Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread

If you’re craving something warm, sweet, and irresistibly nutty, then let me introduce you to Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread—a slice of Southern comfort that’s going to make your kitchen smell like heaven. Imagine soft, moist bread with crunchy pecans, a hint of vanilla, and a touch of sweetness. It’s the kind of bread you’d want to serve at brunch, pair with your afternoon coffee, or simply enjoy as a snack. This recipe is straight-up Southern hospitality in a loaf, and trust me, once you take that first bite, you won’t want to stop.

Why You’ll Love Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread

Here’s why this bread is a must-try:

• Moist & Delicious: This bread is wonderfully soft and moist, making it a perfect choice for breakfast or dessert. The pecans add the perfect crunchy contrast, creating a texture you’ll love.
• A Touch of Sweetness: It’s sweet without being overwhelming, thanks to a blend of brown sugar and vanilla. It strikes the perfect balance for a treat that’s comforting and not overly sugary.
• Pecan Perfection: The toasted pecans add a nutty richness that makes this bread feel extra special. It’s the star ingredient that really elevates this recipe.
• Simple & Quick: Despite its indulgent flavor, this bread is surprisingly easy to make, with simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry.
• Southern Classic: This bread has all the warmth and charm of Southern cooking—easy to make and perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Ingredients

Here’s what you need to make this decadent bread:

• All-Purpose Flour: The base for the soft, tender texture of this bread.
• Baking Powder: To give the bread that perfect rise and fluffiness.
• Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor.
• Eggs: The binding agents that help bring everything together and give the bread structure.
• Milk: Moisture and richness to make the bread soft and fluffy.
• Vanilla Extract: For that delightful, comforting aroma and flavor.
• Chopped Pecans: The star of the bread! They add crunch, richness, and a lovely nutty flavor.
• Butter: Adds richness and ensures the bread comes out moist and tender.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive right into making this sweet, nutty bread:

Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a loaf pan to ensure your bread comes out easily.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Set this mixture aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.

Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, brown sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until the sugar is fully dissolved and everything is well combined. Stir in the melted butter for that rich, moist texture.

Mix the Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bread dense.

Add the Pecans

Fold in the chopped pecans, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Bake the Bread

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. You’ll know it’s ready when the kitchen starts to smell incredible!

Cool & Serve

Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice it up and serve with a cup of coffee or tea.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 10
Calories per serving: 280
Total Fat: 15g
Sodium: 120mg
Total Carbohydrates: 33g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 16g
Protein: 4g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 55-60 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

How to Serve Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread

This bread is fantastic on its own, but here are a few ways to make it even more special:

• With Butter: Serve it warm with a pat of butter for extra richness. You can even drizzle it with a little honey for a sweet touch.
• With Coffee or Tea: Perfect for breakfast or afternoon tea. A cup of coffee or a warm chai tea pairs wonderfully with this bread.
• Topped with Whipped Cream: If you’re serving it as a dessert, top it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
• As a Gift: Wrap it up in a cute bread bag and give it to friends and family as a homemade gift.

Additional Tips

• Make it Sweeter: If you prefer a sweeter bread, you can add an extra tablespoon of brown sugar or drizzle a simple glaze over the top after baking.
• Pecans: Toast your pecans in a dry skillet for a few minutes to bring out their natural flavor before adding them to the batter.
• Storage: Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze slices for later use—just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
• Try Other Nuts: While pecans are the star here, you could swap them for walnuts or almonds if you prefer.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use a different type of nut?
A1: Absolutely! If you prefer walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts, feel free to swap them in for the pecans.

Q2: Can I make this bread ahead of time?
A2: Yes! This bread actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. Make it a day ahead for a stress-free treat.

Q3: Can I freeze Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread?
A3: Yes, you can! Wrap slices of the bread tightly in plastic wrap and foil and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight at room temperature before serving.

Q4: Can I add chocolate chips to this recipe?
A4: Oh, yes! Chocolate chips would be a delicious addition. Fold them in with the pecans for an extra indulgent treat.

Q5: Can I use a different type of sugar?
A5: You can substitute brown sugar with white sugar, but it won’t give the bread that deep, molasses-like flavor. You could also try maple syrup or honey for a different sweetness.

Q6: How do I store leftover bread?
A6: Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want it to last longer, freeze it for later enjoyment.

Q7: Can I make this bread gluten-free?
A7: Yes, you can! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make it gluten-free. Just ensure it has xanthan gum in it for the best texture.

Q8: Can I use margarine instead of butter?
A8: While you can, butter adds a richness that margarine doesn’t quite replicate. If you’re out of butter, margarine is a fine substitute, but the flavor may be slightly different.

Q9: Can I double the recipe?
A9: Absolutely! Just make sure to use two loaf pans and adjust the baking time slightly. Check for doneness with a toothpick before removing from the oven.

Q10: What should I do if my bread is too dry?
A10: If your bread comes out a bit dry, consider adding an extra tablespoon of milk or butter next time. You can also drizzle some simple syrup over the top to add moisture.

Conclusion

Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is everything you want in a bread—fluffy, moist, and full of nutty goodness. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re sharing it at a gathering, enjoying it with a cup of coffee, or treating yourself to something sweet. With its easy prep and delightful flavor, it’s sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. So grab your pecans, preheat the oven, and get ready to enjoy a slice of Southern bliss!

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