The Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe is a soul-warming treat that captures the essence of Southern comfort in every bite. Imagine a moist, tender loaf brimming with the rich nuttiness of pecans and the perfect balance of sweet brown and granulated sugars. This classic recipe blends simple pantry staples to create a bread that’s just as delightful for breakfast as it is for afternoon tea or a cozy dessert. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned hand, this loaf is sure to become a cherished favorite that you’ll want to share again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to making this delightful bread. Each item plays a vital role in bringing out its scrumptious taste, moist texture, and inviting golden color.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: The sturdy foundation that gives the bread its soft structure.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds a crisp sweetness that balances the richness of the pecans.
- 1 cup brown sugar: Provides deep molasses notes and extra moisture.
- 1 cup chopped pecans: For that signature Southern crunch and nutty flavor.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and contribute to a tender crumb.
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil: Ensures moistness and a soft crumb without heaviness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Lifts the flavor with a warm, fragrant note.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Gives the bread the gentle rise it needs.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- 1/4 cup milk: Adds moisture and softens the batter for perfect texture.
How to Make Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe
Step 1: Preparing Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to make sure your bread doesn’t stick and comes out with a beautiful crust ready for slicing.
Step 2: Mixing the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt. This careful blending ensures that every spoonful of batter will cook evenly and taste consistent from crust to crumb.
Step 3: Combining the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs thoroughly. Then stir in the vegetable oil, milk, and vanilla extract, mixing until the liquids form a smooth, unified mixture. This step is key for that tender softness you’ll love.
Step 4: Bringing It All Together
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir just until combined. Don’t overmix here! Gently fold in the chopped pecans, saving you from a dense loaf and ensuring every bite is studded with crunchy nuts.
Step 5: Baking Your Bread
Transfer the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The kitchen will soon be filled with the aroma that makes this Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe unforgettable.
Step 6: Optional Glaze
While the bread is still warm, you can drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk over the top. This adds a delicate sweetness and an inviting sheen that makes your bread irresistible.
How to Serve Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra chopped pecans on the glaze gives a lovely texture contrast and highlights the nutty theme. You can also add a light dusting of cinnamon or a smear of softened butter for extra indulgence.
Side Dishes
This bread pairs beautifully with fresh fruit like sliced apples or berries, tangy cream cheese spreads, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert twist. Each accompaniment complements the bread’s rich, buttery flavor perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your loaf sliced on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of honey, jams, or preserves. For a brunch setting, stack thick slices with whipped cream and toasted pecans to create a stunning centerpiece everyone will admire.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled completely, wrap your Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe tightly in plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container to maintain its moisture. Stored this way, it stays fresh at room temperature for up to three days.
Freezing
This bread freezes beautifully. Slice before freezing for easy grab-and-go portions, and wrap each slice in plastic wrap followed by foil or a freezer bag to protect against freezer burn. It will keep well for up to three months.
Reheating
Warm slices in a toaster oven or microwave for a few seconds to bring back that just-baked feeling. Top with a bit of butter or melt some cream cheese on top for an extra luscious bite that tastes freshly baked every time.
FAQs
Can I substitute the vegetable oil with butter?
Absolutely! Using melted butter instead of vegetable oil will add a richer flavor, but keep the quantity the same to maintain the moist texture that makes this bread so delightful.
Are there any alternatives if I don’t have pecans?
You can swap pecans for walnuts or almonds if needed, though pecans provide that signature Southern flair that makes this bread special. Each nut will give a slightly different flavor and crunch.
Can I make this bread vegan?
To make it vegan, use flax eggs (ground flaxseed mixed with water) instead of eggs, plant-based milk, and a neutral oil. The texture might be a touch different, but it will still be delicious.
How long does the Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread take to bake?
The baking time is typically 50 to 60 minutes at 350°F (175°C), but it’s best to check doneness with a toothpick inserted in the center. If it comes out clean, your bread is ready!
Can I add spices to the recipe?
Definitely! Adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg can bring wonderful warmth and depth of flavor that complements the pecans perfectly.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about the Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe that makes it a joy to bake and share. With straightforward ingredients and a straightforward process, this bread effortlessly delivers rich flavor and tender crumb. I encourage you to try it soon—it’s the kind of homemade goodness that brings smiles and warm memories with every slice.
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Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (about 12 slices)
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is a moist and flavorful quick bread featuring a delightful combination of all-purpose flour, both white and brown sugars, and crunchy chopped pecans. This easy-to-make loaf is enriched with eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract, delivering a classic Southern treat perfect for breakfast or dessert. The bread is baked to golden perfection and can be topped with a simple glaze for added sweetness and moisture.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup milk
Optional Glaze
- Powdered sugar (quantity as needed)
- Milk (quantity as needed)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan thoroughly or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt until they are well combined and free of lumps.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the two large eggs until blended. Then add the vegetable oil, milk, and vanilla extract, stirring until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently and just enough to combine them, avoiding overmixing to keep the bread tender. Next, fold in the chopped pecans carefully to distribute them evenly throughout the batter.
- Pour Batter and Bake: Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top with a spatula for even baking. Place the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. Confirm doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Prepare Optional Glaze and Cool: While the bread is still warm, prepare a simple glaze by mixing powdered sugar and milk until smooth and slightly runny. Drizzle the glaze over the top of the loaf and allow it to soak in for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Do not overmix the batter to ensure the bread stays tender and fluffy.
- The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven; start checking at 50 minutes.
- Chopped pecans can be toasted beforehand to enhance their flavor if desired.
- The glaze is optional but adds a lovely sweetness and moisture to the bread.
- Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
