Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Step-by-Step Instructions:
1️⃣ Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan to prevent sticking.
2️⃣ Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. Add the eggs, one at a time, and mix until fully incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract.
3️⃣ Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
4️⃣ Fold in the Pecans
Gently fold the chopped pecans into the batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
5️⃣ Pour and Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown.
6️⃣ Cool and Serve
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. If desired, dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Pro Tips for Perfect Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread:
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the dry and wet ingredients, stir just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to dense bread.
- Toast the Pecans: Toasting the pecans before adding them to the batter enhances their flavor. Simply toast them in a dry skillet for 3-5 minutes over medium heat until fragrant.
- Check for Doneness: The bread should be golden brown on top, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean. If the bread is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil during baking.
Why You’ll Love Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread:
- Sweet and Nutty: The combination of granulated and brown sugar creates a perfectly sweet flavor, while the toasted pecans add a delightful crunch.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether for a Southern-style breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack, this bread is versatile and delicious.
- Moist and Tender: The use of buttermilk makes the bread extra moist and gives it a slight tang that balances the sweetness perfectly.
Nutritional Information (per slice):
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Protein: 3g
- Carbs: 32g
- Fat: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
FAQ About Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread:
Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes, if you don’t have buttermilk, you can substitute it with regular milk. However, buttermilk gives the bread its signature moist texture and slight tang.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! This bread keeps well at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months—just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.
Can I use a different nut instead of pecans?
Yes! Feel free to swap the pecans with walnuts or almonds, though the flavor will be slightly different. Pecans are traditional in this Southern recipe for a reason—they add a rich, buttery taste!
Common Problems and Fixes:
The Bread Is Too Dense?
If the bread is too dense, it may have been overmixed or not enough leavening was added. Be sure to mix just until incorporated and check that your baking soda is fresh.
The Bread Didn’t Rise Enough?
If the bread doesn’t rise as expected, make sure your baking soda is still active. Old baking soda can result in flat, heavy bread. Also, check that your oven is fully preheated before placing the bread inside.
Flavor Variations You Can Try:
- Cinnamon Pecan Bread: Add 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced twist on the classic.
- Maple Pecan Bread: Substitute the brown sugar with maple sugar or add a drizzle of maple syrup over the cooled bread for a sweet, maple flavor.
- Cranberry Pecan Bread: Stir in 1/2 cup of dried cranberries along with the pecans for a festive touch.
Why Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Is Perfect for Any Occasion:
This bread is ideal for breakfast, brunch, or as a delightful snack with your afternoon coffee. It’s a perfect addition to any Southern gathering, holiday table, or as a homemade gift for loved ones. It’s simple, comforting, and sure to be a hit!
Success with Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread:
Sweet, nutty, and tender, this bread will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Its classic Southern flavor will make it a crowd-pleaser for family and friends alike. Whether served warm with butter or enjoyed as-is, this bread is a must-try!
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