Butter Pecan Ice Cream Dessert
A creamy, crunchy dessert featuring butter pecan ice cream layered over a buttery cracker crust, topped with whipped cream—perfect for gatherings and satisfying sweet tooth cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine crushed cracker crumbs and melted margarine.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 13 x 9 x 2 inch pan to form a crust.
- In a bowl, beat the pudding with milk until smooth.
- Add flaked coconut and softened butter pecan ice cream to the pudding mixture and blend well.
- Spread the ice cream mixture over the crust in the pan.
- Top with Cool Whip.
- Refrigerate until ready to serve; for best results, freeze before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra crunch, consider adding chopped pecans to the crust mixture. You can substitute the Town House crackers with graham crackers or digestive biscuits for a different flavor. If you prefer a lighter option, use reduced-fat margarine and light Cool Whip. Make sure the butter pecan ice cream is softened enough to mix easily, but not so soft that it becomes soupy.
Serving Suggestions
This dessert is perfect for summer gatherings or potlucks. Serve it alongside fresh fruit, like berries or sliced bananas, to add a refreshing contrast. Pair it with coffee or a dessert wine for a delightful end to any meal. It also pairs beautifully with Elda'S Oatmeal Cookies for a delightful dessert platter.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer to maintain its texture. To serve, let the dessert sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before slicing. If it has been frozen solid, you may need to leave it out longer to allow it to soften slightly for easier serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Butter Pecan Ice Cream Dessert contains roughly 1845 calories, with 12g protein, 96g carbohydrates, and 158g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (36% of the Daily Value), protein (23% of the Daily Value), and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1093mg per serving (48% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different flavor of ice cream?
Absolutely! While butter pecan is delicious, you can easily substitute it with other flavors like vanilla, caramel, or even chocolate for a varied taste experience. Just ensure the ice cream is of similar texture to maintain the overall consistency of the dessert.
How long can I keep this dessert in the freezer?
This dessert can be stored in the freezer for up to two weeks. However, for the best flavor and texture, it's recommended to consume it within a week. After that, the crust may become soggy or lose its crunchiness due to moisture absorption.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, this dessert is ideal for making ahead. You can prepare it a day or two in advance and keep it in the freezer until ready to serve. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for a short time before slicing to make serving easier.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).