If you’ve ever craved a warm, moist, and nutty dessert with a hint of Southern charm, look no further than this Sweet Alabama Pecanbread. This simple yet indulgent treat combines the richness of pecans with the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. It’s an easy-to-make dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re serving it as a snack, dessert, or alongside your morning coffee. This pecanbread is just the kind of comfort food that makes you feel at home.
Why You’ll Love This Sweet Alabama Pecanbread
- Rich and Nutty: The finely chopped pecans add a delightful crunch and earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the sugars and the richness of the oil and eggs.
- Quick and Easy: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, this dessert can be made in no time, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings or just a weekend treat.
- Versatile: This pecanbread works beautifully as a dessert, a snack, or even a breakfast treat. Pair it with a cup of coffee, and you have yourself a Southern-inspired breakfast!
- Perfectly Moist: Thanks to the vegetable oil and eggs, this pecanbread turns out incredibly moist and dense, offering a satisfying bite every time.
Ingredients
- 2 cups pecans, finely chopped
- 1 1/2 cups self-rising flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray to prevent the pecanbread from sticking.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, beaten eggs, and vegetable oil. Stir the mixture well until everything is fully incorporated, and you have a smooth, creamy base.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the self-rising flour and salt to the wet mixture. Mix gently until the flour is fully incorporated, making sure not to overmix, as this can affect the texture of the bread.
Step 4: Add Vanilla and Pecans
Stir in the vanilla extract, followed by the finely chopped pecans. The nuts should be evenly distributed throughout the batter for a perfect bite every time.
Step 5: Pour and Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean. The bread should be golden on top and firm to the touch.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Allow the pecanbread to cool in the baking dish for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This allows the bread to set properly, making it easier to cut into neat slices.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls (large for the wet ingredients, medium for the dry)
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Toothpick (for testing doneness)
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: This Sweet Alabama Pecanbread is perfect on its own or served with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a more indulgent treat. It also pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea.
- Storage: Store any leftover pecanbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4-5 days. If you want to extend its freshness, you can refrigerate it, but be sure to allow it to come to room temperature before serving. It can also be frozen for up to 2 months—just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
Variations
- Add Spices: If you like a little extra warmth, try adding 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a spiced kick.
- Chocolate Lovers: Add 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips to the batter for a delightful chocolate-pecan twist.
- Coconut: For a tropical touch, stir in 1/2 cup of shredded coconut along with the pecans.
- Bourbon Pecanbread: For a true Southern twist, add a tablespoon of bourbon to the batter to enhance the flavor of the pecans.
Helpful Notes
- Chopping Pecans: To achieve the best texture, chop the pecans finely so they blend well into the batter. Larger pieces can create uneven bites, so aim for small, uniform pieces.
- Self-Rising Flour: This recipe calls for self-rising flour, which already contains baking powder and salt. If you don’t have self-rising flour, you can substitute it with regular all-purpose flour and add 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder and 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
- Even Baking: Be sure to check the doneness of the pecanbread at around 30 minutes. If the top starts to brown too quickly, tent the bread with aluminum foil and continue baking until a toothpick comes out clean.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Paula Deen: “Pecans and Southern desserts go hand in hand! Adding just the right amount of nuts gives any cake or bread the perfect crunch. Don’t be afraid to add a bit of extra sugar for a caramelized finish.”
- Alton Brown: “When baking with oil, like in this pecanbread, it keeps the bread moist and tender. But don’t forget to check your batter consistency—it should be thick but spreadable.”
- Ree Drummond: “Pecans are the star of Southern baking, and when they’re finely chopped and evenly distributed, they create a rich flavor throughout your bread.”
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use chopped walnuts instead of pecans?
Yes, you can substitute walnuts for pecans if you prefer. Keep in mind that walnuts have a slightly more bitter flavor than pecans, but they will still work well in this recipe.
2. Can I use a different type of flour?
This recipe is designed for self-rising flour, which helps the bread rise without additional leavening agents. If you use all-purpose flour, you’ll need to add 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder and 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
3. Can I freeze Sweet Alabama Pecanbread?
Yes, this pecanbread freezes wonderfully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
4. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
You can experiment with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of the self-rising flour. Be sure to check the flour package for specific substitutions and ensure it includes a binder like xanthan gum.
5. How can I make the pecanbread extra moist?
For even more moisture, you can add 1/4 cup of sour cream or buttermilk to the batter. This will give the bread a slightly tangy flavor and keep it moist longer.
This Sweet Alabama Pecanbread is a Southern classic that’s simple to make but full of flavor. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet afternoon, this nutty, sweet treat will always hit the spot.
