Can I use non-alcoholic whiskey flavoring instead?

Yes, you can replace whiskey with an extract for a family-friendly version, though the flavor will be less complex.

Should the pecans be added before or after churning?

Always fold in toasted pecans after churning to keep them crunchy.

Can I swap pecans for other nuts?

Absolutely—walnuts or hazelnuts also pair beautifully with whiskey.

Jeni’s Whiskey & Pecans Ice Cream 🥃🌰 (Nutty Bourbon Delight)

Name: Jeni’s Whiskey & Pecans Ice Cream 🥃🌰 (Nutty Bourbon Delight)
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: Whole milk; Cornstarch; Cream cheese, softened; Fine sea salt; Heavy cream; Granulated sugar; Light corn syrup; Whiskey or bourbon; Pecans, chopped

A decadent ice cream from Jeni Britton Bauer—creamy eggless base infused with smooth whiskey and studded with buttery toasted pecans for a grown-up treat.

A Grown-Up Scoop: Whiskey & Pecans Ice Cream 🥃🌰

When it comes to indulgent frozen treats, nothing feels quite as decadent as a boozy ice cream. Jeni’s Whiskey & Pecans Ice Cream takes the richness of her signature eggless base and elevates it with smooth whiskey and buttery toasted pecans. The result? A nutty, slightly smoky scoop that feels sophisticated yet comforting.

This is not your average ice cream—it’s a bourbon-kissed delight that pairs perfectly with after-dinner coffee, a slice of pie, or simply enjoyed on its own. 🍨✨

Why You’ll Love This Recipe 💛

Boozy and bold – whiskey (or bourbon) adds depth and warmth.
Crunchy texture – toasted pecans give that perfect nutty bite.
Eggless and creamy – Jeni’s cornstarch-based technique ensures a silky finish.
Versatile – serve it as a holiday dessert, dinner party finale, or an indulgent nightcap treat.

The Magic of Whiskey in Ice Cream 🥃

Alcohol in ice cream does more than add flavor—it also lowers the freezing point, keeping the texture scoopable and soft straight from the freezer. Choosing a quality bourbon or whiskey makes all the difference here: its caramel and oak notes marry beautifully with the sweetness of cream and pecans.

For a non-alcoholic version, you can substitute whiskey extract, though the complexity won’t be quite the same.

The Star Ingredient: Toasted Pecans 🌰🔥

Toasting pecans in butter and sugar brings out their natural nuttiness and adds a subtle caramel crunch. Folding them in after churning keeps every bite textured and satisfying.

👉 Pro tip: Don’t skip this step—untoasted nuts won’t have the same flavor impact.

Serving Ideas 🍽️

Pair with pie – especially pumpkin, pecan, or apple pie for the ultimate fall dessert.
Affogato twist – pour a shot of hot espresso over a scoop for a nutty-bourbon kick.
Sandwich it – scoop between two chocolate cookies for an indulgent ice cream sandwich.

Final Scoop ✨

This Whiskey & Pecans Ice Cream is proof that dessert can be both playful and grown-up. The creamy base, boozy undertones, and crunchy nuts make it unforgettable. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday dinner or keeping it all to yourself (we won’t judge 😉), this recipe is bound to become a seasonal favorite.

So grab a spoon, pour yourself a little extra bourbon on the side, and dig in. 🥂🍨