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Handwritten recipe card for Walnut Brittle Ice Cream
by: salvagedrecipes

Walnut Brittle Ice Cream

Walnut Brittle Ice Cream
Walnut Brittle Ice Cream is a classic mid-century American frozen dessert that combines a rich homemade custard base with crunchy walnut brittle for irresistible texture and flavor. Recipes like this became especially popular during the 1940s through the 1960s when homemade ice cream was a favorite centerpiece for family dinners, church socials, and holiday gatherings. Unlike churned ice cream, this version is partially frozen before whipped cream is folded in, creating a light, creamy consistency without requiring an ice cream freezer. The sweet caramelized walnut brittle adds buttery crunch to every bite, making it a memorable dessert that's both elegant and comforting. Its combination of homemade custard, airy whipped cream, and candy pieces gives it a luxurious texture that remains a nostalgic favorite.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Freezing time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 45 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 10
Calories 485 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb walnut brittle (chopped)
  • 4 eggs (separated)
  • 4 cups milk
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar (estimated from handwritten recipe)
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Custard

  • Separate the eggs.
  • Beat the egg yolks lightly.
  • Scald the milk.
  • Gradually stir the hot milk into the beaten egg yolks.

Step 2: Cook the Custard

  • Return the mixture to a double boiler.
  • Cook while stirring constantly until the custard coats the back of a spoon.

Step 3: Cool the Mixture

  • Remove from heat.
  • Fold in the chopped walnut brittle.
  • Allow the custard to cool completely.

Step 4: Beat the Egg Whites

  • Beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form.
  • Fold them gently into the cooled custard.

Step 5: Begin Freezing

  • Pour into freezer containers.
  • Freeze until the mixture begins to firm around the edges.

Step 6: Add the Whipped Cream

  • Whip the heavy cream until stiff.
  • Fold the whipped cream into the partially frozen mixture.

Step 7: Finish Freezing

  • Return to the freezer.
  • Freeze several hours or overnight until firm before serving.

Tips

  • Toast the walnut brittle lightly before adding for extra flavor.
  • Add a teaspoon of maple extract for a richer taste.
  • Mix in chopped toasted pecans instead of walnuts.
  • Fold in mini chocolate chips before the final freeze.
  • Add a drizzle of caramel sauce when serving.
  • Freeze overnight for the best texture.
  • Serve with warm chocolate sauce for an elegant dessert.
  • Garnish with additional crushed brittle.
  • Use homemade brittle for an even fresher flavor.

Nutrition

Calories: 485kcalCarbohydrates: 31gProtein: 9gFat: 37gSaturated Fat: 18gPolyunsaturated Fat: 6gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gTrans Fat: 0.5gCholesterol: 155mgSodium: 105mgPotassium: 275mgFiber: 1gSugar: 28gVitamin A: 950IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 185mgIron: 1.2mg
Keyword American recipe, creamy dessert, frozen dessert, holiday dessert, homemade ice cream, nostalgic food, vintage dessert, walnut brittle