A moist and buttery Southern classic, this pecan bread is packed with nutty flavors and a hint of sweetness, making it a perfect treat for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Southern Comfort: A classic recipe with rich, nutty flavors that evoke Southern charm.
- Quick and Easy: Requires simple ingredients and just under an hour to make.
- Moist and Buttery: A tender texture that melts in your mouth.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great as a dessert, snack, or holiday treat.
- Customizable: Add your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruits.
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 2 cups self-rising flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Directions
1. Prepare the Batter:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, light brown sugar, eggs, and vegetable oil. Mix until the ingredients are smooth and fully blended.
- Gradually add the self-rising flour to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and fold in the chopped pecans until evenly distributed.
2. Bake the Bread:
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Cool and Serve:
- Remove the dish from the oven and allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes.
- Cut into squares and serve warm or at room temperature.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12 squares
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Variations
- Nut Mix: Swap or mix pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different nutty profile.
- Chocolate Lover’s Twist: Add a handful of chocolate chips to the batter for extra indulgence.
- Cinnamon Spice: Sprinkle cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Coconut Addition: Fold in shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
- Glaze It: Drizzle a simple vanilla or cream cheese glaze over the top for added sweetness.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Freezing: Wrap each square individually and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to refresh the texture.
FAQs
1. Can I use all-purpose flour instead of self-rising flour?
Yes, but add 2 teaspoons of baking powder and 1/2 teaspoon of salt per cup of all-purpose flour.
2. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, substitute with a gluten-free self-rising flour blend for a gluten-free version.
3. How do I prevent the bread from being too dense?
Avoid overmixing the batter; stir just until combined for a light texture.
4. Can I use other nuts?
Absolutely! Walnuts or hazelnuts make excellent substitutes.
5. What’s the best oil to use?
Vegetable oil works best, but you can also use canola or melted coconut oil.
6. Can I reduce the sugar?
You can reduce the granulated sugar by 1/4 cup without sacrificing too much sweetness.
7. How do I keep the bread moist?
Store it in an airtight container to lock in moisture. Avoid overbaking as it can dry out the bread.
8. Can I add fruits?
Yes! Add chopped apples, raisins, or dried cranberries for extra flavor.
9. What’s the best way to serve it?
Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
10. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, double the ingredients and use a larger pan or bake in two separate pans.
Conclusion
Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is a delightful Southern treat that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Its rich, nutty flavor and moist texture make it an irresistible choice for dessert, tea-time, or even as a thoughtful homemade gift. Bake a batch today and savor the comforting taste of the South!
Expand Your Southern Baking Repertoire
After enjoying the rich, nutty flavors of Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread, why not explore other delightful Southern-inspired recipes? Try making moist and delicious banana bread for another comforting treat. Elevate your dessert table with perfect Olympic chocolate muffins, a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Or, get festive with secrets to baking perfect sugar cookies for Christmas to bring holiday cheer to your kitchen. Each recipe is sure to inspire your next baking adventure!