If you’ve ever craved the rich, buttery indulgence of a classic dessert but wanted to take it up a notch, this velvety butter ice cream is your answer. With a simple combination of heavy cream and high-quality butter, this delightful treat captures a luxurious flavor, reminiscent of beloved butter pecan ice cream but with an even more intense buttery richness. What’s more, you’ll only need a handful of ingredients and an ice cream maker to whip this up at home! This recipe not only delivers a creamy texture that melts in your mouth but is also a fantastic crowd-pleaser—perfect for summer gatherings or cozy nights in. Ready to elevate your dessert game? Let’s dive into this buttery bliss together!

Why is Butter Ice Cream a Must-Try?

Creamy Luxury: This butter ice cream boasts a rich, velvety texture that will have you dreaming about your next scoop.

Simple Ingredients: With just a few pantry staples, you can create a delightful dessert that impresses friends and family.

Ultimate Crowd-Pleaser: Whether at a BBQ or cozy movie night, this ice cream is a guaranteed hit. Pair it with Biscoff Cookie Butter desserts for an elevated experience!

Unique Flavor: Enjoy a distinctly buttery flavor that sets it apart from typical ice creams, making it a standout treat.

Easy to Customize: Have fun experimenting by adding crushed cookies or candies, or even try a drizzle of salted caramel for an indulgent touch!

Butter Ice Cream Ingredients

For the Base

Heavy Cream – Adds a creamy foundation for a rich texture.
Sugar – Sweetens and enhances the flavors; granulated sugar works best.
Coarse Kosher Salt – Balances sweetness and elevates overall taste; substitute with regular salt if necessary.
Egg Yolks – Provides a custard base for added richness and smoothness.

For the Flavor

Good Butter (room temperature) – The star of the recipe; choose high-quality, non-cultured European butter for maximum butter flavor.
Butter Extract (optional) – Boosts the butter notes; a great option if you’re using lower-quality butter.

Embrace the joy of making your own butter ice cream, and let every scoop remind you why homemade desserts are simply the best!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Butter Ice Cream

Step 1: Prepare Ice Cream Maker
Start by ensuring your ice cream maker is properly frozen. Place the freezer bowl in the freezer at least 24 hours prior to making the butter ice cream. This step is crucial for achieving that delightful, creamy texture. You’ll know it’s ready when the bowl feels completely solid to the touch.

Step 2: Heat and Dissolve
In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, sugar, and coarse kosher salt over low heat. Whisk gently until the sugar dissolves, which should take about 5 minutes. Once fully blended, you’ll see a smooth mixture, signaling it’s time to remove the saucepan from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 3: Temper Eggs
While your cream mixture cools, whisk the egg yolks in a separate bowl until they lighten in color, about 2 minutes. Gradually add a small amount of the warm cream mix to the yolks while whisking vigorously. This step helps prevent curdling. Slowly incorporate the yolk mixture back into the saucepan, whisking continuously for a creamy custard base.

Step 4: Incorporate Butter
Next, add the room-temperature butter to the mixture in the saucepan, stirring to combine it smoothly. Don’t worry if it appears clumpy at first; keep stirring until the butter is fully melted and the mixture is velvety and rich, showcasing that beautiful buttery flavor central to the butter ice cream.

Step 5: Churn
Now pour the creamy mixture into your pre-frozen ice cream maker. Turn it on and churn for about 30 minutes, or until it has thickened and fluffed up significantly. You’ll know it’s ready when it forms soft peaks and has a luscious, creamy texture, inviting you to indulge immediately.

Step 6: Freeze
Transfer your freshly churned butter ice cream into an airtight container, smoothing the top with a spatula. Freeze it for about 2 hours or until it firms up completely. This final step will yield a scoopable dessert that’s creamy and rich, perfect for savoring on its own or alongside your favorite treats.

Make Ahead Options

Making your velvety butter ice cream ahead of time is a fantastic way to enjoy this treat without the last-minute hustle! You can prepare the custard base up to 3 days in advance; just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The butter will maintain its rich flavor and quality this way. When you’re ready to churn, simply pour the chilled mixture into your ice cream maker and follow the churning step as usual. For the best results, ensure the ice cream maker bowl is frozen at least 24 hours prior to use. This preparation not only saves time but also guarantees delicious, creamy butter ice cream whenever you desire it!

Storage Tips for Butter Ice Cream

Fridge: Store any leftover butter ice cream in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, but for best flavor and texture, consume it fresh within 2 weeks.
Freezer: Place your butter ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer to keep it fresh for up to 2 weeks. Make sure to seal it tightly to prevent freezer burn.
Serving Recovery: If your butter ice cream becomes too hard, let it sit at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes before scooping for a smoother, more enjoyable texture.
Reheating Tips: There’s no need to reheat ice cream, but if you want to use it as a topping, gently warm your serving dish to help soften the butter ice cream for easier drizzling.

