Frozen Treats

Maple Walnut Ice Cream

Name: Maple Walnut Ice Cream
Prep time: 30 min
Total time: 270 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups heavy cream; 1 cup whole milk; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup pure Canadian maple syrup; 1/2 cup chopped walnuts; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/4 tsp fine salt; 3 large egg yolks; 1 tbsp cornstarch; 1 cup chopped fresh walnuts for garnish

By Kaia Jardine · June 19, 2026 · Frozen Treats

Prep30 min

Cook0 min

Total270 min

Serves6

There's something special about a cold scoop of ice cream on a warm summer day. As a home cook and founder of Secretsauce Recipes, I've always been fascinated by the art of creating the perfect scoop. For me, that perfect scoop is all about balance - a harmony of flavors, textures, and temperatures that come together to create a truly unforgettable experience. That's why I'm so excited to share my recipe for Maple Walnut Ice Cream, a delicious and easy-to-make dessert that's sure to become a favorite in your household.

As a trained pastry cook turned home-kitchen teacher, I've had the opportunity to experiment with a wide range of ingredients and techniques. But when it comes to ice cream, I always come back to the classics. There's something about the combination of creamy texture, rich flavor, and satisfying crunch that just can't be beat. And with this recipe, I've taken that classic combination to the next level by incorporating the deep, velvety flavor of pure Canadian maple syrup and the satisfying crunch of toasted walnuts.

So what makes this recipe so special? For starters, it's incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and some basic kitchen equipment, you can create a delicious and unique ice cream flavor that's sure to impress your friends and family. And because it's made from scratch, you can control the quality of the ingredients and the level of sweetness to your taste.

But what really sets this recipe apart is the attention to detail and the emphasis on technique. From the careful tempering of the eggs to the precise control of the churning process, every step is designed to help you create the perfect scoop. And with my expert guidance and tips, you'll be well on your way to becoming an ice cream master in no time.

So why not give it a try? With its rich, velvety texture and deep, satisfying flavor, this Maple Walnut Ice Cream is the perfect treat for any time of year. And with my easy-to-follow recipe and expert tips, you'll be able to create it with confidence and ease. So go ahead, indulge in the sweet life, and let the creamy goodness of this ice cream transport you to a world of pure bliss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients and some basic kitchen equipment.
The combination of maple syrup and toasted walnuts creates a unique and delicious flavor that's sure to impress your friends and family.
By making it from scratch, you can control the quality of the ingredients and the level of sweetness to your taste.
The attention to detail and emphasis on technique ensures that you'll create a smooth and creamy ice cream that's free from imperfections.
This recipe is perfect for any time of year, whether you're looking for a cool treat on a hot summer day or a sweet indulgence during the winter months.
With my expert guidance and tips, you'll be well on your way to becoming an ice cream master in no time.

Why This Recipe Works

So what makes this recipe work so well? For starters, it's all about the balance of flavors. The deep, rich flavor of the maple syrup is perfectly complemented by the satisfying crunch of the toasted walnuts, creating a delightful harmony of textures and tastes. And with the careful tempering of the eggs and the precise control of the churning process, you can create a smooth and creamy ice cream that's sure to impress.

But it's not just about the ingredients - it's also about the technique. By carefully controlling the temperature and texture of the mixture, you can create a smooth and creamy ice cream that's free from ice crystals and other imperfections. And with the addition of a little bit of salt, you can bring out the flavors of the other ingredients and create a truly balanced taste experience.

Of course, the key to any great ice cream recipe is the quality of the ingredients. That's why I always use the finest ingredients I can find, from the pure Canadian maple syrup to the fresh and crunchy walnuts. And by taking the time to carefully toast the walnuts and temper the eggs, you can create a truly exceptional ice cream that's sure to delight even the most discerning palate.

So why not give it a try? With its perfect balance of flavors and textures, this Maple Walnut Ice Cream is the perfect treat for any time of year. And with my expert guidance and tips, you'll be well on your way to creating a truly unforgettable dessert experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to making great ice cream, the quality of the ingredients is paramount. That's why I've carefully selected each ingredient in this recipe to ensure that it's not only delicious but also easy to find and work with. From the pure Canadian maple syrup to the fresh and crunchy walnuts, every ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the perfect scoop.

So what should you look for when shopping for these ingredients? For the maple syrup, I recommend choosing a high-quality, pure Canadian syrup that's free from additives and preservatives. And for the walnuts, look for fresh and crunchy nuts that are free from rancidity and other imperfections. With these ingredients and a few basic kitchen staples, you'll be well on your way to creating a truly unforgettable ice cream experience.

