Creamy Homemade Butterscotch Ice Cream Recipe

There’s something magical about the combination of brown sugar and butter that creates the deep, caramel-like flavor of butterscotch. And when you churn this rich base into ice cream, you get an indulgent treat that’s both nostalgic and irresistible. This Butterscotch Ice Cream Recipe is easy to make at home, using simple ingredients and no artificial flavors. Whether you’re serving it on a hot summer day or as a cozy winter dessert, this creamy delight is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

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📋 Recipe Overview

• Course: Dessert

• Cuisine: American, Global

• Servings: 6

• Calories: Approx. 290 per serving

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Active Time: 20 minutes

• Resting/Freezing Time: 6–8 hours

• Total Time: 8 hours 35 minutes

• Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate

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🛠️ Equipment Needed

• Heavy-bottomed saucepan

• Mixing bowls

• Whisk or electric mixer

• Spatula

• Ice cream maker (optional, no-churn method available)

• Airtight container for freezing

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🧂 Ingredients

For Butterscotch Base:

• ¾ cup brown sugar (light or dark)

• ¼ cup unsalted butter

• ½ teaspoon sea salt

• 1¼ cups heavy cream

• 1 cup whole milk

• 1½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract

• 4 egg yolks (for a custard-style base)

Optional (For Extra Texture):

• ¼ cup butterscotch chips or toffee bits

• Crushed caramelized nuts or praline

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🧾 Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Note: Values may vary depending on portion size and exact ingredients used.

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🍦 Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Butterscotch Sauce

1. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.

2. Add the brown sugar and stir continuously until it dissolves and starts to bubble.

3. Stir in salt and ½ cup of the heavy cream slowly. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.

4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Set aside to cool.

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Step 2: Make the Custard Base (Optional but Recommended)

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks.

2. Gradually add the warm butterscotch mixture to the egg yolks, whisking constantly to temper them.

3. Pour the mixture back into the saucepan.

4. Heat over low-medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon (around 170°F or 77°C).

5. Remove from heat and add the remaining milk and heavy cream.

6. Strain through a sieve into a clean bowl to remove any curdled bits.

7. Let it cool, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

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Step 3: Churn the Ice Cream

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

2. If using butterscotch chips or toffee bits, add them during the last 5 minutes of churning.

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Step 4: Freeze and Set

1. Transfer the churned ice cream into an airtight container.

2. Cover the surface with parchment or plastic wrap to prevent ice crystals.

3. Freeze for 6–8 hours or until firm.

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👉 No-Churn Option (Without Ice Cream Maker)

1. Whip 1½ cups heavy cream to stiff peaks.

2. Fold in the cooled butterscotch sauce and condensed milk (instead of egg yolks and milk).

3. Pour into a container, add toppings or mix-ins, and freeze overnight.

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👨‍🍳 Tips & Variations

• Salted Butterscotch Ice Cream: Add an extra pinch of flaky sea salt on top before serving.

• Boozy Twist: Stir in a tablespoon of bourbon or rum for an adult version.

• Vegan Version: Use coconut cream, almond milk, and a vegan butter substitute with maple syrup for a plant-based option.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• Serve in waffle cones, bowls, or sandwiched between cookies.

• Pair with warm brownies or apple pie for a dessert upgrade.

• Top with crushed praline, caramel drizzle, or toasted nuts.

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❄️ Storage Instructions

• Store in an airtight container in the freezer.

• Best enjoyed within 2 weeks for optimal taste and texture.

• Allow to sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before scooping.

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💬 Final Thoughts

This Butterscotch Ice Cream Recipe offers a perfect balance of sweetness, creaminess, and a nostalgic butterscotch flavor that brings comfort in every bite. Whether you churn it traditionally or go the no-churn route, it’s a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s both elegant and fun. With real ingredients and a flavor that’s hard to find in store-bought versions, making this treat at home is totally worth the effort.