Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread

Step-by-step instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until it becomes light and fluffy.
Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Alternately mix in the flour mixture and buttermilk into the butter mixture. Start and end with the flour mixture, mixing until just combined.
Gently fold in the chopped pecans.
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and cinnamon.
Pour half of the batter into your prepared loaf pan, then sprinkle half of the brown sugar mixture evenly over this layer.
Add the remaining batter on top, followed by the rest of the brown sugar mixture.
Use a knife to gently swirl the sugar mixture into the batter for a marbled effect.
Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Best ways to enjoy it

Serve Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread warm or at room temperature, and for an indulgent touch, consider spreading a little butter on top. This bread pairs wonderfully with a steaming cup of coffee or tea and makes for an excellent addition to breakfast or brunch spreads. For dessert, a scoop of vanilla ice cream complemented by thin slices of the warm bread can elevate your experience to another level.

Keeping leftovers fresh

To maintain the moisture and flavor of your Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn.

Helpful cooking tips

Ensure that your butter is softened for easy creaming—this will result in a light and fluffy batter.
When measuring flour, spoon it into the measuring cup instead of scooping directly to avoid packing it, which can lead to dense bread.
Feel free to experiment with different nuts or add chocolate chips for an extra level of richness.

Creative twists

While this recipe shines on its own, consider these variations for a bit of fun:

Swap some of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour for a nuttier element.
Incorporate dried fruits such as cranberries or raisins for added sweetness and texture.
Drizzle a simple glaze on top after baking for a little extra flair.

FAQs

What is the prep time for Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread?

Prep time for this recipe is about 15-20 minutes, and the baking time is approximately 55-65 minutes.

Can I substitute buttermilk with regular milk?

Yes! You can easily substitute buttermilk with regular milk by adding a tablespoon of vinegar to every cup of milk. Let it sit for a few minutes to sour.

How do I store the bread safely?

For short-term storage, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature. For long-term storage, wrap well and freeze. Always ensure the bread is completely cooled before wrapping to avoid trapping moisture inside.