Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe – A Southern Delight!
Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is a delicious, moist, and flavorful quick bread that brings together the rich taste of pecans with the sweetness of vanilla and cinnamon. This southern-inspired recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re serving it at a family breakfast, holiday brunch, or simply enjoying a slice with your afternoon tea.
Total Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Serves: 8-10 people
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon (optional, for added warmth)
- 1 1/2 cups pecans, chopped
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed (for topping)
- 1 tbsp melted butter (for brushing on top)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes with a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the milk and vanilla extract until combined.
3. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon (if using). Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie result in dense bread.
4. Add the Pecans:
Gently fold in the chopped pecans until evenly distributed throughout the batter. The pecans add a wonderful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the bread.
5. Pour the Batter into the Pan:
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
6. Add the Topping:
For an extra touch of sweetness and crunch, sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the top of the batter. This will create a beautiful, caramelized crust as the bread bakes.
7. Bake the Bread:
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean. If the top begins to brown too quickly, you can loosely cover the bread with aluminum foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
8. Brush with Butter:
Once the bread is done, remove it from the oven and brush the top with melted butter for a glossy finish and extra flavor. Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Slice & Serve:
Once the bread has cooled, slice it into generous pieces. Serve it as is, or toast it lightly for added flavor. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of milk.
Why You’ll Love This Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread:
- Southern Comfort in Every Bite: This bread is infused with classic southern flavors, from the nutty pecans to the rich, buttery sweetness that will remind you of warm, homemade desserts.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a brunch, celebrating a holiday, or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon at home, Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is a perfect treat for any time of day.
- Moist and Flavorful: The combination of butter, sugar, and milk ensures this bread is incredibly moist, while the chopped pecans add a satisfying crunch.
- Easy to Make: This is a quick bread recipe, meaning no yeast, no rising time—just mix, pour, and bake. It’s perfect for anyone, even beginners in the kitchen.
- Great for Gifting: Wrapped in a decorative paper or placed in a gift box, this bread makes a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family.