Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread

This Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is a delightful treat that is perfect for breakfast or as a dessert. The combination of butter, sugar, and pecans creates a rich and nutty flavor that is sure to please your taste buds.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup chopped pecans

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a loaf pan.
• In a large bowl, combine melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar.
• Beat in eggs, one at a time, and stir in vanilla extract.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
• Add dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
• Stir in chopped pecans.
• Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
• Allow bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
• Slice and enjoy!

Popular questions:

• Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, but you may want to reduce the amount of added salt in the recipe to account for the salted butter.

• Can I use a different type of nut instead of pecans?

Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds would also work well in this recipe.

• How can I store this bread?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the fridge for longer shelf life.

• Can I freeze this bread?

Yes, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

• Can I use a gluten-free flour in this recipe?

You can try using a gluten-free flour blend, but the texture and taste may vary.

• Can I add chocolate chips to the batter?

Absolutely! Chocolate chips would make a tasty addition to this bread.

• Can I use a different type of sugar?

Brown sugar adds a nice depth of flavor, but you can experiment with different sugars like coconut or maple sugar.

• Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just make sure to use a larger pan and adjust the baking time accordingly.

• How do I know when the bread is done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center, and if it comes out clean, the bread is ready.

• Can I add a glaze to the bread?

A simple powdered sugar and milk glaze would be a delicious addition to this bread.

Helpful tips:

• Toast the pecans before adding them to the batter for a richer nutty flavor.
• For extra sweetness, sprinkle some cinnamon sugar on top of the bread before baking.
• Add a handful of dried cranberries or raisins for a pop of sweetness and texture.
• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
• Drizzle with a caramel sauce for an indulgent treat.
• Experiment with different spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a unique twist on the flavor profile.
• For a healthier version, substitute some of the butter with applesauce.
• Give the bread a tropical twist by adding shredded coconut to the batter.
• For a festive touch, sprinkle some powdered sugar over the cooled bread before serving.
• Enjoy a slice with a cup of hot coffee or tea for a delicious morning treat.

Expert Secrets:

• Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature for even mixing and baking.
• Use a light-colored loaf pan to prevent the edges from over-browning.
• Don’t overmix the batter to avoid a tough and dense bread.
• For a gooey topping, sprinkle some extra brown sugar and pecans on top of the bread before baking.
• Let the bread cool completely before slicing to prevent it from crumbling.
• Brush the warm bread with melted butter for a shiny and flavorful crust.
• For a crispier crust, bake the bread in a preheated dutch oven.
• Add a splash of rum or bourbon to the batter for an extra kick of flavor.
• For a crunchy texture, sprinkle some coarse sugar on top of the batter before baking.
• Experiment with different extracts like almond or maple for a unique flavor profile.