Peach Pecan Dream Ice Cream
Indulge in the delightful flavors of summer with our Peach Pecan Dream Ice Cream! Inspired by classic Southern desserts, this rich and creamy ice cream is packed with chunks of ripe peaches and toasted pecans, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and crunch. Easy to make and even easier to love, this recipe is a must-have for gatherings, barbecues, or a simple treat at home. With a base of creamy milk, heavy whipping cream, and a touch of vanilla, every scoop offers a taste of Southern sunshine. Enjoy a taste of the South in every bite, and don't forget that substitution with vanilla extract works just as well if you're in a pinch!
N/A
Servings
150
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
Sugar
3/4 cup (Granulated, for sweetening the ice cream base)
Cornstarch
2 tablespoons (Used as a thickener for the ice cream base)
Table Salt
1/8 teaspoon (Enhances the overall sweetness)
Milk
2 cups (Whole or 2% milk for a creamy texture)
Heavy Whipping Cream
1 cup (For a rich, creamy base)
Egg Yolk
1 (Provides richness and helps emulsify the mixture)
Vanilla Bean Paste
1 1/2 teaspoons (For a deep, vanilla flavor; substitute with vanilla extract if necessary)
Peach
1 cup (Peeled and coarsely chopped, for flavor and texture)
Light Corn Syrup
2 tablespoons (For sweetness and to help prevent ice crystals)
Butter
1 1/2 tablespoons (For toasting the pecans)
Pecans
1 cup (Coarsely chopped, for crunch and flavor)
Kosher Salt
1/4 teaspoon (For seasoning the toasted pecans)
Instructions
1
In a large heavy saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and table salt until combined. Gradually add the milk and heavy whipping cream, whisking continuously.
2
Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, for 10-12 minutes or until the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat.
3
In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolk until slightly thickened. Gradually stir in about 1 cup of the hot cream mixture into the egg yolk to temper it, then add the yolk mixture back into the saucepan, whisking constantly to combine.
4
Stir in the vanilla bean paste. Allow the mixture to cool for 1 hour, stirring occasionally to prevent a skin from forming.
5
In a small saucepan, cook the chopped peaches with the corn syrup over medium heat for 4-5 minutes, stirring often until softened. Coarsely mash the peaches and let them cool for 30 minutes before stirring them into the cream mixture.
6
Cover the cream mixture with plastic wrap, pressing it directly against the surface to prevent oxidation. Chill in the refrigerator for 8-24 hours.
7
In a small skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the pecans, and cook while stirring constantly for 8-9 minutes until they are toasted and fragrant. Remove from heat, sprinkle with kosher salt, and let them cool completely (about 30 minutes).
8
Pour the chilled cream mixture into the freezer container of a 1.5-quart electric ice cream maker, and freeze according to the manufacturer's instructions.
9
Once the ice cream reaches a soft-serve consistency, stir in the toasted pecan mixture before transferring it to an airtight container. Freeze for additional firmness if desired.
Nutrition Information
10g
Fat
13g
Carbs
2.5g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Peach Pecan Dream Ice Cream?
Peach Pecan Dream Ice Cream is a rich and creamy Southern-inspired dessert featuring ripe peaches and buttery toasted pecans.
Can I substitute vanilla bean paste in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute vanilla bean paste with an equal amount of vanilla extract if you are in a pinch.
What kind of milk should I use for the best texture?
The recipe recommends using either whole milk or 2% milk to achieve a creamy texture.
Why is cornstarch used in the ice cream base?
Cornstarch acts as a thickener, helping to create a smooth and stable ice cream base.
How do I temper the egg yolk for the custard?
Gradually stir about 1 cup of the hot cream mixture into the whisked egg yolk, then add the mixture back into the saucepan while whisking constantly.
How long does the ice cream base need to chill before churning?
The cream mixture should be chilled in the refrigerator for 8 to 24 hours.
What is the purpose of cooking the peaches with light corn syrup?
Cooking the peaches with corn syrup softens them and helps prevent the formation of large ice crystals in the fruit.
How do I toast the pecans for this recipe?
Melt butter in a small skillet, add the pecans, and stir constantly for 8-9 minutes until fragrant, then season with kosher salt.
When should I add the toasted pecans to the ice cream?
Stir in the toasted pecan mixture once the ice cream has reached a soft-serve consistency in the maker.
What size ice cream maker is required for this recipe?
This recipe is designed for a 1.5-quart electric ice cream maker.
How many calories are in a serving of this ice cream?
There are approximately 150 calories per serving.
How do I prevent a skin from forming on the cream mixture?
Stir the mixture occasionally while cooling for the first hour and then press plastic wrap directly against the surface before chilling.
Can I use frozen peaches instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen peaches, though fresh ripe peaches are preferred for the best summer flavor.
How long do I cook the milk and cream mixture?
Cook the mixture over medium heat for 10-12 minutes or until it thickens slightly.
What kind of salt is best for the pecans?
Kosher salt is recommended for seasoning the toasted pecans.
How many grams of fat are in this dessert?
One serving contains 10g of fat.
Is this recipe considered Southern cuisine?
Yes, it is inspired by classic Southern desserts and features traditional ingredients like peaches and pecans.
How long should the mashed peaches cool?
The mashed peaches should cool for 30 minutes before being stirred into the cream mixture.
What is the carbohydrate count per serving?
Each serving contains 13g of carbohydrates.
Can I use a different type of nut?
While pecans are traditional for this dream ice cream, you could substitute them with walnuts or almonds if desired.
How much protein is in one serving?
There is 2.5g of protein per serving.
How do I prepare the peaches?
The peaches should be peeled and coarsely chopped before cooking.
What does the egg yolk do in this recipe?
The egg yolk provides richness and helps emulsify the cream base for a smoother mouthfeel.
Is the butter salted or unsalted?
The recipe calls for butter and separate kosher salt, so unsalted butter is typically used to control the seasoning.
How much sugar is in the base?
The base uses 3/4 cup of granulated sugar.
How long do the peaches cook for?
The peaches cook with corn syrup for 4-5 minutes until softened.
Do I need to peel the peaches?
Yes, the instructions specify that the peaches should be peeled for the best texture.
How much heavy whipping cream is needed?
The recipe requires 1 cup of heavy whipping cream.
Can I store the ice cream in the freezer long-term?
Yes, transfer the finished ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for additional firmness and storage.
Why is it called 'Dream' ice cream?
It is named for its rich, creamy texture and the perfect balance of sweet peaches and crunchy toasted pecans.