Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is a moist and delicious Southern treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Loaded with crunchy pecans and a rich, sweet flavor, this quick bread is easy to make and full of comforting tastes that remind you of warm summer days in Alabama. The buttery pecans mixed with the dense, cake-like texture make this bread a perfect choice for breakfast, brunch, or a dessert served with a dollop of whipped cream. It’s sure to become a family favorite!
Table of Contents
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs lightly. Add the melted butter and vanilla extract, and whisk until combined.
- Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. Fold in the chopped pecans until evenly distributed.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the pecan bread to cool completely in the pan before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature. It pairs well with coffee or tea, and you can add a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Tips for Perfect Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread
- Do Not Overmix: Mix the wet and dry ingredients until just combined to keep the bread tender. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
- Use Fresh Pecans: Fresh pecans provide the best flavor and texture. Lightly toasting the pecans before adding them to the batter can enhance their flavor.
- Line the Pan: Use parchment paper to line the baking dish for easy removal and clean slices.
Recipe Variations
- Coconut Pecan Bread: Add 1/2 cup of shredded coconut to the batter for a tropical twist.
- Chocolate Chip Pecan Bread: Fold in 1/2 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips for a richer, more decadent version.
- Spiced Pecan Bread: Add 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg to the batter for a warm, spiced flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I use dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar?
A: Yes! Dark brown sugar will add a deeper, more caramel-like flavor to the bread.
Q: How do I store leftover pecan bread?
A: Store leftover pecan bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag.
Q: Can I make this bread ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread can be made a day ahead and stored at room temperature or refrigerated. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together.
Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is a classic Southern delight that combines the nutty goodness of pecans with a rich, sweet bread. It’s simple to make and perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a brunch, having friends over for coffee, or just want a comforting treat for yourself. Try this recipe, and enjoy the warm, buttery flavors of Alabama in every bite!