Indulge in the rich, creamy goodness of homemade butter pecan ice cream with this no-churn recipe. Whether you’re craving a treat for a hot summer day or looking to impress your guests at your next gathering, this ice cream is a delightful choice. The buttery, roasted pecans mixed into the velvety smooth ice cream base create a perfectly balanced dessert that is as easy to make as it is delicious. No need for an ice cream maker; this simple recipe comes together in minutes and will have everyone coming back for more.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Homemade Butter Pecan Ice Cream
Homemade butter pecan ice cream is perfect for those who love the rich, nutty flavor of pecans paired with a creamy ice cream base. The best part? You don’t need an ice cream machine to make this treat. It’s a no-churn recipe, making it incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering or just a sweet snack, this ice cream will quickly become a favorite. It’s rich, indulgent, and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delectable homemade butter pecan ice cream:
• Heavy cream: Forms the creamy base of the ice cream.
• Sweetened condensed milk: Adds sweetness and helps achieve that smooth texture.
• Pecans: Roasted and buttered for a rich, nutty flavor.
• Brown sugar: Provides a deeper sweetness and caramel-like flavor.
• Butter: Adds richness and enhances the flavor of the pecans.
• Vanilla extract: A hint of vanilla rounds out the flavor of the ice cream.
Alternative Ingredient Suggestions
If you have dietary restrictions or just want to change things up a bit, here are some suggestions for substitutions:
• Almonds or walnuts: If you don’t have pecans, almonds or walnuts make excellent substitutes and offer a slightly different flavor.
• Coconut milk: For a dairy-free version, try using coconut milk in place of the heavy cream and sweetened condensed milk.
• Maple syrup: Swap the brown sugar for maple syrup to add a unique flavor and natural sweetness to your ice cream.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making this homemade butter pecan ice cream is simple and only takes a few steps. Follow these easy instructions:
- Begin by toasting the pecans. In a medium pan, melt the butter over medium heat and add the pecans. Stir occasionally and cook until the pecans are golden and fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream and sweetened condensed milk. Whip the cream until soft peaks form, then gently fold the sweetened condensed milk into the whipped cream.
- Add the cooled, toasted pecans to the mixture and stir until evenly distributed.
- Pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Freeze for at least 6 hours, or until the ice cream is firm and set.

Tips & Tricks
Here are some tips to ensure your homemade butter pecan ice cream turns out perfect every time:
• Make sure the pecans are completely cooled before adding them to the ice cream base to avoid melting the mixture.
• For an extra touch, sprinkle a little sea salt over the top before freezing to enhance the flavor of the ice cream.
• If you want a smoother texture, you can blend the ice cream mixture before freezing to eliminate any large chunks of pecans.
Pairing Ideas and Variations
This homemade butter pecan ice cream pairs wonderfully with a variety of desserts and toppings. Here are a few ideas to elevate your treat:
• Serve with a warm brownie or a slice of pie for a delicious dessert combination.
• Drizzle with chocolate syrup or caramel sauce for an extra indulgent treat.
• For a twist, add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the base for a spiced version of this ice cream.
You can also make it in advance and store it in the freezer for up to two weeks. If you want to serve it for a special occasion, make sure to let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping to ensure it’s easy to serve.
Seasonal and Health Benefits of Butter Pecan Ice Cream
Homemade butter pecan ice cream is an indulgent treat, perfect for seasonal celebrations or simply as a sweet end to a family dinner. While it’s a rich dessert, the pecans provide a good source of healthy fats and antioxidants, making it a slightly healthier option than other sugary desserts. Enjoying this ice cream in moderation is a great way to treat yourself without feeling guilty.
Conclusion
Homemade butter pecan ice cream is a decadent, no-churn treat that’s sure to impress. With its rich flavor, creamy texture, and crunchy pecan pieces, it’s a perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering, a special celebration, or just a sweet snack on a hot day, this easy-to-make ice cream will be a crowd-pleaser. The best part? You don’t need an ice cream maker, making it a hassle-free option for homemade indulgence. Treat yourself to the rich, buttery taste of this ice cream, and enjoy every creamy, nutty bite.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make homemade butter pecan ice cream without an ice cream maker?
Yes! This homemade butter pecan ice cream recipe is a no-churn variety, which means you don’t need an ice cream maker. It’s quick and easy to prepare, and it will still have that creamy, delicious texture that everyone loves.
How long does it take to freeze homemade butter pecan ice cream?
Homemade butter pecan ice cream typically takes about 6 hours to freeze completely. However, for the best texture and flavor, it’s recommended to freeze it overnight before serving.
Can I use a different nut instead of pecans in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with other nuts such as walnuts or almonds. The recipe will still be delicious, though the flavor profile will change slightly depending on the nut you choose.
Can I make homemade butter pecan ice cream dairy-free?
Yes, you can make a dairy-free version of this recipe by using coconut milk or almond milk as a substitute for the heavy cream and sweetened condensed milk. Be sure to use a dairy-free butter for the pecans as well.
More Relevant Recipes
Print
Homemade Butter Pecan Ice Cream
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Homemade butter pecan ice cream is a rich and creamy treat made with toasted pecans, a sweet base, and no ice cream maker required. This easy no-churn recipe delivers a perfect combination of buttery, crunchy pecans and smooth, velvety ice cream that will be a hit with family and friends.
Ingredients
- Heavy cream: Provides the creamy base.
- Sweetened condensed milk: Adds sweetness and smooth texture.
- Pecans: Roasted and buttered for richness and crunch.
- Brown sugar: Adds caramel-like sweetness.
- Butter: Enhances the flavor of the pecans.
- Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavor of the ice cream.
Instructions
- Toast the pecans by melting butter in a pan over medium heat and adding the pecans. Cook until golden and fragrant, then remove from heat and cool.
- Whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form, then gently fold in the sweetened condensed milk.
- Add the cooled pecans and stir to combine evenly.
- Transfer the mixture to a freezer-safe container and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Freeze for at least 6 hours, or until firm and set.
Notes
- Ensure the pecans are fully cooled before adding them to the mixture to prevent melting the ice cream base.
- For an extra touch, sprinkle some sea salt over the top before freezing for enhanced flavor.
- Allow the ice cream to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving for easier scooping.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-churn
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 55mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg