Introduction to Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe: Southern Dessert
Welcome to my kitchen, where the aroma of freshly baked goods fills the air! Today, I’m excited to share my Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe: Southern Dessert. This delightful treat is not just a recipe; it’s a warm hug on a plate. Perfect for busy days or when you want to impress your loved ones, this bread combines the rich flavors of pecans with a hint of sweetness. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving something comforting, this recipe is your go-to solution. Let’s dive into the world of Southern baking together!
Why You’ll Love This Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe
This Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe is a true gem for busy moms and professionals alike. It’s incredibly easy to whip up, taking just 15 minutes of prep time. The rich, nutty flavor of pecans combined with the sweetness makes it a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it fills your home with a delightful aroma that will have everyone asking for seconds. Trust me, this recipe is a delicious way to bring joy to your table!
Ingredients for Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful Southern dessert. Here’s what you’ll need:
- All-purpose flour: The backbone of the bread, providing structure and texture.
- Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a lovely crust.
- Brown sugar: Brings a rich, caramel-like flavor that complements the pecans.
- Chopped pecans: The star of the show! They add crunch and a nutty taste.
- Unsalted butter: For moisture and richness; make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
- Large eggs: They bind the ingredients together and add moisture.
- Buttermilk: This ingredient keeps the bread tender and adds a slight tang.
- Vanilla extract: A splash of this enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Baking powder: Helps the bread rise, giving it a light texture.
- Baking soda: Works with the buttermilk to create a fluffy crumb.
- Salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness and enhance flavors.
For those looking to add a twist, consider a teaspoon of cinnamon for warmth. You can find all the exact measurements at the bottom of the article, ready for printing. Happy baking!
How to Make Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s get to the fun part—making this Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious Southern dessert in no time.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because it ensures even baking. While the oven warms up, grease your loaf pan with a bit of butter or cooking spray. This will help your bread slide out easily once it’s baked.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Use a hand mixer or a whisk to beat them until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process is essential for creating a tender texture in your bread. The air you incorporate will help it rise beautifully!
Step 3: Add the Eggs
Next, add the large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Eggs are the binding agents in this recipe, providing moisture and richness. They help hold everything together, ensuring your bread has a lovely, cohesive texture.
Step 4: Mix in Buttermilk and Vanilla
Now, stir in the buttermilk and vanilla extract. Buttermilk not only adds moisture but also a slight tang that balances the sweetness. The vanilla enhances the overall flavor, making each bite a delightful experience.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients separately is important. It ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed, which helps your bread rise uniformly.
Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this can lead to a dense bread. A few lumps are perfectly fine—trust me, your Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread will still turn out amazing!
Step 7: Fold in Pecans
Now it’s time to fold in those chopped pecans. Use a spatula to gently incorporate them into the batter. Folding helps distribute the pecans evenly without deflating the batter. You want those crunchy bits in every slice!
Step 8: Bake the Bread
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, your bread is ready to come out!
Step 9: Cooling Process
Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This step is important because it helps the bread set. After that, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slicing too soon can lead to a crumbly mess, and we want perfect slices!
Tips for Success
- Always use room temperature ingredients for better mixing.
- Don’t skip the greasing step; it ensures easy removal from the pan.
- For a richer flavor, toast the pecans lightly before adding them.
- Check your bread a few minutes before the timer goes off to avoid overbaking.
- Let the bread cool completely for the best slicing experience.
Equipment Needed
- Loaf pan: A standard 9×5 inch pan works best, but any similar size will do.
- Mixing bowls: Use one large bowl for wet ingredients and another for dry.
- Whisk or hand mixer: Either will help you achieve that fluffy texture.
- Spatula: Perfect for folding in those delicious pecans.
- Toothpick: Essential for checking if your bread is done baking.
Variations of Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe
- Chocolate Chip Pecan Bread: Add a cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips for a delightful twist.
- Maple Pecan Bread: Substitute granulated sugar with maple syrup for a unique flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make this recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
- Banana Pecan Bread: Mash two ripe bananas and fold them into the batter for added moisture and flavor.
- Spiced Pecan Bread: Incorporate a teaspoon of nutmeg or allspice for a warm, cozy flavor.
Serving Suggestions for Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe
- Serve warm with a pat of butter for a comforting treat.
- Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack.
- Top with cream cheese frosting for a decadent dessert.
- Garnish with fresh fruit for a colorful presentation.
- Slice and serve at brunch alongside fresh berries.
FAQs about Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe
Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Absolutely! While pecans are the star of this Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe, you can substitute them with walnuts or almonds for a different flavor and texture. Just make sure to chop them up similarly to the pecans.
How should I store the Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread?
To keep your bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay delicious for up to a week. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! This Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread can be made a day in advance. In fact, letting it sit overnight allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just make sure to store it properly to maintain its moisture.
What can I serve with Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread?
This bread pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea. You can also serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a spread of cream cheese for an extra treat. It’s perfect for brunch or as a delightful afternoon snack!
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes! This Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe is vegetarian-friendly. It contains no meat or fish, making it a great option for those following a vegetarian diet.
Final Thoughts
As I reflect on my Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe: Southern Dessert, I can’t help but smile. This bread is more than just a treat; it’s a celebration of flavors and memories. Each slice brings warmth and comfort, perfect for sharing with family or enjoying during a quiet moment. The joy of baking this recipe fills my kitchen with love and laughter, making it a cherished addition to any gathering. I hope you find as much happiness in making and sharing this delightful bread as I do. Happy baking, friends!
Print
Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe: Discover This Delicious Treat!
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful Southern dessert featuring a rich blend of pecans and sweet flavors, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the buttermilk and vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the chopped pecans.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- For added flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of cinnamon to the batter.
- This bread can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.
- Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally with a spread of butter.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60-70 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg