Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe At Home
Discover a delightful, sweet Alabama pecan bread recipe combining simplicity and the warmth of Southern baking traditions.
Equipment
- Mixing Bowls (for dry and wet ingredients)
- Electric mixer (optional, but helpful for beating the wet ingredients)
- Whisk (for combining dry ingredients)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Loaf pan (for baking the bread)
- Oven (to bake the bread)
- Cooling rack (to cool the bread after baking)
Ingredients
- 2 cups All-purpose flour Basic flour used for structure. If you want a gluten-free version, consider using a gluten-free flour blend.
- 1 cup Granulated sugar Adds sweetness. Adjust based on preference; you can substitute with brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
- 1 tablespoon Baking powder A leavening agent to help the bread rise. Ensure it's fresh for the best results.
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt Balances the sweetness and enhances other flavors.
- 2 large Eggs Provide structure and moisture. Ensure eggs are at room temperature for easier mixing.
- 1/2 cup Unsalted butter, melted Adds richness and flavor. Melt before mixing into wet ingredients.
- 1/2 cup Whole milk Contributes to the moist texture. You can substitute with almond milk or oat milk for dairy-free.
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract Adds aromatic sweetness. Always use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor.
- 1 1/2 cups Pecans chopped The star ingredient. Toast lightly for a deeper flavor, but optional. Ensure pecans are fresh and not rancid for the best taste.
- Optional 1/2 teaspoon Ground cinnamon Adds warmth and spice, complements the pecans. Optional for those who prefer a more spiced flavor.
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- Prepare the wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and then add the melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined.
- Combine wet and dry mixtures: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this will help keep the bread light and fluffy.
- Add the pecans: Fold the chopped pecans into the batter, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan: Scrape the mixture 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, or with just a few crumbs attached. Keep an eye on it near the end to avoid over-baking.
- Cool the bread: Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps maintain the bread's texture and prevents it from breaking apart.
- Slice and serve: Once cooled, slice the bread and enjoy it as a delicious breakfast, snack, or dessert.
Notes
Use fresh pecans for the best flavor & texture in your Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread. Older stale nuts can negatively impact the taste and consistency. When measuring flour, spoon it into the cup and level it off to avoid adding too much, which leads to a dense loaf. Don't overmix the batter as it makes the bread tough. For extra flavor, add some cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients. Let the bread cool thoroughly before slicing to prevent crumbling or excessive moisture. This bread stores well for a few days when wrapped or can be frozen for more extended periods. Enjoy it for breakfast, a snack, or a sweet treat with coffee or tea.
Nutrition Information
Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutrition information for one serving, assuming 12 servings per loaf:
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Protein: 3g
-
Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 15g
-
Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 100mg
- Potassium: 100mg
- Vitamin A: 6% of the Daily Value
- Vitamin C: 0% of the Daily Value
- Calcium: 2% of the Daily Value
- Iron: 6% of the Daily Value