Expert Tips for Butter Ice Cream

Butter Quality Matters: Use high-quality, non-cultured European butter to maximize the rich, buttery flavor essential in your butter ice cream.
Soften, Don’t Melt: Ensure your butter is room temperature and softened, not melted, to achieve a smooth mixture without lumps.
Watch the Churning: Monitor the consistency as it churns; a thick, creamy texture is key to a perfect butter ice cream.
Cool Gradually: Allow the cream mixture to cool adequately before adding yolks to prevent curdling—this keeps your ice cream smooth and creamy.
Scoop Strategy: For easier serving, run your ice cream scoop under hot water before scooping out your butter ice cream, making it effortless to serve!

What to Serve with Velvety Butter Ice Cream

Treat your taste buds to a symphony of flavors by elevating your dessert spread with delightful pairings that enhance each creamy scoop.

Fresh Berries: Use seasonal strawberries or raspberries to add a juicy tartness that cuts through the richness of the ice cream. The vibrant colors and flavors provide a delightful contrast!
Chocolate Sauce: A velvety drizzle of chocolate sauce creates a heavenly chocolate-butter combination that’s hard to resist. The sweetness complements the ice cream’s buttery notes in every delicious bite.
Nutty Brownies: Serving warm, fudgy brownies alongside the butter ice cream creates a warm and cool experience that’s utterly indulgent. The rich texture of the brownies provides a satisfying contrast to the creamy ice cream.
Shortbread Cookies: These delicate, buttery cookies echo the ice cream’s flavors while adding a delightful crunch. Crumble them on top for an added texture and a tea-time feel!
Caramel Swirl: A swirl of homemade or store-bought caramel sauce adds a sweet, buttery contrast that takes your dessert experience to new heights. Drizzle generously for a gooey finish!
Creamy Cheesecake: A slice of creamy cheesecake balances the lushness of the butter ice cream, offering a tangy and sweet combination. Pairing these treats guarantees smiles all around.
Classic Apple Pie: The warm spiced flavor of apple pie pairs beautifully with creamy butter ice cream, creating a nostalgic dessert that feels like a hug in a bowl.

Indulge in these pairings to transform your butter ice cream into a true dessert extravaganza!

Butter Ice Cream Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with this butter ice cream recipe by making tasty adjustments that suit your flavor preferences!

Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free option, enhancing it with a hint of vanilla.
Nutty Twist: Add finely chopped toasted almonds or pecans during churning for a delightful crunch and rich flavor.
Cocoa Delight: Mix in cocoa powder or melted chocolate for a luscious chocolate butter ice cream that chocolate lovers will adore.
Fruit Infusion: Blend in pureed fruits like strawberries or mango before churning to create a refreshing fruity version.
Salted Caramel: Drizzle salted caramel into the mixture during the last minutes of churning for a sweet, salty combination that’s irresistible.
Spiced Version: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cream mixture before heating for a warm spice flavor that’s perfect for cozy nights.
Flavor Boost: Swap butter extract with other extracts like hazelnut or maple for unique twists on the traditional flavor.
Chocolate Chip: Fold in mini chocolate chips just before transferring the mix to the container for a delightful surprise in every scoop.

With every variation, you’re just one scoop away from a delightful experience! Consider pairing your butter ice cream with a slice of Biscoff Cookie Butter cake or drizzling it over a warm brownie for an unforgettable treat.

Butter Ice Cream Recipe FAQs

What type of butter should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely, the quality of butter plays a key role in achieving an indulgent butter ice cream. I recommend using high-quality, non-cultured European butter, which will lend a rich, creamy taste to your dessert. If you opt for lower-quality butter, consider adding a butter extract to enhance the flavor profile.

How long can I store homemade butter ice cream?
You can store your butter ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. To prevent freezer burn, make sure the container is sealed tightly. You’ll want to enjoy it fresh for the best flavor and texture, so make it a goal to consume it within that timeframe!

Can I freeze leftover butter ice cream? What’s the best method?
Definitely! To freeze your butter ice cream, simply transfer it into an airtight container after churning. Place a piece of parchment paper directly on the surface of the ice cream before sealing with the lid. This method will help prevent ice crystals from forming and keep your dessert smooth and creamy. It’ll stay fresh in the freezer for about 2 weeks.

How do I prevent my ice cream from becoming icy?
Very good question! The key to avoiding icy butter ice cream is proper churning. Ensure your ice cream maker is adequately frozen and that you don’t skip the churning process. Aim for a thick, creamy consistency before transferring it to the freezer. If your cream mixture cools fully before tempering the eggs, you should end up with a delightful texture without any icy surprises.

Can I customize my butter ice cream for dietary restrictions?
Certainly! If you’re accommodating someone with dairy allergies, you can experiment with lactose-free butter or cream alternatives, such as coconut cream. Just keep in mind that this may affect the final flavor and texture slightly, but it’s a great way to make a delicious treat accessible to everyone!