Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread

Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is the perfect recipe for you. It’s sweet, nutty, and oh-so-delicious everything you’d want in a comforting homemade treat. I love making this bread because it’s simple, yet it feels like something special. Whether you’re baking it for a family gathering or just to enjoy with a cup of coffee, this pecan bread is sure to become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread

This bread is such a winner. First off, it’s packed with the rich flavor of pecans, which gives it that signature Southern twist. The combination of Steen’s Cane Syrup (or light molasses) and two kinds of sugar creates a sweetness that’s deep and satisfying without being overwhelming. Plus, the sour cream adds a subtle tang that balances everything perfectly.

Another reason I adore this recipe? It’s super easy to make. There’s no fancy equipment needed just a couple of bowls, a whisk, and an 8×8-inch pan. And trust me, the smell of this bread baking in the oven will have everyone running to the kitchen!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful bread:

• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon Steen’s Cane Syrup or light molasses
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup self-rising flour
• 1-1/2 cups finely chopped pecans (divided)
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar
• 2/3 cup light brown sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

These are all ingredients you can easily find at your local grocery store. If you don’t have Steen’s Cane Syrup, light molasses works beautifully as a substitute.

Instructions for Making Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread

Now, let’s get to the fun part making the bread! Here’s how I do it:

1. Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Then, grab an 8×8-inch glass baking pan or brownie pan and give it a quick spray with Baker’s Release spray. This ensures the bread won’t stick, making cleanup a breeze.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, stir together the eggs, sour cream, vegetable oil, cane syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth. I like using a whisk for this step it helps blend everything evenly.
3. Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the self-rising flour, 1 cup of the chopped pecans, both types of sugar, and the salt. Stir gently to combine.
4. Bring It All Together: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until the batter is fully combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want the texture to stay light and airy.
5. Add the Finishing Touches: Pour the batter into your prepared pan and sprinkle the remaining pecans on top. Not only does this look beautiful, but it also adds a nice crunch to every bite.
6. Bake to Perfection: Pop the pan into the oven and bake for about 40 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean (or with just a few crumbs), it’s ready!
7. Cool and Slice: Let the bread cool in the pan before slicing it into nine squares (a 3×3 grid). Trust me, waiting is hard, but it’s worth it the flavors deepen as it cools.

Expert Tips and Tricks

Over the years, I’ve picked up a few tricks to make this Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread even better. Here’s what I’ve learned:

• Toast the Pecans: For an extra layer of flavor, toast the pecans lightly in a dry skillet before chopping them. It enhances their nuttiness and makes the bread even more irresistible.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Since this recipe has so few ingredients, the quality of each one matters. Fresh eggs, good-quality pecans, and real vanilla extract make a noticeable difference.
• Don’t Skip the Cooling Time: As tempting as it is to dig in right away, letting the bread cool allows the flavors to meld together. Plus, it slices much cleaner when it’s not hot.

Recipe Variations & Possible Substitutions

One of the things I love about this Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is how adaptable it is. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Gluten-Free Option: Swap the self-rising flour for a gluten-free alternative. Just make sure it contains a leavening agent since self-rising flour does the heavy lifting here.
• Nut-Free Version: If you need a nut-free option, try substituting the pecans with sunflower seeds or oats for texture.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced flavor.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is incredibly versatile. Here are some of my favorite ways to serve it:

• For Breakfast: Slice it up and pair it with a steaming mug of coffee or tea. It’s hearty enough to keep you fueled through the morning.
• As a Dessert: Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent treat.
• For Gifting: Wrap slices in parchment paper and tie them with ribbon for a thoughtful homemade gift.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you happen to have leftovers (which rarely happens in my house!), here’s how to store them:

• Room Temperature: Keep the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerate: For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week. Bring it back to room temperature before serving.
• Freeze: You can freeze individual slices in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or reheat in the microwave for a quick snack.

Recipe FAQs

Here are answers to some common questions I get about this Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread:

• Can I use regular flour instead of self-rising flour?
  Yes! Just add 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder and 1/4 teaspoon of salt per cup of all-purpose flour to mimic self-rising flour.
• What can I substitute for Steen’s Cane Syrup?
  Light molasses or honey works well as a substitute.
• Can I double the recipe?
  Absolutely! Simply double all the ingredients and use a larger pan, like a 9×13-inch dish. Adjust the baking time slightly if needed.

Troubleshooting Tips

Even the simplest recipes can sometimes go wrong. Here’s how to fix common issues:

• Dense Bread: If your bread turns out dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter. Stir just until the ingredients are combined.
• Too Sweet: Reduce the granulated sugar slightly if you prefer a less sweet loaf.
• Not Done in the Middle: If the edges are browning but the center isn’t set, cover the pan loosely with foil and continue baking.

Final Thoughts

Making Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is a joy it’s simple, satisfying, and full of Southern charm. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or savoring it solo, this bread is sure to bring a smile to your face.

Print