Alabama Pecanbread Recipe

Introduction

Alabama Pecanbread is a delightful Southern treat that blends the richness of pecans with a sweet, cake-like texture. This recipe is simple but produces a moist, nutty dessert that my family absolutely loved. With its combination of brown sugar, vanilla, and finely chopped pecans, this pecanbread became an instant favorite. It’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy afternoon snack, and the aroma of pecans filling the kitchen while it bakes is simply irresistible.

Ingredients

• 2 cups pecans, finely chopped
• 1 1/2 cups self-rising flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 4 large eggs, beaten
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, stir together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, beaten eggs, and vegetable oil until fully combined.
3. Incorporate the Dry Ingredients: Add the self-rising flour and salt to the wet mixture and stir until well combined. Stir in the vanilla extract, then gently fold in the chopped pecans.
4. Bake the Pecanbread: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean.
5. Cool and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Nutrition Facts
Servings: 12
Calories per serving: Approximately 320 kcal

Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: 40-45 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for extra richness.
• Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
• Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
• Serve alongside coffee or tea for a cozy treat.
• Pack slices in lunch boxes or for a picnic dessert.

Additional Tips

1. Use fresh, high-quality pecans for the best flavor.
2. Let the pecanbread cool slightly before slicing to avoid crumbling.
3. Try lining the baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal.
4. If you prefer a less sweet pecanbread, reduce the granulated sugar by 1/4 cup.
5. For added texture, use coarsely chopped pecans instead of finely chopped.

Recipe Variations

• Spiced Pecanbread: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg to the batter for a warm, spiced flavor.
• Chocolate Pecanbread: Fold in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips for a chocolatey twist.
• Coconut Pecanbread: Add 1/4 cup shredded coconut for a subtle tropical flavor.
• Lemon Pecanbread: Add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest for a hint of citrus.
• Maple Pecanbread: Substitute 1/4 cup of the brown sugar with maple syrup for a maple flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• With Beverages: Serve with coffee, tea, or a cold glass of milk.
• As a Breakfast Treat: Pair with a morning coffee for a quick breakfast bite.
• For a Dessert Plate: Serve alongside other Southern desserts like pecan pie or peach cobbler.
• Holiday Tables: This makes a beautiful addition to Thanksgiving or Christmas spreads.
• Brunch Option: Include slices of Alabama Pecanbread in a brunch buffet.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Allow the pecanbread to cool completely, then slice and wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap. Store in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.
• Refrigerating: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
• Reheating: Reheat slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, or enjoy them at room temperature.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use regular flour instead of self-rising flour?
   Yes, use regular flour and add 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder and a pinch of salt to replace self-rising flour.
2. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
   Substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, along with baking powder, for a gluten-free option.
3. What can I use instead of vegetable oil?
   You can use melted butter or a neutral oil like canola for a similar texture.
4. Can I use walnuts instead of pecans?
   Yes, walnuts are a suitable alternative, though the flavor will vary slightly.
5. Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
   Yes, this pecanbread recipe is vegetarian.
6. Can I add chocolate chips?
   Absolutely! Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips for a richer dessert.
7. How do I prevent the pecanbread from becoming too dense?
   Avoid overmixing once you add the flour. Mix just until combined.
8. Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
   Yes, reducing each type of sugar by 1/4 cup will make it less sweet without affecting texture much.
9. What’s the best way to chop pecans?
   Use a food processor for finely chopped pecans, or chop them by hand for a coarser texture.
10. Can I add a glaze?
    A simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk would be delicious drizzled over the top.

Conclusion

Alabama Pecanbread is a timeless Southern dessert that’s easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. With its nutty richness and soft texture, this pecanbread is a must-try for anyone who loves pecans. Enjoy it with family and friends, or serve it at gatherings—it’s sure to become a beloved recipe in your collection!

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