Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe: A Southern Delight with a Rich, Nutty Flavor
Introduction
Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is a beloved Southern treat that combines the warm, rich flavors of brown sugar, vanilla, and pecans into a delightfully moist and tender bread. Perfectly sweetened and filled with finely chopped pecans, this recipe delivers a nutty, slightly caramelized flavor in every bite. Its cake-like texture makes it an ideal dessert, snack, or even breakfast option! Plus, it’s simple to make and requires only a few ingredients, making it perfect for novice bakers or anyone craving a homemade treat that captures the essence of Southern comfort. Follow along for the full recipe, baking tips, and answers to frequently asked questions!
Ingredients for Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 4 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup oil (vegetable or canola oil works best)
- 1 1/2 cups self-rising flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups pecans, finely chopped
How to Make Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish and Oven
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Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. This step ensures easy removal and a perfectly baked bread with an even, golden crust.
Step 2: Mix the Sugars, Eggs, and Oil
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Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, use a wooden spoon to stir together the sugar, brown sugar, beaten eggs, and oil until the mixture is smooth. The sugars dissolve as they mix with the eggs and oil, creating a thick, caramel-like base for the batter.
Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients and Vanilla
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Incorporate Flour and Vanilla
Add the self-rising flour to the sugar and egg mixture, followed by the vanilla extract. Stir gently until the flour is fully incorporated. Avoid over-mixing, as this can make the bread tough.
Step 4: Fold in the Pecans
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Add the Pecans
Stir in the finely chopped pecans until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. Pecans add texture, flavor, and a lovely crunch to every bite of this bread.
Step 5: Bake the Pecan Bread
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Pour Batter into the Baking Dish
Pour the batter into the prepared 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. -
Bake
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden and firm, with a slight crackle.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
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Cool Before Serving
Remove the pan from the oven and allow the bread to cool for a few minutes before cutting. This ensures clean, even slices. -
Slice and Enjoy!
Cut the bread into squares or slices, and enjoy it warm or at room temperature. Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread pairs beautifully with coffee, tea, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream!
Tips for Perfect Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread
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Use Self-Rising Flour for Best Results
Self-rising flour provides the ideal lift and texture for this recipe. If you only have all-purpose flour, add 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder and 1/2 teaspoon of salt per cup of flour as a substitute. -
Chop Pecans Finely
Finely chopping the pecans helps them mix evenly into the batter and adds a delicate crunch to each bite. For a coarser texture, feel free to leave some larger pecan pieces. -
Don’t Over-Mix the Batter
Stir just until the ingredients are combined to keep the bread soft and tender. Over-mixing can lead to a dense or tough texture. -
Enhance the Flavor with Cinnamon or Nutmeg
If you’d like, add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg to the batter for a warm, spiced twist on the traditional flavor. -
Store Leftovers Properly
Store leftover pecan bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to three months.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I substitute the self-rising flour with all-purpose flour?
Yes! To substitute self-rising flour, use an equal amount of all-purpose flour and add 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder and 1/2 teaspoon of salt per cup of flour to achieve the same leavening effect.
Q2: What type of oil works best for this recipe?
Vegetable or canola oil is recommended for a neutral flavor. If you prefer a hint of flavor, you could try using coconut oil, but note that it may alter the final taste slightly.
Q3: How do I know when the pecan bread is done baking?
The bread is done when the top is golden brown, slightly crackled, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Baking times may vary slightly depending on your oven, so check for doneness around the 30-minute mark.
Q4: Can I add chocolate chips or other mix-ins to this recipe?
Absolutely! Chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or chopped dates are delicious additions to Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread. Stir in up to 1/2 cup of any desired mix-ins to complement the pecans.
Q5: Can I use walnuts instead of pecans?
Yes, walnuts can be a great substitute for pecans in this recipe. They have a similar texture and add a rich, nutty flavor. You can use an equal amount (2 cups) of chopped walnuts.
Q6: Does this recipe need to be refrigerated?
This bread can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to three days. However, for longer freshness, especially in warmer climates, it’s best to refrigerate it. Refrigerated pecan bread will last for up to a week.
Q7: Can I freeze Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread?
Yes, this bread freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then wrap individual slices or squares in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw at room temperature or gently reheat in the microwave when ready to serve.
Conclusion
Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is the perfect combination of simplicity and indulgence, offering the rich flavors of pecans, brown sugar, and vanilla in a soft, tender bread. Whether enjoyed on its own, with a cup of coffee, or as a dessert topped with whipped cream, this Southern treat is sure to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy baking and sharing this recipe with friends and family—it’s bound to be a hit!