As I stood in my kitchen, the sweet aroma of melting butter and brown sugar filled the air, instantly transporting me to warm summer evenings spent enjoying homemade treats. This experience perfectly culminates in my favorite recipe for Butterscotch Ice Cream. With its rich, creamy texture and the option to add a splash of bourbon for depth, this dessert is not only a delightful indulgence but also a simple treat that can elevate any gathering. Best of all, it requires minimal effort, making it the perfect way to impress friends and family without spending hours in the kitchen. Ready to savor each delightful scoop? Let’s dive into this creamy ice cream adventure!

Why is Butterscotch Ice Cream So Irresistible?

Irresistible Creaminess: Experience a velvety texture that melts in your mouth with every scoop.

Buttery Flavor: The rich combination of butter and dark brown sugar offers deep, satisfying flavors that will take you back to carefree summer days.

Easily Customizable: Feel free to incorporate unique additions like crushed butterscotch candies or a luscious swirl of fudge. This makes every batch a new experience!

Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Whether it’s a family gathering or a casual evening with friends, this Butterscotch Ice Cream will definitely steal the show!

Quick to Prepare: With minimal effort required, you can whip up this delightful treat in no time, allowing you to spend more moments enjoying it rather than making it.

For an equally delicious pairing, consider serving it alongside warm desserts like Southern Spaghetti Bake or drizzling it with caramel sauce!

Butterscotch Ice Cream Ingredients

For the Base

Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and flavor. Substitution: Use salted butter, but reduce added salt.
Dark Brown Sugar – Provides depth and caramel notes. Substitution: Light brown sugar yields a milder flavor.
Heavy Cream – Contributes to a creamy, velvety texture. Note: Use dairy-free heavy cream for a non-dairy version.
Whole Milk – Helps to balance creaminess with a lighter texture. Substitution: Use low-fat milk for a lighter version.
Bourbon (Optional) – Infuses complexity with caramel and oak notes. Substitution: Omit for non-alcoholic; or replace with vanilla extract.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor with aromatic notes. Substitution: Use vanilla bean for a more intense flavor.
Kosher Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavors. Note: A pinch is sufficient; adjust to taste.

For the Custard

Egg Yolks – Essential for creating a custard base, contributing to a rich mouthfeel. Warning: Ensure they’re fully cooked to prevent salmonella.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the mixture. Note: Adjust based on sweetness preference.

Enjoy crafting your homemade Butterscotch Ice Cream, a little indulgence just waiting to be served!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Butterscotch Ice Cream

Step 1: Melt butter and brown sugar
In a medium saucepan set over medium heat, melt 1/2 cup of unsalted butter until bubbly and fragrant, about 2 minutes. Stir in 1 cup of dark brown sugar, mixing well to dissolve. Allow this rich mixture to simmer for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly, then add 1/4 cup of heavy cream, bringing it to a gentle boil while stirring.

Step 2: Add remaining ingredients
Once boiling, remove the saucepan from the heat and pour in the remaining 2 cups of heavy cream and 1 cup of whole milk. If desired, add 2 tablespoons of bourbon for a depth of flavor. Return the mixture to medium heat and gently warm it until it reaches 165°F (73°C), ensuring everything is well combined for a smooth Butterscotch Ice Cream base.

Step 3: Prepare egg mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk together 5 large egg yolks and 3/4 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is thick and pale, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This ensures that your custard will be rich and creamy, essential for achieving the perfect texture in your Butterscotch Ice Cream.

Step 4: Temper eggs
To prevent the egg yolks from scrambling, gradually whisk in about 1 cup of the hot cream mixture into the egg mixture. Continue whisking continuously to ensure a smooth blend, then pour this tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining cream mixture. Return to medium heat, stirring constantly until it reaches 165°F (73°C) again.

Step 5: Combine and cool
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and a pinch of kosher salt to balance the sweetness. Pour the Butterscotch Ice Cream mixture into a large bowl or container, allowing it to cool slightly. Once cooled to room temperature, cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until very cold.

Step 6: Churn
Once the mixture is thoroughly chilled, transfer it to your ice cream maker. Churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, typically for about 25-30 minutes, or until the Butterscotch Ice Cream reaches a thick, soft-serve consistency. This is when those creamy, rich flavors start to develop beautifully.

Step 7: Freeze
Finally, scoop the churned ice cream into an airtight container. Spread it evenly and press a piece of parchment paper onto the surface to prevent ice crystals. Freeze for at least 4 hours or until firm, ensuring the ice cream holds its shape and is ready to serve for the most delightful homemade Butterscotch Ice Cream experience.

Butterscotch Ice Cream Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore your creativity by customizing this recipe, as there are countless ways to enrich your Butterscotch Ice Cream experience!

Add Some Crunch: Incorporate crushed butterscotch candies into the mixture during the churn for a delightful texture surprise.
Swirls of Sweetness: Swirl in fudge or caramel sauce before freezing for a decadent twist that elevates the flavor profile. Think of each scoop as a treasure hunt!
Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a creamy, lactose-free version that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Flavor Boost: Add vanilla bean in place of extract for an even richer and more aromatic flavor. It’s like a warm hug in every scoop!
Swap Some Sugar: For a unique twist, try using maple syrup instead of granulated sugar for a delightful depth of flavor.
Heat Things Up: Introduce a hint of cayenne pepper or chipotle powder for a surprising spicy kick that pairs beautifully with the sweetness.
Chocoholic’s Choice: Fold in chocolate flakes or chips during the last minutes of churning for a fabulous butterscotch-chocolate combination.
Culinary Adventure: Experiment with extracts like almond or rum instead of bourbon to see which flavor journey you prefer with your ice cream.

