Looking for a delicious homemade bread recipe? Try our Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread! Made with simple ingredients like flour, butter, sugar, and chopped pecans, this easy-to-make bread is perfect for breakfast or snack time.
Are you ready to indulge in a taste of the South? Look no further than Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread! This delightful treat combines the rich flavors of pecans with the comforting warmth of freshly baked bread. In this article, we’ll guide you through the simple steps to create this Southern classic in your own kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Oven and Pan:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease/flour a 9-inch loaf pan to prevent sticking.
2. Mixing the Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside for later.
3. Creaming the Butter and Sugar:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, creating a creamy base for your bread.
4. Adding Eggs and Flavor:
- Add the eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture, beating well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract for a hint of sweetness.
5. Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Mix well after each addition until you have a smooth batter.
6. Folding in Pecans:
- Gently fold in the chopped pecans until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter, adding a delicious crunch to every bite.
7. Baking to Perfection:
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cooling and Serving:
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice and serve the bread, savoring each bite of this Southern delicacy.
Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is a true testament to the rich culinary heritage of the South. With its simple yet satisfying combination of pecans, butter, and sugar, this bread is sure to become a family favorite for generations to come. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast treat or afternoon snack, this Southern delight will warm your heart and tantalize your taste buds.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter in this recipe?
- While unsalted butter is preferred to control the saltiness of the bread, you can use salted butter if that’s what you have on hand. Just be mindful of the overall salt content in the recipe.
Is there a substitute for buttermilk if I don’t have any on hand?
- Yes, you can make a buttermilk substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before using it in the recipe.
Can I add other nuts besides pecans to this bread?
- Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite nuts such as walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts for a unique twist on this classic recipe.
How should I store leftover pecan bread?
- To keep it fresh, store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze slices of the bread for longer storage.
Can I toast slices of pecan bread for extra flavor?
- Yes, toasting slices of pecan bread adds a delightful crunch and enhances the nutty flavor. Simply toast slices in a toaster or oven until golden brown, and enjoy!
Leave a Reply