Caramel Chocolate Nut Ice Cream Recipe
Indulging in a scoop of homemade ice cream is one of life’s simple pleasures, and when that ice cream is as luxurious as Caramel Chocolate Nut Ice Cream, it becomes a delightful treat that is perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or just satisfying your sweet tooth. This recipe, which yields a generous two quarts, combines rich caramel, creamy chocolate, and crunchy pecans to create an ice cream that is both decadent and delightful. Get ready to make and share this exquisite dessert from lovewithrecipes.com!
Recipe Overview
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 45 minutes |
| Cook Time | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 1 hour 15 minutes |
| Recipe Category | Frozen Desserts |
| Servings | 16 |
| Yield | 2 quarts |
| Keywords | Dessert, For Large Groups, Small Appliance, < 4 Hours |
| Description | Make and share this Caramel Chocolate Nut Ice Cream recipe from lovewithrecipes.com. |
Ingredients
To create this luscious ice cream, you will need the following ingredients, measured and prepared for ease of use:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sugar | 2 ½ cups |
| Heavy Cream | 4 cups |
| Milk | 2 cups |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Pecan Halves | 3 cups |
| Dried Milk Powder | 6 – 7 tablespoons |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Chocolate (diced) | (as needed, for mixing with nuts) |
Nutritional Information
This creamy treat is not just delicious but also provides a satisfying nutritional profile. Here’s the breakdown per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 479.6 |
| Total Fat | 36.4 g |
| Saturated Fat | 15.4 g |
| Cholesterol | 84.9 mg |
| Sodium | 117.5 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 37.8 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.8 g |
| Sugars | 34.6 g |
| Protein | 4.6 g |
Instructions
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s walk through the step-by-step process to create this delightful Caramel Chocolate Nut Ice Cream. Each step has been crafted to ensure you achieve the best results, allowing you to savor every creamy bite.
-
Prepare the Caramel Base:
- Begin by placing ½ cup of water and 2 ½ cups of sugar into a large, heavy-bottomed pan. This combination is the foundation of your caramel.
- Cook over low heat without stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved. It is crucial to keep the heat low during this stage to prevent the sugar from crystallizing.
-
Create the Caramel:
- Once dissolved, increase the heat to high and allow the mixture to boil. Keep an eye on it as it transforms; in about 3 to 5 minutes, the sugar will take on a warm mahogany color, signaling that it has reached the caramel stage.
- During this process, avoid stirring the mixture. Instead, gently swirl the pan occasionally to ensure even cooking. This will give you a beautifully consistent caramel flavor.
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Incorporate the Dairy:
- When the caramel reaches the desired color, remove the pan from the heat. Carefully pour in 4 cups of heavy cream and 2 cups of milk. This mixture will bubble vigorously due to the heat of the caramel, so take precautions to avoid any splatters.
- Once the cream is added, return the pan to low heat, stirring constantly until the caramel dissolves completely into the cream and milk. This process may take several minutes, but it is essential for achieving a smooth base.
-
Finish the Base:
- Stir in 6 to 7 tablespoons of dry milk powder until fully dissolved, which will add creaminess to the final product.
- Add in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to enhance the overall flavor of your ice cream.
- Next, pour the mixture through a fine sieve into a suitable container to remove any lumps or impurities, ensuring a silky-smooth texture. Allow it to chill in the refrigerator until very cold; this step is crucial for the best ice cream consistency.
-
Prepare the Pecans:
- While your base is chilling, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the pecan halves on a baking sheet and toast them for 6 to 10 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and fragrant. This step enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch to your ice cream.
- Once toasted, remove the pecans from the oven and let them cool completely. Once cooled, chop them into smaller pieces that will be mixed into the ice cream.
-
Combine with Chocolate:
- In a separate bowl, combine the chopped pecans with diced chocolate. This will ensure that every scoop of your ice cream has both chocolate and nutty goodness. Store this mixture in the freezer while you continue.
-
Churn the Ice Cream:
- Once the caramel base is chilled, pour it into your ice cream maker. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for churning. Typically, this will take around 20 to 30 minutes, and you will notice the mixture thickening and becoming creamy.
- About five minutes before the churning is complete, add in the pecan and chocolate mixture. This timing allows the nuts and chocolate to distribute evenly throughout the ice cream without losing their texture.
-
Freeze the Ice Cream:
- After churning, transfer the ice cream to an airtight container. Smooth the top with a spatula and press a piece of parchment paper against the surface to minimize air exposure.
- Place the container in the freezer for at least 4 hours, or until the ice cream is firm. This step is vital to ensure that your ice cream has the perfect scoopable texture.
-
Serve and Enjoy:
- Once fully frozen, your Caramel Chocolate Nut Ice Cream is ready to serve. Scoop it into bowls or cones, and consider drizzling extra caramel sauce on top for an added treat.
- Enjoy the combination of creamy caramel, rich chocolate, and crunchy pecans with family and friends.
Creating your own Caramel Chocolate Nut Ice Cream is not just about following a recipe; it is about crafting a dessert that brings joy to every occasion. With its sweet, rich flavors and satisfying textures, this ice cream is sure to become a beloved favorite in your home. Share it at gatherings or savor it on a quiet evening while indulging in the simple pleasure of a homemade treat. Enjoy your culinary adventure with this exquisite dessert from lovewithrecipes.com!
