Ninja Creami Butter Pecan Ice Cream is a rich and creamy homemade version of the classic ice cream parlor favorite. Made with a smooth brown sugar ice cream base and crunchy, buttery toasted pecans, this indulgent treat is easy to prepare and perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Homemade and fresh: Enjoy a preservative-free, high-quality ice cream made right in your kitchen.
- Easy to make: Simple ingredients and a Ninja Creami machine do all the work.
- Rich and creamy texture: A perfect balance of smooth ice cream and crunchy toasted pecans.
- Customizable: Add extra mix-ins or adjust the sweetness to your liking.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Ice Cream Base:
- 1 cup (237ml) whole milk
- ⅔ cup (158ml) heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon cream cheese (you may need another tablespoon)
- ½ cup (100g) brown sugar
Mix-ins:
- ⅔ cup (85g) toasted chopped pecans
- 1 tablespoon butter
Directions
Step 1: Toast the Pecans
- In a small skillet over medium-high heat, toast the chopped pecans for about 4 minutes.
- Add the butter, stirring continuously for another minute.
- Remove from heat, let cool, and roughly chop the pecans.
Step 2: Prepare the Ice Cream Base
- In the Ninja Creami pint container, whisk together the whole milk, heavy cream, cream cheese, and brown sugar until fully blended.
- Cover the container and place it on a level surface in the freezer. Freeze for 24 hours.
Step 3: Process in the Ninja Creami
- Remove the frozen container from the freezer, take off the lid, and place it in the Ninja Creami machine according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Select the “Ice Cream” setting and allow the machine to process.
Step 4: Add the Mix-Ins
- Once the base is processed, create a small well in the center of the ice cream using a butter knife.
- Add most of the toasted pecans (reserving some for garnish), along with any remaining butter.
- Return the container to the Ninja Creami and select the “Mix-Ins” function.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove the ice cream from the machine, garnish with the remaining pecans, and serve immediately.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Freezing and Processing Time: 1 day 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 day 30 minutes
Variations
- Extra crunch: Add crushed shortbread cookies or toffee bits for more texture.
- Sweeter version: Drizzle caramel sauce over the ice cream before serving.
- Chocolate twist: Mix in chocolate chips or swirl in melted chocolate for a nutty chocolate flavor.
- Dairy-free option: Use coconut milk and a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep leftover ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to a month.
- Re-spinning: If the ice cream hardens too much, use the “Re-Spin” function on the Ninja Creami before serving.
- Softening: If needed, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before scooping.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of nut?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or macadamia nuts for a different flavor.
2. What if my ice cream isn’t creamy enough?
Use the “Re-Spin” function before adding mix-ins. If it’s still too icy, add a splash of cream or milk and process again.
3. Do I have to use the full 24-hour freezing time?
Yes, for the best results, allow the base to freeze completely before processing.
4. Can I add other flavors?
Absolutely! Try adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a dash of cinnamon for extra depth.
5. How do I prevent mix-ins from getting crushed?
Make sure to create a well in the ice cream before adding mix-ins so they blend evenly without being over-processed.
6. Can I make this without a Ninja Creami?
This recipe is specifically designed for the Ninja Creami, but you can try blending the base, freezing it, and churning it in a traditional ice cream maker.
7. Is there a low-sugar option?
You can replace brown sugar with a sugar substitute like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener.
8. Can I use light cream instead of heavy cream?
Heavy cream is recommended for the creamiest texture, but you can use half-and-half for a lighter version.
9. Will the ice cream taste good without the mix-ins?
Yes! The base is still delicious on its own, but the buttered pecans add a special touch.
10. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but you will need to freeze and process the ice cream in separate batches.
Conclusion
Ninja Creami Butter Pecan Ice Cream is an easy-to-make, creamy, and indulgent dessert that captures the flavors of the classic butter pecan ice cream. With its rich brown sugar base and crunchy toasted pecans, this homemade treat is perfect for any occasion. Try it today and enjoy a scoop of homemade goodness!
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Ninja Creami Butter Pecan Ice Cream
- Total Time: 1 day 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Ninja Creami Butter Pecan Ice Cream is a rich, creamy, and buttery homemade version of the classic ice cream shop favorite. Toasted pecans, brown sugar, and a silky smooth ice cream base come together for the perfect frozen treat. Made effortlessly in the Ninja Creami, this indulgent dessert is perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
Ice Cream Base:
- 1 cup (237ml) whole milk
- 2/3 cup (158ml) heavy cream
- 1 tbsp cream cheese (may need an extra tablespoon)
- 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar
Mix-Ins:
- 2/3 cup (85g) toasted chopped pecans
- 1 tbsp butter
Instructions
- Toast the Pecans:
- In a small skillet over medium-high heat, toast the chopped pecans for about 4 minutes.
- Add the butter and continue to toss for another minute.
- Remove from heat, let cool, and set aside.
- Prepare the Ice Cream Base:
- In the Ninja Creami pint container, whisk together whole milk, heavy cream, cream cheese, and brown sugar until well combined.
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully mixed for a smooth texture.
- Freeze the Mixture:
- Cover and freeze on a flat surface in the freezer for 24 hours.
- Process in the Ninja Creami:
- Remove the container from the freezer and place it in the Ninja Creami machine according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Select the Ice Cream setting and process.
- Add the Mix-Ins:
- Once processed, use a butter knife to create a well in the center of the ice cream.
- Add most of the buttered pecans (saving some for garnish), making sure to include any leftover melted butter.
- Place the container back in the Ninja Creami and select the Mix-Ins function to evenly incorporate the pecans.
- Serve & Enjoy:
- Garnish with the remaining pecans and serve immediately.
Notes
- Don’t skip the well: Creating a small hole in the center of the ice cream before adding mix-ins ensures an even distribution.
- Check consistency: If the ice cream isn’t smooth enough, use the Re-Spin function before adding mix-ins. If needed, add a splash of cream or milk and re-spin again.
- Make multiple batches: If you want ice cream on demand, prep and freeze more than one pint at a time.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 1 month.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Freezing & Processing Time: 1 day 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: No-Churn, Frozen
- Cuisine: American, Western
