Kentucky

Bourbon Ball Ice Cream

The Bluegrass State's famous confection becomes a decadent frozen dessert. Rich bourbon-infused custard is studded with handmade chocolate bourbon balls and toasted pecans, creating a Derby Day-worthy treat that celebrates Kentucky's finest traditions.

45 min churn time 8 servings Advanced Contains Alcohol
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 brown sugar
5 large egg yolks
1/4 cup Kentucky bourbon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Bourbon Balls:

1 cup crushed vanilla wafers
1 cup powdered sugar
1/4 cup cocoa powder
1/2 cup chopped pecans
2 tablespoons bourbon
2 tablespoons corn syrup

Instructions

1
Make bourbon balls: Mix wafer crumbs, powdered sugar, cocoa, and pecans. Add bourbon and corn syrup. Roll into small balls and refrigerate until firm, at least 2 hours.
2
Toast additional pecans in a dry skillet until fragrant, about 4 minutes. Chop and set aside.
3
In a heavy saucepan, combine cream, milk, and half the brown sugar. Heat until steaming.
4
Whisk egg yolks with remaining sugar and salt until pale. Slowly temper with the hot cream mixture.
5
Return to saucepan and cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until custard reaches 170-175 degrees F.
6
Strain custard, stir in bourbon and vanilla. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
7
Pour chilled custard into your ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer's instructions, about 25-30 minutes.
8
Cut bourbon balls in half. During the last 5 minutes of churning, add bourbon ball pieces and toasted pecans.
9
Transfer to a freezer container. Freeze for at least 4 hours until firm.
10
Let sit 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with extra bourbon balls and pecans.

Tips for Perfect Bourbon Ball Ice Cream

Kentucky Bourbon

Use a quality Kentucky straight bourbon like Maker's Mark, Woodford Reserve, or Buffalo Trace for authentic flavor.

Bourbon Ball Texture

Cut the bourbon balls small so they freeze properly. Larger pieces may become too hard in the frozen ice cream.

Derby Day Tradition

Bourbon balls are a Kentucky Derby tradition since the 1930s. Make this for your Derby party!

Alcohol Note

The alcohol doesn't fully cook off, keeping the ice cream softer. Adjust bourbon to taste.

Store-Bought Option

Short on time? Use store-bought bourbon balls from a Kentucky chocolatier like Ruth Hunt.

Serving Suggestion

Serve in a mint julep cup for the ultimate Kentucky Derby experience!