It's really worth seeking out the cane syrup for this recipe — it makes for a much more complex-flavored ice cream. Look for cane syrup that is labeled "100 percent pure;" some brands are cut with corn syrup. Cane syrup is available at some southern supermarkets and by mail order for Steen's (800-725-1654).

　　This recipe is an accompaniment for Peaches "Foster" with Cane Syrup Pecan Ice Cream.

　　Active time: 20 min Start to finish: 5 hr (includes freezing)

　　

Ingredients

Makes about 2 quarts

　　2/3 cup cane syrup, or 1/4 cup dark corn syrup mixed with 3/4 cup mild molasses(not robust or blackstrap)

　　1/4 cup sugar

　　2 teaspoons cornstarch

　　4 large eggs

　　2 cups whole milk

　　2 cups heavy cream

　　3/4 teaspoon vanilla

　　1 1/3 cup pecans (5 1/2 oz), coarsely chopped, toasted, and cooled

　　

Special Equipment

an instant-read thermometer; an ice cream maker

　　

Step 1

Whisk together cane syrup, sugar, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt in a large bowl, then add eggs, whisking until combined. Bring milk and cream just to a boil in a 4-quart heavy saucepan over moderately high heat, stirring occasionally, then add egg mixture in a stream, whisking constantly. Transfer custard to saucepan.

　　

Step 2

Cook custard over moderately low heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, until thick enough to coat back of spoon and registers 170°F on thermometer, 5 to 8 minutes (custard may look slightly curdled; do not let boil).

　　

Step 3

Immediately pour custard through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl, then stir in vanilla and cool, stirring occasionally. Chill custard, its surface covered with wax paper, until cold, at least 3 hours.

　　

Step 4

Freeze half of custard in ice cream maker until almost firm, then stir together ice cream and half of pecans in a large bowl. Transfer to an airtight container and put in freezer to harden. Repeat with remaining custard and pecans.

　　Cooks' notes:

　　To cool custard quickly after straining, set bowl in a larger bowl of ice and cold water and stir until chilled. Custard can be chilled up to 1 day. Ice cream keeps 5 days.