuring cups
  • measuring spoons
  • Fine-Mesh Strainer

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream and whole milk over medium heat. Stir gently and heat until tiny bubbles form around the edges, about 5 to 6 minutes. Remove from heat.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until pale and creamy, about a few minutes.
  3. Slowly pour half of the warm cream mixture into the egg yolk mixture while whisking constantly to temper the eggs. Return the mixture to the saucepan for further cooking.
  4. On low heat, stir the combined mixtures continuously until the custard thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5 to 10 minutes.
  5. Strain the custard through a fine mesh strainer into a clean bowl. Add vanilla extract and salt, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
  6. Melt unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped pecans and toast for about 3 to 4 minutes until golden brown. Let cool.
  7. Pour the chilled custard into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer's instructions, usually for around 20 to 25 minutes. Add toasted pecans in the last few minutes.
  8. Transfer the ice cream into a freezer-safe container, spread evenly, and cover tightly. Freeze for at least 4 hours until firm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1scoopCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 4gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 200mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 25gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 100mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Store your Butter Pecan Ice Cream in an airtight container for best results. Let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before scooping for ease.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!