Vanilla Pecan Ice Cream

Vanilla Pecan Ice Cream Recipe from USA

Region / culture: USA | Servings: 8

Introduction

Vanilla Pecan Ice Cream is a delicious and creamy dessert that combines the rich flavors of vanilla and pecans. This homemade ice cream is the perfect treat for a hot summer day or a special occasion.

History

The combination of vanilla and pecans in ice cream is a classic flavor that has been enjoyed for generations. Pecans are a popular nut in Southern cuisine, and their sweet and nutty flavor pairs perfectly with the creamy vanilla base of the ice cream.

Ingredients

4 tbsp unsalted butter
0.5 cup finely chopped pecans
2 large eggs at room temperature
0.75 cup sugar
0.13 tsp salt
2 cups half and half
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup cold heavy cream
1 cup coarsely chopped pecans
pecan topping

Pecan topping

2 tbsp butter
1 cup pecans

How to prepare

Melt 2 tbsp of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
When the foam subsides, add finely chopped pecans and reduce the heat to low.
Sauté the pecans, stirring frequently, until they are coated with butter and aromatic, about 5 minutes.
Remove from heat and let them cool to room temperature.
Beat the eggs in a large bowl until blended, then beat in the sugar and salt until the eggs are light in color and the mixture is creamy. Stir in the half and half and vanilla until blended.
Cook over low heat for about 10 minutes.
Cool to room temperature and then chill.
Beat the heavy cream in a chilled bowl with chilled beaters until soft peaks form, then fold it into the egg mixture until thoroughly blended.
Process in an ice cream maker according to the manufacturer's directions, then serve with the pecan topping.

Pecan topping

Melt the butter, then sauté the pecans until coated with butter.
Remove from heat and allow them to cool to room temperature.

Variations

Add a splash of bourbon to the ice cream mixture for a boozy twist.
Swirl in some caramel sauce or chocolate chunks for added flavor.
Use different nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, in place of the pecans.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cool the pecans completely before adding them to the ice cream mixture to prevent them from melting and becoming soggy.

- For a richer flavor, you can toast the pecans before adding them to the ice cream.

- Make sure to chill the ice cream mixture thoroughly before churning it in the ice cream maker to ensure a smooth and creamy texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Vanilla Pecan Ice Cream in a bowl or cone, topped with extra pecans or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making creamy ice cream is to chill the mixture thoroughly before churning it in the ice cream maker. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for your specific ice cream maker.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have half and half, you can use a combination of milk and heavy cream in equal parts. You can also use almond or coconut milk for a dairy-free option.

Make Ahead Tips

You can make the ice cream mixture up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to churn it in the ice cream maker.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Vanilla Pecan Ice Cream in a fancy glass or bowl, garnished with a sprig of mint or a dusting of cinnamon.

Pairing Recommendations

Vanilla Pecan Ice Cream pairs well with warm fruit crisps, chocolate desserts, or a slice of pie.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Vanilla Pecan Ice Cream contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Vanilla Pecan Ice Cream contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Vanilla Pecan Ice Cream contains approximately 20 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Vanilla Pecan Ice Cream contains approximately 5 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Vanilla Pecan Ice Cream is a good source of calcium, vitamin D, and potassium.

Alergens

Vanilla Pecan Ice Cream contains dairy and nuts.

Summary

Vanilla Pecan Ice Cream is a delicious dessert that is rich in carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also a good source of vitamins and minerals, but it may not be suitable for those with dairy or nut allergies.

Summary

Vanilla Pecan Ice Cream is a delicious and creamy dessert that is perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavors of vanilla and pecans, this homemade ice cream is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still picture the first time I came across this recipe for Vanilla Pecan Ice Cream. It was a hot summer day, much like today, and I was visiting my dear friend Martha. Martha was known in our small town for her incredible culinary skills, and she always had the most delicious treats waiting for me whenever I came over.

On that particular day, Martha invited me into her cozy kitchen and announced that she was going to make homemade ice cream. I was intrigued, as I had never tried making ice cream from scratch before. Martha pulled out a worn recipe card from her recipe box and began gathering the ingredients we would need.

As we worked together to make the ice cream base, Martha shared with me the story behind this particular recipe. She explained that she had learned it from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. The recipe was a family favorite, and Martha assured me that once I tried it, I would understand why.

The base for the ice cream was simple - milk, cream, sugar, and vanilla extract. But what set this recipe apart was the addition of toasted pecans. Martha explained that the pecans added a delicious crunch and nutty flavor to the creamy ice cream, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

As we churned the ice cream in Martha's old-fashioned ice cream maker, the sweet aroma of vanilla and toasted pecans filled the air. I couldn't wait to taste the finished product. After what felt like an eternity of waiting, the ice cream was finally ready.

I scooped myself a generous serving of the Vanilla Pecan Ice Cream and took my first bite. The creamy texture melted in my mouth, and the combination of sweet vanilla and crunchy pecans was absolutely divine. I was hooked from the very first taste.

From that day on, I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen. I asked Martha to write it down for me, and I made a promise to myself to make it for my own family and friends whenever I had the chance.

Over the years, I have made this Vanilla Pecan Ice Cream countless times. I have shared it with friends at potlucks and family gatherings, and it has always been met with rave reviews. People often ask me for the recipe, and I am always happy to pass it on, just as Martha did for me.

As I sit here now, enjoying a bowl of homemade Vanilla Pecan Ice Cream on a hot summer day, I can't help but feel grateful for the memories and friendships that this recipe has brought into my life. It may just be a simple dessert, but to me, it represents so much more - love, tradition, and the joy of sharing something special with those you care about.

So, if you ever find yourself craving a sweet treat on a hot summer day, I encourage you to give this recipe a try. I promise you won't be disappointed. And who knows, maybe one day you'll pass it on to someone special, just like Martha did for me.