Sweet Alabama Bread

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

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients:
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
5. 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

1. Mix Brown Sugar and Cinnamon:
   • In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and ground cinnamon.

Step 3: Assemble the Bread

1. 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.
2. 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

1. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
2. 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

1. 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!