Sweet Alabama Bread is a delightful and simple bread that’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or dessert. With a moist, tender crumb and a delicious cinnamon-sugar swirl, this bread is sure to become a favorite in your household. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of making Sweet Alabama Bread, provide helpful cooking notes, and offer variations to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.
Ingredients
For the Bread:
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup sour cream
For the Cinnamon-Sugar Swirl:
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Cream Butter and Sugar:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla:
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Mix in Dry Ingredients and Sour Cream:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the sour cream. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Step 2: Prepare the Cinnamon-Sugar Swirl
- Mix Brown Sugar and Cinnamon:
- In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and ground cinnamon.
Step 3: Assemble the Bread
- Layer the Batter and Cinnamon-Sugar:
- Spread half of the batter evenly in the prepared loaf pan.
- Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the batter.
- Spread the remaining batter over the cinnamon-sugar layer, then sprinkle the remaining cinnamon-sugar mixture on top.
- Swirl the Batter:
- Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the cinnamon-sugar mixture through the batter, creating a marbled effect.
Step 4: Bake the Bread
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool:
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 5: Serve
- Slice and Serve:
- Slice the Sweet Alabama Bread and serve it warm or at room temperature. Enjoy it on its own or with a spread of butter or cream cheese.
Cook Notes and Variations
Cook Notes:
- Butter: Make sure the butter is softened to ensure it creams well with the sugar.
- Swirling: Be gentle when swirling the cinnamon-sugar mixture to avoid mixing it too much into the batter.
Variations:
- Nutty Alabama Bread:
- Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to the batter for added texture and flavor.
- Chocolate Chip Version:
- Stir in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the batter for a chocolatey twist.
- Gluten-Free Version:
- Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make the bread gluten-free.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream in equal amounts for a similar texture and flavor.
2. How do I store the bread?
Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
3. Can I freeze this bread?
Yes, you can freeze the bread. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
4. What can I serve with Sweet Alabama Bread?
This bread is delicious on its own but can also be served with a spread of butter, cream cheese, or a drizzle of honey.
5. Can I make this bread ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the bread a day ahead. Store it in an airtight container and slice just before serving.
Sweet Alabama Bread is a delicious and simple treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With its moist, tender crumb and delightful cinnamon-sugar swirl, this bread is sure to become a favorite in your baking rotation. Whether you’re making it for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, this recipe is easy to follow and full of delicious flavors. Give this Sweet Alabama Bread recipe a try and enjoy a comforting homemade treat. Happy baking!