Indulge in the rich and creamy decadence of Low Sodium Salted Caramel Crunch Ice Cream, where sweet meets salty in a perfectly balanced dessert. This recipe transforms the classic salted caramel treat into a healthier option by incorporating low-sodium pretzels and pecans for that irresistible crunch. A luscious homemade caramel sauce, made from brown sugar and unsalted butter, is thickened with cornstarch for a silky texture, then blended with churned heavy cream and whole milk to create the ice cream base. The addition of vanilla extract enhances the sweetness, while a pinch of sea salt delivers just the right amount of savory contrast. Ideal for summer gatherings or a touch of indulgence any time of year, this recipe is proof that flavor-packed desserts can be kinder to your diet. Treat yourself to this homemade classic, crafted with care for a low-sodium dessert that satisfies every craving!
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter.
Add both the granulated sugar and brown sugar, stirring until they dissolve and start to caramelize. Be careful not to burn the mixture.
Reduce the heat to low and slowly add the heavy cream. Stir constantly to combine without curdling.
Once the cream is incorporated, add the vanilla extract and stir well.
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and cold water to form a slurry. Add this slurry to the caramel mixture.
Continue to stir the mixture over low heat until it thickens slightly.
Remove from heat and let it cool completely.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled caramel mixture with the whole milk.
Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer's instructions.
While the ice cream is churning, coarsely chop the low sodium pretzels and pecans.
Five minutes before the ice cream finishes, add the chopped pretzels, pecans, and sea salt to the churn.
Once the churning is complete, transfer the ice cream into an airtight container and let it freeze for at least 2 hours or until firm.
Serve and enjoy your low sodium salted caramel crunch ice cream!
Calories |
3954 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 254.3 g | 326% | |
| Saturated Fat | 131.6 g | 658% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 11.1 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 633 mg | 211% | |
| Sodium | 1694 mg | 74% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 362.7 g | 132% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 9.9 g | 35% | |
| Total Sugars | 240.1 g | ||
| Protein | 23.0 g | 46% | |
| Vitamin D | 2.7 mcg | 13% | |
| Calcium | 460 mg | 35% | |
| Iron | 7.8 mg | 43% | |
| Potassium | 873 mg | 19% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.