Homemade Pralines and Cream Ice Cream 🍨✨

A rich, creamy vanilla ice cream loaded with buttery, caramelized pecan pralines and swirled with luscious caramel sauce. This classic treat combines smooth, crunchy, and sweet flavors for the perfect indulgence!

Ingredients

For the Praline Pecans:

¾ cup (100g) pecans, chopped
½ cup (100g) brown sugar
2 tbsp unsalted butter
¼ cup (60ml) heavy cream
¼ tsp salt
½ tsp vanilla extract

For the Ice Cream Base:

1½ cups (375ml) heavy cream
1½ cups (375ml) whole milk
¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
4 large egg yolks
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp salt

For the Caramel Swirl:

½ cup (120ml) caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Praline Pecans

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and stir in the brown sugar and heavy cream.
Cook, stirring, for 2–3 minutes, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture slightly thickens.
Stir in the chopped pecans and cook for 1–2 more minutes, coating them well.
Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract and salt, and spread the pralines on parchment paper to cool.

Step 2: Make the Ice Cream Base

In a saucepan, heat heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar over medium heat, stirring until warm (do not boil).
In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks until pale and creamy.
Slowly pour ½ cup of the warm milk mixture into the yolks while whisking to temper them.
Gradually pour the tempered yolks back into the saucepan, stirring continuously over low heat for 5–7 minutes, until slightly thickened (it should coat the back of a spoon).
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and salt.
Strain through a fine sieve for a silky texture. Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Step 3: Churn the Ice Cream

Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions (20–25 minutes).

Step 4: Add Pralines & Caramel Swirl

In the last 5 minutes of churning, fold in the praline pecans.
Transfer the churned ice cream into an airtight container, layering in caramel sauce for a ripple effect.

Step 5: Freeze & Serve

Cover and freeze for 4–6 hours until firm.
Scoop into bowls or cones, drizzle with extra caramel, and enjoy!

Why This Recipe Is Special:

✅ Crunchy, Buttery Praline Pecans 🌰
✅ Silky Smooth Vanilla Base 🍦
✅ Decadent Caramel Swirl 🍯
✅ Perfectly Balanced Sweet & Nutty Flavor

This Pralines and Cream Ice Cream is a rich, indulgent treat that will satisfy your sweet tooth! 🍨✨