Delicious Southern Pecan Bread Recipe

Welcome to a slice of Southern comfort with this delightful recipe for Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread. If you’re craving a taste of the South, this moist and nutty bread is sure to hit the spot. Packed with crunchy pecans and a hint of sweetness, this bread is a true Southern classic that will have you coming back for more.

In this recipe for Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread, the rich flavors of pecans are beautifully complemented by the subtle sweetness of cane syrup or molasses. The combination of self-rising flour, eggs, and a touch of sour cream creates a tender texture that perfectly showcases the star of the show – the pecans. Whether enjoyed for breakfast with a cup of coffee or as a sweet treat any time of day, this bread is sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Let’s dive into the recipe and bring a taste of Alabama to your kitchen!

Quick Benefits

  • Rich in pecans, providing a good source of healthy fats and antioxidants
  • Balanced sweetness from cane syrup and brown sugar for a delightful flavor
  • Easy to make with simple ingredients for a delicious treat

Why You’ll Love This Delicious Southern Pecan Bread Recipe Recipe

  • This Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is a delightful combination of sweet and nutty flavors that will satisfy your cravings.
  • The recipe is simple and easy to follow, making it perfect for both beginner and experienced bakers.
  • The use of Steen’s cane syrup or light molasses adds a unique depth of flavor that sets this bread apart from traditional pecan bread recipes.
  • The addition of sour cream and vegetable oil ensures that the bread stays moist and tender, creating a perfect texture.
  • With a generous amount of finely chopped pecans both in the batter and sprinkled on top, every bite offers a satisfying crunch and nutty goodness.
  • The balance of granulated sugar and light brown sugar gives the bread a perfect level of sweetness without being overwhelming.
  • This Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is versatile and can be enjoyed as a breakfast treat, snack, or even as a dessert with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Ingredients for Delicious Southern Pecan Bread Recipe

Wet Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 tablespoon Steen’s cane syrup or light molasses
  • 2 large eggs

Dry Ingredients

  • 2/3 cup light brown sugar, packed
  • 1½ cups finely chopped pecans, divided
  • 1 cup self-rising flour
  • 2/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

How to Make Delicious Southern Pecan Bread Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat oven to 350°F and grease an 8×8-inch glass baking pan generously with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

Combine eggs, sour cream, vegetable oil, cane syrup, and vanilla extract in a medium bowl. Whisk until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

Combine self-rising flour, 1 cup of chopped pecans, both sugars, and salt in a large bowl, stirring until well mixed. Save remaining pecans for topping.

Step 4: Make the Batter

Combine wet and dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. It’s okay if there are a few lumps.

Step 5: Assemble for Baking

Evenly spread the batter in the prepared baking pan and sprinkle the remaining chopped pecans on top.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Bake for 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, and the top is golden brown and set.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Allow the bread to cool fully in the pan before cutting into 9 squares in a 3×3 pattern to help it maintain its shape when sliced.

Storage Tips

Once you have baked the delicious Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread, it’s important to store it properly to maintain its freshness and flavor. To store the finished dish, allow it to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to seal in moisture and prevent it from drying out. You can also place the bread in an airtight container if preferred.

For short-term storage, the Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread can be kept at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. If you want to keep it for longer, store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. To enjoy the bread at its best, you can also freeze it. Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the bread in the refrigerator overnight and then bring it to room temperature before serving. Proper storage will help preserve the freshness and taste of this delightful pecan bread for you to enjoy over an extended period.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you are looking to make some ingredient substitutions for the Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread, there are a few options to consider. You can replace the sour cream with an equal amount of plain Greek yogurt for a slightly tangy flavor. Instead of vegetable oil, you can use melted butter or a light-tasting oil like canola or sunflower oil. If you don’t have Steen’s cane syrup or light molasses, you can substitute with an equal amount of honey or maple syrup for a similar sweetness.

For the self-rising flour, you can make your own by combining 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. This will serve as a good substitute for self-rising flour. If you are looking to reduce the sugar content, you can use a combination of granulated and brown sugar substitutes such as erythritol or stevia. These substitutions can help tailor the recipe to your dietary preferences or ingredient availability while still maintaining the delicious essence of the Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try toasting slices of the Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread and serving them warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The warm bread with the crunchy pecans and the creamy topping create a delightful contrast in flavors and textures that will surely impress your guests.

Another fun idea is to use the Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread to make a decadent French toast. Dip thick slices of the bread in a mixture of beaten eggs, milk, and a dash of cinnamon before frying them on a skillet until golden brown. Serve the French toast with a drizzle of maple syrup and a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a breakfast or brunch treat that your family will love.

FAQs for Delicious Southern Pecan Bread Recipe

Can I use dark molasses instead of light molasses?

Yes, you can substitute dark molasses for light molasses in this recipe. Keep in mind that dark molasses has a stronger flavor, so the bread may have a slightly different taste.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of self-rising flour?

It is not recommended to use whole wheat flour instead of self-rising flour in this recipe, as it may alter the texture and rise of the bread. Self-rising flour already contains leavening agents that help the bread to rise.

Can I omit the sour cream from the recipe?

The sour cream adds moisture and richness to the bread, so it is recommended to include it in the recipe. However, if you do not have sour cream on hand, you can try substituting it with an equal amount of plain Greek yogurt.

Can I use a different type of nuts instead of pecans?

Yes, you can experiment with different types of nuts in this recipe. Walnuts or almonds can be good alternatives to pecans if you prefer or have dietary restrictions.

Conclusion

I hope you enjoy baking and savoring every bite of this delightful Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread. As you take in the warm, comforting aroma wafting through your kitchen, remember that the joy of baking lies not just in the final product, but in the process itself. This recipe captures the essence of Southern hospitality and the rich flavors of pecans, making it a perfect treat to share with loved ones or enjoy during a quiet moment of self-indulgence.

So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let the sweet smells of pecans and warm spices fill your home. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread recipe is sure to bring a smile to your face and warmth to your soul. Embrace the simple pleasure of creating something delicious from scratch, and let this bread be a reminder that sometimes, the sweetest moments in life come from the simplest of gestures.

Delicious Southern Pecan Bread Recipe

Delicious Southern Pecan Bread Recipe

Indulge in the rich flavors of the South with this moist Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time10 Minutes
Cook Time40 Minutes
Total Time50 Minutes
CuisineSouthern
Skill LevelEasy
Servings9 Servings (9 squares)

Ingredients

Wet Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 tablespoon Steen’s cane syrup or light molasses
  • 2 large eggs

Dry Ingredients

  • 2/3 cup light brown sugar, packed
  • 1½ cups finely chopped pecans, divided
  • 1 cup self-rising flour
  • 2/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat oven to 350°F and grease an 8×8-inch glass baking pan generously with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
  2. Mix the Wet Ingredients: Combine eggs, sour cream, vegetable oil, cane syrup, and vanilla extract in a medium bowl. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
  3. Combine the Dry Ingredients: Combine self-rising flour, 1 cup of chopped pecans, both sugars, and salt in a large bowl, stirring until well mixed. Save remaining pecans for topping.
  4. Make the Batter: Combine wet and dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. It’s okay if there are a few lumps.
  5. Assemble for Baking: Evenly spread the batter in the prepared baking pan and sprinkle the remaining chopped pecans on top.
  6. Bake Until Golden: Bake for 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, and the top is golden brown and set.
  7. Cool and Serve: Allow the bread to cool fully in the pan before cutting into 9 squares in a 3×3 pattern to help it maintain its shape when sliced.