2 cups heavy creamHeavy cream is essential for creating a rich and creamy ice cream. Look for a high-quality cream that's free from additives and preservatives, and make sure to chill it in the refrigerator before using it in the recipe.
1 cup whole milkWhole milk adds a touch of sweetness and creaminess to the ice cream, and helps to balance out the flavor of the maple syrup. Choose a high-quality milk that's free from additives and preservatives, and make sure to chill it in the refrigerator before using it in the recipe.
1/2 cup granulated sugarGranulated sugar helps to balance out the flavor of the maple syrup and adds a touch of sweetness to the ice cream. Choose a high-quality sugar that's free from additives and preservatives, and make sure to use it in the correct quantity to avoid an overly sweet ice cream.
1/4 cup pure Canadian maple syrupPure Canadian maple syrup is the star of this recipe, adding a deep and rich flavor to the ice cream. Choose a high-quality syrup that's free from additives and preservatives, and make sure to use it in the correct quantity to avoid an overly sweet ice cream.
1/2 cup chopped walnutsChopped walnuts add a satisfying crunch to the ice cream, and help to balance out the flavor of the maple syrup. Choose fresh and crunchy walnuts that are free from rancidity and other imperfections, and make sure to toast them in the oven before using them in the recipe.
1 tsp vanilla extractVanilla extract adds a touch of warmth and depth to the ice cream, and helps to balance out the flavor of the maple syrup. Choose a high-quality extract that's free from additives and preservatives, and make sure to use it in the correct quantity to avoid an overly strong flavor.
1/4 tsp fine saltFine salt helps to bring out the flavors of the other ingredients, and adds a touch of balance to the ice cream. Choose a high-quality salt that's free from additives and preservatives, and make sure to use it in the correct quantity to avoid an overly salty ice cream.
3 large egg yolksEgg yolks are essential for creating a smooth and creamy ice cream, and help to add richness and depth to the flavor. Choose high-quality eggs that are free from additives and preservatives, and make sure to temper them carefully to avoid scrambling the eggs.
1 tbsp cornstarchCornstarch helps to thicken the ice cream and add a touch of texture, and is essential for creating a smooth and creamy scoop. Choose a high-quality cornstarch that's free from additives and preservatives, and make sure to use it in the correct quantity to avoid an overly thick ice cream.
1 cup chopped fresh walnuts for garnishChopped fresh walnuts add a satisfying crunch and a touch of freshness to the finished ice cream, and help to balance out the flavor of the maple syrup. Choose fresh and crunchy walnuts that are free from rancidity and other imperfections, and make sure to chop them just before using them in the recipe.

Equipment You’ll Need

Medium saucepanHand mixer or whisk1-quart ice cream makerInstant-read thermometer9x13 inch baking dishFine-mesh strainerWhisk

How to Make Maple Walnut Ice Cream

1
In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, and pure Canadian maple syrup. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and cornstarch. Temper the egg yolks by slowly pouring the warm cream mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly.
3
Return the saucepan to the heat and cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
4
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and fine salt. Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then cover it and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5
Once the mixture is chilled, pour it into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer's instructions.
6
While the ice cream is churning, toast the chopped walnuts in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly browned. Let the walnuts cool completely.
7
Once the ice cream is finished churning, stir in the toasted walnuts and transfer the ice cream to an airtight container. Cover the container and freeze the ice cream for at least 2 hours to set.
8
Before serving, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to soften. Scoop the ice cream into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh walnuts.
9
Serve the ice cream immediately, or store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 days.
10
To make ahead, prepare the ice cream mixture and churn it in the ice cream maker, then transfer it to an airtight container and freeze it for up to 2 weeks. Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to soften before serving.
11
If you don't have an ice cream maker, you can also freeze the ice cream mixture in a 9x13 inch baking dish, stirring it every 30 minutes until it's frozen solid. This will take about 2-3 hours, depending on your freezer.
12
To toast the walnuts, preheat your oven to 350°F. Spread the walnuts in a single layer on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly browned. Let the walnuts cool completely before using them in the recipe.
13
To temper the egg yolks, slowly pour the warm cream mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly. This will help to prevent the eggs from scrambling and will create a smooth and creamy ice cream.

