A rich, creamy ice cream pie filled with buttery toasted pecans, whipped topping, and a flaky crust. The perfect make-ahead dessert.

Servings: 8
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes (to toast pecans)
Freeze Time: 4–6 hours
Total Time: About 6 hours
Dietary Badges: Vegetarian

Ingredients (Checklist Style, With Measurements)

1 deep-dish pie crust, baked and cooled
1.5 cups chopped pecans (plus extra halves for topping)
3 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 quart vanilla ice cream, softened
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions (Concise Recipe Card Directions)

Bake and cool the pie crust.
Toast pecans in butter and brown sugar.
Spread half the pecans into the bottom of the crust.
Fill with softened vanilla ice cream.
Whip cream with powdered sugar and vanilla, then spread on top.
Add remaining pecans and freeze until firm.
Slice and serve directly from the freezer.

Notes: Softening ice cream slightly makes it easier to spread. A homemade or store-bought crust works fine. Keep frozen until serving.

Introduction

This recipe-first structure gives you instant access to everything you need before diving into the details. Frozen Butter Pecan Ice Cream Pie is one of those no-bake desserts that tastes like it took hours but comes together with minimal effort. The contrast of creamy vanilla ice cream, buttery pecans, and a flaky crust makes it unforgettable. I first made this pie on a hot summer day when turning on the oven felt impossible, and it has been a favorite ever since.

Step-by-Step Cooking Guide

1. Prepare the Crust

Bake a 9-inch deep-dish pie crust according to package or recipe instructions. Let it cool completely so the filling doesn’t melt into it.

Tip: A graham cracker crust also works if you prefer a softer, crumbly texture.

2. Toast the Pecans

In a skillet over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons butter and stir in 2 tablespoons brown sugar. Add 1.5 cups chopped pecans and cook 3–4 minutes until glossy and fragrant.

Tip: Keep stirring. Pecans can burn quickly once they start to caramelize.

3. Layer the Bottom

Sprinkle half the warm, buttered pecans across the bottom of the cooled crust. They’ll create a sweet, crunchy base.

4. Add the Ice Cream Layer

Scoop softened vanilla ice cream into the crust. Use a spatula to smooth it evenly.

Tip: Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 10–12 minutes before spreading.

5. Make the Whipped Topping

Whip together:

1 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Whip to medium peaks and spread over the ice cream layer.

Tip: Chill the bowl and beaters for best results.

6. Top With Pecans

Scatter the remaining toasted pecans on top. Add pecan halves for decoration if desired.

7. Freeze

Freeze the pie for 4–6 hours, or until completely firm. Overnight freezing gives the cleanest slices.

Tip: Cover loosely with plastic wrap so ice crystals don’t form on top.

Ingredient Details and Substitution Tips

Pie Crust:
A classic pastry crust gives this pie structure. You can substitute a graham cracker crust for a sweeter, softer alternative.

Pecans:
Use fresh pecans for best flavor. Walnuts or almonds can be substituted, but the pie’s signature flavor is best with pecans.

Brown Sugar and Butter:
This creates a quick, candied pecan effect. For a deeper caramel flavor, use dark brown sugar.

Vanilla Ice Cream:
Any premium brand works well. For variation, try butter pecan ice cream or caramel swirl.

Whipped Cream:
Homemade whipped cream tastes cleaner and lighter than store-bought, but stabilized whipped topping can be used for a firmer finish.

Equipment Alternatives:
If you don’t have a mixer, whip the cream by hand with a whisk. A glass pie dish freezes more evenly than metal, but either will work.

Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions

Flavor Variations:

Caramel Drizzle: Add 1/4 cup caramel sauce between ice cream and whipped cream.
Chocolate Pecan: Fold 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips into the ice cream.
Maple Pecan: Add 1 teaspoon maple extract to the whipped cream.

Dietary Variations:

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free crust.
Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free ice cream and coconut whipped topping, and toast pecans in dairy-free butter.

Serving Ideas:
Slice straight from the freezer using a warm knife. Serve with caramel sauce, hot fudge, or extra whipped cream.

Pairing Suggestions:
Serve with coffee, iced vanilla lattes, or a light dessert wine for a well-rounded finish.

Storage and Make-Ahead Information

Freezer Storage:
Keep tightly wrapped in plastic or foil. Stores well for up to 2 weeks.

Reheating:
No reheating needed. Serve directly from the freezer.

Make-Ahead:
This pie is designed for advance preparation. Make it 1–2 days ahead for events.

Shelf Life Notes:
After a week, pecans may soften slightly but flavor remains excellent.

Nutrition Facts (Approximate Per Slice)

Calories: 480
Carbohydrates: 36 g
Protein: 5 g
Fat: 36 g
Sodium: 180 mg
Allergens: Dairy, Tree Nuts, Gluten (unless using gluten-free crust)

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use store-bought whipped topping instead of homemade?
A: Yes. Use 2 cups of thawed whipped topping.

Q: Can I make this without nuts?
A: You can omit pecans, but the pie will lose its signature flavor. Add crushed cookies for texture.

Q: How do I slice it neatly?
A: Dip a sharp knife in hot water and wipe dry before each cut.

Q: Can I use low-fat ice cream?
A: You can, but the pie will not be as firm and creamy.

Q: Does this melt quickly?
A: It softens within 15 minutes at room temperature, so serve immediately after slicing.

Optional Story or Personal Notes

This pie became a hit in my kitchen after a family gathering where I needed something simple, cool, and decadent. The buttery pecans turned out to be the star, and from that day forward, this became my go-to frozen dessert for holidays, summer cookouts, and last-minute sweet cravings.

If you have a similar recipe or a twist you love, leave it in the comments. I enjoy seeing different versions readers come up with.

Call to Action

Make this Frozen Butter Pecan Ice Cream Pie for your next gathering and share your results. Leave a rating, ask questions, or post your variation so others can try it too.