And don’t forget, if you appreciate rich creamy textures, consider trying it alongside a slice of warm cake or drizzling on top of your favorite Southern Spaghetti Bake!

What to Serve with Butterscotch Ice Cream?

Transform your simple scoop into an unforgettable dessert experience with these delightful pairings that awaken the senses.

Warm Apple Pie: The contrasting temperatures create a comforting balance, while the fruity sweetness complements the rich butterscotch.
Chocolate Fudge Brownies: These fudgy bites offer a decadent texture that enhances the buttery notes in the ice cream, resulting in blissful indulgence.
Salted Caramel Sauce: Drizzling this luscious sauce over your ice cream accentuates its flavor, adding an irresistible touch of sweetness and a hint of salt.
Roasted Nuts: Crunchy, roasted pecans or walnuts add a delightful texture that harmonizes well with the smoothness of the Butterscotch Ice Cream.
Fresh Berries: Their bright acidity cuts through the richness, providing a refreshing contrast that lightens up this creamy dessert. Imagine a vibrant mix of raspberries and blueberries.
Espresso or Coffee: A warm cup offers a lovely bitterness that complements the sweetness of the ice cream and can elevate your after-dinner experience.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: This classic pairing adds warmth and nostalgia, making your dessert spread even more inviting and fun.
Lemon Sorbet: A tart, icy contrast that perfectly balances the buttery flavors, cleansing your palate with every bite.
Classic Waffle Cones: For a fun and crunchy way to serve your Butterscotch Ice Cream, waffle cones offer a delightful crunch and vessel for enjoyment.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing Butterscotch Ice Cream is a breeze, especially when you leverage make-ahead strategies! You can prepare the ice cream mixture up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen and develop. Simply complete the first five steps of the recipe, chilling the mixture in the refrigerator until you’re ready to churn. For optimal taste and texture preservation, ensure the mixture is stored in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, just churn the mixture in your ice cream maker and freeze it until firm—your homemade Butterscotch Ice Cream will taste just as delightful as if made fresh that day, saving you precious time on busy evenings!

Expert Tips for Butterscotch Ice Cream

Chill Thoroughly: Make sure your ice cream mixture is very cold before churning; this helps achieve a creamy texture in your Butterscotch Ice Cream.
Avoid Scrambling: Gradually add the hot mixture to the egg yolks while whisking continuously to prevent them from cooking too quickly.
Use a Thermometer: Heating to 165°F (73°C) is crucial for food safety, ensuring egg yolks are fully cooked in your Butterscotch Ice Cream.
Ice Cream Maker Prep: Make sure to chill your ice cream maker’s bowl the night before to achieve the best consistency during churning.
Don’t Over-churn: Keep an eye on your ice cream as it churns; stop once it reaches a soft-serve consistency to prevent it from becoming too hard.

How to Store and Freeze Butterscotch Ice Cream

Fridge: Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days if you have leftover mixture, but it’s best served fresh to retain top flavors.

Freezer: Transfer your Butterscotch Ice Cream to an airtight container and freeze for up to 1 week. Ensure there’s minimal air in the container to prevent ice crystals.

Reheating: If your ice cream becomes too hard in the freezer, let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before scooping, making it easier to enjoy!

Serving Tips: Consider scooping it into bowls and drizzling with extra caramel or fudge sauce for an enhanced dessert experience.

Butterscotch Ice Cream Recipe FAQs

What ripeness of ingredients is best for this recipe?
For making Butterscotch Ice Cream, it’s best to use fresh ingredients. Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier melting, and use heavy cream and milk that are within their expiration dates for optimal flavor and texture. While overripe products aren’t usually an issue with this recipe, it’s vital that the egg yolks you use are fresh to guarantee safety and taste.

How should I store leftover Butterscotch Ice Cream?
Store your Butterscotch Ice Cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to one week for the best texture. To minimize ice crystal formation, press a piece of parchment paper onto the surface of the ice cream before sealing the container. That way, you can enjoy every spoonful as if it were freshly churned!

Can I freeze Butterscotch Ice Cream for longer periods?
Absolutely! If you’d like to keep your Butterscotch Ice Cream longer than a week, you can freeze it for up to three months. Just ensure it’s in an airtight container, and before serving, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes to soften, making scooping much easier.

What should I do if my Butterscotch Ice Cream is too hard?
If you find your ice cream too hard after freezing, this is a common issue. Just let it sit out at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes before scooping. Alternatively, you can try mixing in a spoonful of room temperature cream before serving to restore its creaminess without losing that delicious butterscotch flavor.

Can I make this recipe if I have allergies?
For those with dairy allergies, you can substitute the heavy cream with a dairy-free version, such as coconut cream or almond milk. Be sure to check your specific allergies against the ingredients used, especially with optional components like bourbon. If you’re unsure, consider omitting those elements or replacing them with safe alternatives like flavor extracts.

Can pets have a taste of the Butterscotch Ice Cream?
It’s best to keep this Butterscotch Ice Cream away from pets. Ingredients like sugar and egg yolks can upset their stomachs or cause other health issues. If you want to treat your furry friends, consider making a pet-friendly frozen treat specifically designed for them!