Alabama

Lane Cake Ice Cream

A frozen tribute to Alabama's legendary Lane Cake, this luxurious ice cream features bourbon-soaked raisins, toasted pecans, and a rich custard base. The perfect Southern indulgence that captures the essence of the Heart of Dixie.

45 min churn time 8 servings Intermediate Dairy-based
Jump to Ingredients

Equipment Needed

🍦
Ice Cream Maker
🥣
Large Mixing Bowl
🍳
Heavy Saucepan
🥄
Whisk
🧊
Freezer Container
🌡️
Thermometer

Ingredients

For the Base:

2 cups heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
3/4 cup granulated sugar
6 large egg yolks
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the Mix-ins:

1/2 cup golden raisins
1/4 cup bourbon
3/4 cup toasted pecans, chopped
1/4 cup sweetened shredded coconut

Instructions

1
Soak the golden raisins in bourbon for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results. The raisins will plump up and absorb the bourbon flavor.
2
Toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant. Let cool, then chop roughly.
3
In a heavy saucepan, combine the heavy cream, milk, and half of the sugar. Heat over medium heat until steaming and just beginning to bubble at the edges.
4
In a large bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, remaining sugar, and salt until pale and slightly thickened, about 2 minutes.
5
Slowly pour the hot cream mixture into the egg yolks while whisking constantly to temper the eggs. Return the mixture to the saucepan.
6
Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, until the custard reaches 170-175 degrees F and coats the back of the spoon.
7
Strain the custard through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl. Stir in the vanilla extract. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
8
Pour the chilled custard into your ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer's instructions, about 25-30 minutes.
9
During the last 5 minutes of churning, add the bourbon-soaked raisins (drained), toasted pecans, and shredded coconut.
10
Transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for at least 4 hours until firm. Let sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before scooping.

Tips for Perfect Lane Cake Ice Cream

Choose Quality Bourbon

Use a smooth, mid-range bourbon for soaking the raisins. The flavor will come through in the final ice cream.

Don't Skip the Straining

Straining the custard removes any accidentally cooked egg bits and ensures a silky-smooth texture.

Toast Those Pecans

Toasting the pecans brings out their natural oils and adds a deeper, nuttier flavor to the ice cream.

Patience with Chilling

Properly chilling the custard overnight results in a creamier texture and better churning.

Reserve Some Bourbon

Save a tablespoon of the bourbon soaking liquid to drizzle over the finished ice cream for an extra kick.

Storage Tips

Press plastic wrap directly onto the ice cream surface before sealing to prevent ice crystals from forming.