Description
Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread
Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread might sound like your typical Southern loaf, but it’s anything but ordinary. This delightful dessert bar is packed with crunchy pecans, a buttery crumb, and an irresistible sweetness that’ll make your taste buds dance! Perfect for potlucks, holidays, or backyard gatherings, this treat is easy to whip up and even easier to enjoy. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a next-level experience—trust me, it’s addictively delicious!
2 cups chopped pecans, toasted
1 1/2 cups self-rising flour
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1 cup white granulated sugar
1 cup vegetable oil
4 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 tsp salt
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13 baking dish.
2. Mix sugars, vegetable oil, and eggs until smooth.
3. Stir in vanilla, then add flour and salt.
4. Fold in pecans by hand. Pour batter into baking dish.
5. Bake for 30-35 mins. Cool for 10 mins, cut into squares.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Kcal: 320 kcal per serving
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep & Toast: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the chopped pecans on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes until fragrant. Let cool. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the packed brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vegetable oil until fully combined. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened.
3. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Stir in the vanilla extract. Gently fold in the self-rising flour and salt using a spatula. Mix just until no dry streaks remain; do not overmix.
4. Add Pecans & Bake: Fold in the toasted, cooled pecans by hand. Pour the thick batter into the prepared dish, spreading it evenly. Bake on the center rack for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
5. Cool & Serve: Let the bread cool in the pan on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes before cutting into squares. For clean cuts, use a sharp knife wiped clean between slices.
Serving Suggestions
This rich, nutty bread is versatile. Serve it warm as a dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a brunch treat, pair a square with coffee or tea. It also makes an excellent gift—simply wrap individual squares in parchment paper and tie with twine.
How-to Summary
Toast pecans. Mix sugars, oil, and eggs. Stir in vanilla, flour, and salt. Fold in pecans. Bake in a greased 9×13 dish at 350°F for 30-35 minutes. Cool and slice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of self-rising? Yes. Replace 1 1/2 cups self-rising flour with 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 2 1/4 tsp baking powder, and 3/4 tsp salt.
How should I store this bread? Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Can I add other mix-ins? Absolutely. Chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or a teaspoon of cinnamon are excellent additions.
Why is my bread too dense or greasy? This is often due to overmixing the batter after adding the flour, which develops gluten. Mix just until combined. Also, ensure you are using the correct amount of oil.
Can I make this into muffins? Yes. Divide the batter into a lined muffin tin and bake at 350°F for 18-22 minutes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the batter: This leads to a tough, dense texture. Fold ingredients gently.
- Skipping the toasting step for pecans: Toasting is crucial for deepening their flavor and crunch.
- Using cold eggs: Cold eggs can cause the oil to solidify. Use room-temperature eggs for a smoother, more emulsified batter.
- Overbaking: Check a few minutes before the timer ends. The bread is done when a toothpick has a few moist crumbs attached.
Conclusion
Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is a quintessential Southern treat that combines simplicity with decadent flavor. By following this detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can consistently create a moist, nutty, and perfectly sweet dessert bar. Whether for a special occasion or a simple family snack, this recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!