Description: This Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is a delightful treat, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet afternoon snack. This moist and flavorful bread is studded with crunchy pecans and offers a satisfying blend of sweet and nutty notes. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, this pecan bread is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its rich, buttery flavor and comforting aroma make it an irresistible addition to any gathering. Whether served warm or at room temperature, this classic recipe brings the taste of Southern comfort right to your kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil (canola or vegetable blend works well)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Ensuring the oven is properly preheated is crucial for even baking, which will result in a perfectly golden-brown loaf. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan thoroughly. I recommend using a baking spray that contains flour for even better release, or lining the pan with parchment paper for super easy cleanup. This prevents the bread from sticking to the pan, making it easier to remove and slice after baking.
Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the light brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vegetable oil until thoroughly combined. The sugars should be well incorporated into the oil to create a smooth, even mixture. This step is essential for creating a moist and evenly sweetened bread. Whisking thoroughly ensures no clumps of sugar remain, leading to a better texture in the final product.
Step 3: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Ensure that each egg is fully incorporated into the sugar and oil mixture before adding the next. This process is important for achieving a smooth batter and preventing the eggs from curdling. Mixing well after each egg helps to emulsify the ingredients, resulting in a more tender and cohesive bread.
Step 4: Stir in the vanilla extract. The vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor profile of the bread, adding a touch of warmth and sweetness. Use a high-quality vanilla extract for the best results. It complements the nutty flavor of the pecans and adds depth to the sweetness of the sugars.
Step 5: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisking ensures that the dry ingredients are evenly distributed, preventing clumps of baking powder and ensuring a uniform rise in the bread. The baking powder acts as a leavening agent, while the salt enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
Step 6: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which can result in a tough bread. Mix until the dry ingredients are barely incorporated. A few streaks of flour are okay at this stage.
Step 7: Fold in the chopped pecans. Gently fold the pecans into the batter until they are evenly distributed. Toasting the pecans beforehand (see “Tips” below) adds a wonderful depth of flavor and enhances their nutty aroma. Ensure they are evenly mixed throughout the batter for a consistent pecan presence in every slice.
Step 8: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Use a spatula to ensure the batter is evenly distributed in the pan. This ensures the bread bakes evenly and doesn’t have thick or thin spots.
Step 9: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Start checking the bread around 30 minutes. If the toothpick comes out with wet batter, continue baking for a few more minutes and check again. The bread should be golden brown on top and slightly pulling away from the sides of the pan.
Step 10: Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents the bread from breaking apart when removing it from the pan. Cooling it on a wire rack allows air to circulate, preventing the bottom from becoming soggy.
Step 11: Slice the bread into squares and serve warm or at room temperature. This bread is delicious served warm with a pat of butter or a dollop of whipped cream. It can also be enjoyed at room temperature as a snack or dessert.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
This Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience. The combination of the rich, buttery flavors with the satisfying crunch of pecans creates a delightful sensory experience. It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort and common pantry ingredients. The comforting aroma that fills your kitchen while it bakes is simply irresistible. This bread is incredibly versatile – perfect for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or a simple afternoon treat. It’s also a wonderful gift for friends and family. The recipe is easily customizable; you can add chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or even a hint of cinnamon to suit your taste. But above all, you will love the smiles and compliments you receive when you share this delicious bread. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings people together.
COOKING Rating:
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey.
- Enjoy it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
- Pair it with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack.
- Toast a slice and spread it with cream cheese for a delightful breakfast.
- Drizzle with a simple powdered sugar glaze for added sweetness and visual appeal.
- Serve alongside a bowl of fresh fruit for a balanced breakfast or brunch.
- Cut into smaller squares and serve as part of a dessert platter for gatherings.
Tips:
- Toast the pecans: Toasting the pecans before adding them to the batter intensifies their flavor and adds a delightful crunch. Spread the chopped pecans on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly toasted and fragrant. Allow them to cool before adding to the batter.
- Don’t overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to a tough bread. Mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined, and then gently fold in the pecans.
- Check for doneness: Use a toothpick to check for doneness. If the toothpick comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the bread is done.
- Cool completely: Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing and serving. This prevents it from crumbling and allows the flavors to fully develop.
- Add spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to the dry ingredients for a warm, aromatic flavor.
- Add chocolate chips: Fold in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips for an extra-decadent treat.
- Substitute nuts: Walnuts, almonds, or macadamia nuts can be substituted for pecans.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: 40-45 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Approximate, per serving/square)
- Calories: 290 kcal
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 120mg
Conclusion:
This Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is a simple yet satisfying recipe that is sure to become a family favorite. Its moist texture, nutty flavor, and ease of preparation make it a winner every time. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a sweet treat, this bread is the perfect choice. Enjoy the process of creating this delightful bread and savor the delicious results.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q1: Can I use a different type of sugar?
A1: Yes, you can adjust the sugar content to your preference. For a less sweet bread, reduce the granulated sugar slightly. You can also substitute maple syrup or honey for some of the sugar, but be aware that this will affect the texture and moisture content of the bread. Using different types of sugar will impart unique flavors to the bread, so feel free to experiment and find what you like best!
Q2: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A2: Yes, this recipe can be adapted to be gluten-free. Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend as a direct substitute for the all-purpose flour. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum, which acts as a binder in gluten-free baking. The texture might be slightly different, potentially a little denser, but it will still be delicious.
Q3: How do I store the pecan bread?
A3: Store the pecan bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw it completely at room temperature before serving.
Q4: Can I use salted butter instead of vegetable oil?
A4: While this recipe is designed for vegetable oil to ensure a moist crumb, you can technically substitute melted butter, but it will change the texture and flavor profile. Make sure to use unsalted butter. You may need to add a tablespoon or two of milk to reach the correct batter consistency. Be mindful that butter can make the bread a bit denser.
Q5: How do I prevent the pecans from sinking to the bottom of the bread?
A5: To prevent the pecans from sinking, toss them with a tablespoon of flour before folding them into the batter. This helps to give them some grip and keeps them suspended throughout the bread. Also, be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can also cause the pecans to sink.
