Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe for Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is a must-try for anyone who enjoys a soft, flavorful bread with a little extra crunch. The combination of buttermilk, butter, and sugar creates a light and moist texture, while the pecans add the perfect nutty bite. It’s incredibly easy to prepare and doesn’t require any fancy ingredients, making it ideal for bakers of all levels. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe, perfect for various occasions and can be enjoyed warm from the oven or stored for later.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and whisk until fully incorporated.
- Pour in the buttermilk and mix until everything is well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until the batter is smooth and thick.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 50–60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove from the oven and let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8–10 slices
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 50–60 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Variations
- Add-ins: Try adding chocolate chips, dried fruit, or chopped nuts other than pecans for a fun twist.
- Cinnamon or Nutmeg: Spice it up by adding 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter.
- Glaze: Drizzle a simple glaze of powdered sugar and milk over the cooled bread for extra sweetness.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3–4 days. If you want to keep it fresh for longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to a week.
- Reheating: To reheat, wrap a slice in a damp paper towel and microwave for 20-30 seconds or until warm. Alternatively, you can reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–10 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
It’s best to use unsalted butter in this recipe, as it gives you more control over the salt content. However, if you only have salted butter, just reduce the added salt in the recipe or omit it.
Can I make this bread without buttermilk?
Yes, you can substitute buttermilk with a mixture of 1 cup of regular milk and 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using it in the recipe.
Can I add pecans to the batter?
Yes, adding 1/2 to 1 cup of chopped pecans to the batter will enhance the flavor and texture of the bread.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water, let sit for 5 minutes), and replace the buttermilk with a plant-based milk (like almond or soy milk) combined with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar.
Can I freeze Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread?
Yes, you can freeze this bread. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then store it in a freezer-safe bag. It will last for up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw at room temperature when ready to serve.
Can I use a different type of nut?
Yes! You can use walnuts, almonds, or any other nut of your choice instead of pecans. Just chop them coarsely before adding them to the batter.
How do I know when the bread is done baking?
You can check if the bread is done by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s ready. If it’s wet with batter, bake for a few more minutes.
Can I make this bread in a muffin tin?
Yes, you can make this recipe in muffin tins! Just divide the batter among the muffin cups and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Why does my bread look too dry or crumbly?
If your bread is dry, you may have overmixed the batter or overbaked it. Be sure to mix just until combined and check the bread a few minutes before the recommended baking time.
Can I add a glaze or frosting on top?
Yes, you can add a simple glaze or frosting. A powdered sugar glaze or cream cheese frosting would complement the sweet and nutty flavors of the bread.
Conclusion
Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is a wonderful recipe that brings together simplicity and flavor in the most delightful way. With just a few ingredients, you can create a loaf that is both comforting and indulgent. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh from the oven or storing it for later, this bread is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Don’t be afraid to experiment with variations, and enjoy every bite!
Print
Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is a moist, buttery, and nutty bread that’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. This simple yet decadent recipe combines the rich flavors of butter, sugar, and buttermilk with crunchy pecans for an irresistible treat. Whether served fresh from the oven or stored for later, this bread will quickly become a family favorite. It’s easy to make, versatile with flavor variations, and delivers comfort in every slice. A true crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Stir until smooth.
- Add eggs and vanilla extract, whisking until fully incorporated.
- Pour in the buttermilk and mix until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until smooth and thick.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 50–60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Storage: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3–4 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly and refrigerate for up to a week.
- Reheating: Reheat slices by microwaving with a damp paper towel for 20-30 seconds, or in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes.
- Glaze: For extra sweetness, drizzle a glaze made from powdered sugar and milk over the cooled bread.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