Expert Tips

Make sure to temper the egg yolks carefully to avoid scrambling the eggs.
Use high-quality ingredients, including pure Canadian maple syrup and fresh and crunchy walnuts.
Don't over-churn the ice cream, as this can create a grainy or icy texture.
Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to soften before serving.
Experiment with different flavor combinations, such as adding a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the ice cream.
Consider using a ice cream maker with a built-in freezer, as this can help to create a smoother and creamier ice cream.
If you don't have an ice cream maker, you can also freeze the ice cream mixture in a 9x13 inch baking dish and stir it every 30 minutes until it's frozen solid.
To ensure the ice cream is smooth and creamy, make sure to chill the mixture thoroughly before churning it.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not tempering the egg yolks carefully, which can result in a grainy or icy texture.
Using low-quality ingredients, which can affect the flavor and texture of the ice cream.
Over-churning the ice cream, which can create a grainy or icy texture.
Not letting the ice cream sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to soften before serving, which can result in a hard or icy texture.
Not toasting the walnuts before using them in the recipe, which can result in a lack of flavor and texture.
Not using a high-quality ice cream maker, which can affect the texture and consistency of the ice cream.

Variations and Substitutions

Add a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the ice cream for a unique and delicious flavor combination.
Use different types of nuts, such as almonds or pecans, for a different texture and flavor.
Add a splash of liqueur, such as bourbon or rum, to the ice cream for a grown-up twist.
Use different types of milk, such as almond or soy milk, for a non-dairy version of the ice cream.
Add a handful of chocolate chips or chocolate shavings to the ice cream for a decadent and delicious treat.
Use different types of sugar, such as honey or agave nectar, for a unique and delicious flavor combination.
Add a scoop of your favorite ice cream to a milkshake or smoothie for a quick and easy dessert.

What to Serve With Maple Walnut Ice Cream

This Maple Walnut Ice Cream is perfect for serving on its own, or as a topping for your favorite desserts. Try pairing it with a slice of warm apple pie, a handful of fresh berries, or a scoop of your favorite cake or brownies.

For a unique and delicious dessert, consider pairing the ice cream with a drizzle of caramel sauce, a sprinkle of sea salt, or a handful of chopped nuts. You could also try pairing it with a scoop of your favorite ice cream, such as chocolate or strawberry, for a fun and creative dessert combination.

Warm apple pieFresh berriesChocolate cakeBrowniesCaramel sauceSea salt

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

To store the ice cream, transfer it to an airtight container and freeze it for up to 3 days. If you want to make ahead, you can prepare the ice cream mixture and churn it in the ice cream maker, then transfer it to an airtight container and freeze it for up to 2 weeks.

When you're ready to serve the ice cream, let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to soften. Scoop the ice cream into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh walnuts or your favorite toppings.

To freeze the ice cream, transfer it to an airtight container and place it in the freezer. Every 30 minutes, remove the container from the freezer and stir the ice cream with a fork to break up any ice crystals that have formed. This will help to create a smooth and creamy texture.

Alternatively, you can also freeze the ice cream mixture in a 9x13 inch baking dish, stirring it every 30 minutes until it's frozen solid. This will take about 2-3 hours, depending on your freezer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of maple syrup should I use?

Look for pure Canadian maple syrup that's free from additives and preservatives. This will give your ice cream the best flavor and texture.

Can I use a different type of nut?

Yes, you can use different types of nuts, such as almonds or pecans, for a different texture and flavor. Just be sure to toast them in the oven before using them in the recipe.

How long does it take to churn the ice cream?

The churning time will depend on the type of ice cream maker you're using. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the best results.

Can I make this recipe without an ice cream maker?

Yes, you can freeze the ice cream mixture in a 9x13 inch baking dish, stirring it every 30 minutes until it's frozen solid. This will take about 2-3 hours, depending on your freezer.

How long can I store the ice cream?

You can store the ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 days. If you want to make ahead, you can prepare the ice cream mixture and churn it in the ice cream maker, then transfer it to an airtight container and freeze it for up to 2 weeks.

What's the best way to serve the ice cream?

Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to soften before serving. Scoop the ice cream into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh walnuts or your favorite toppings.

Can I add other ingredients to the ice cream?

Yes, you can add other ingredients, such as chocolate chips or fruit, to the ice cream for a unique and delicious flavor combination. Just be sure to follow the recipe and use high-quality ingredients for the best results.

How do I prevent the ice cream from becoming too hard?

To prevent the ice cream from becoming too hard, make sure to let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to soften before serving. You can also try adding a splash of liqueur, such as bourbon or rum, to the ice cream to help keep it smooth and creamy.

The Full Recipe

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