Introduction
Welcome to a slice of Southern comfort with this delightful Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread! This recipe marries the rich, nutty flavor of pecans with a soft and moist crumb, creating a delicious bread that is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy afternoon treat. The warm aroma of freshly baked bread infused with vanilla and buttery goodness is sure to wrap you in a cozy hug. Let’s dive into this comforting recipe that’s as easy to make as it is delightful to eat!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan to ensure easy removal later.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt. Whisk together until well blended.
- In a separate bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter and sour cream together until smooth and fluffy, releasing a rich, buttery aroma.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, stir in the vanilla extract for a warm, sweet fragrance.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Take care not to over-mix to keep your bread tender!
- Gently fold in the chopped pecans, allowing their nutty crunch to infuse every bite of the bread.
- Pour the luscious batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula, making it ready for the oven.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, resulting in a beautiful golden brown top.
- Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before gently turning it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes or Tips
- For extra flavor, consider toasting the pecans lightly before chopping and adding them to the batter.
- This bread can be stored in an airtight container for several days or frozen for up to three months. Just slice and enjoy whenever you crave a sweet treat!
- Serve it plain, or spread a little butter or cream cheese on top for an extra indulgent experience.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe employs the creaming method, which is key in baking. This technique involves beating butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, creating air pockets that leaven the bread, resulting in a delightful texture. Remember to incorporate your dry and wet ingredients gently to maintain that fluffy quality!
FAQ
- Can I use different nuts? Absolutely! While pecans add a lovely richness, you can substitute walnuts or almonds for a different twist.
- What can I do if my bread is too dry? Make sure not to overbake it and ensure that your measurements are accurate. If you find it dry, try adding a little more sour cream next time.
- Can I make this bread gluten-free? You can substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend, but be sure to check if it includes xanthan gum.
Conclusion
This Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is not just a recipe; it’s an invitation to slow down and savor life’s simple pleasures. Perfectly sweet, wonderfully moist, and beautifully nutty, it’s a treat that can be enjoyed by everyone. Whether you’re sharing it with family during a cozy gathering or savoring a slice with your morning coffee, this bread is sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Happy baking!