Bourbon Street Pecan Ice Cream

4 servings Prep: 30 m Cook: PT0M Total: 24 h 30 m Intermediate
Bourbon Street Pecan Ice Cream
Bourbon Street embodies the spirit of New Orleans - where music, culture, and cuisine blend in electric harmony. This ice cream captures the essence of the famous street with rich pecans representing Louisiana’s agricultural heritage, combined with subtle bourbon notes that echo the jazz clubs and sophisticated cocktail culture of the French Quarter. This modern fusion honors both the timeless tradition of pecan desserts and the vibrant energy of Bourbon Street, creating a dessert that’s both elegant and celebratory - perfect for the city that knows how to live life to the fullest.

Ingredients

  • 1 3/4 cups vanilla protein shake or whole milk
  • 1/4 tsp xanthan gum
  • 1 tbsp sugar + 2 tbsp monk fruit/erythritol
  • 1/3 cup pecans, toasted and chopped
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 tsp bourbon extract (or rum extract)
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar substitute
  • 1/4 tsp cinnamon
  • Pinch of sea salt
  • 2 tbsp caramelized pecan pieces (for mix-in)

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Mix xanthan gum, sweetener blends, brown sugar substitute, cinnamon, and sea salt in Ninja Creami pint container.
  2. Blend protein shake (or milk), chopped pecans, vanilla extract, and bourbon extract until well combined.
  3. Toast pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until fragrant, then chop. Caramelize some with additional brown sugar substitute over low heat, stirring constantly until coated and glossy.
  4. Freeze for 24 hours minimum until completely solid.
  5. Process on LITE ICE CREAM setting. If needed, add 1-2 tbsp liquid and re-spin.
  6. Mix-in caramelized pecan pieces during final processing for jazz club sophistication.

Common Problems and Solutions

Q: Why is my ice cream icy or grainy?

A: Make sure the mixture is frozen completely solid for the full 24 hours. If it's still grainy after processing, add 1-2 tablespoons of liquid and re-spin to create a creamier texture.

Q: Can I make this without a Ninja Creami?

A: This recipe is specifically designed for the Ninja Creami's processing method. For traditional ice cream makers, you'll need to adjust the recipe to include more fat (heavy cream) and follow your machine's instructions.

Tips and Techniques

Toast those pecans until they smell like heaven - that’s when you know they’re ready for this special ice cream!

Ingredient Substitutions

  • vanilla protein shake: whole milk or half-and-half
  • bourbon extract: 1-2 tablespoons real bourbon (reduce liquid elsewhere)
  • monk fruit/erythritol: regular sugar

Equipment Needed

  • Ninja Creami ice cream maker
  • Ninja Creami pint container
  • Small skillet for toasting pecans

Historical Context

Bourbon Street embodies the spirit of New Orleans - where music, culture, and cuisine blend in electric harmony. This ice cream captures the essence of the famous street with rich pecans representing Louisiana’s agricultural heritage, combined with subtle bourbon notes that echo the jazz clubs and sophisticated cocktail culture of the French Quarter.