Description
A Southern-inspired sweet bread, loaded with pecans and infused with the rich flavors of honey and butter. This pecan bread is moist, decadent, and perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.
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
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick cooking spray. Ensuring the pan is well-greased prevents the bread from sticking, allowing for easy removal and clean slices.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, beaten eggs, and vegetable oil. Mix until these ingredients are thoroughly combined, creating a smooth and emulsified base for the bread. The sugars provide sweetness, the eggs add richness and structure, and the oil contributes to the bread’s moistness.
Step 3: Gradually stir in the self-rising flour and salt. Mix until just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix the batter at this stage. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, leading to a tough Pecanbread. Mix until the flour disappears into the wet ingredients.
Step 4: Add the vanilla extract, honey, and melted butter. These ingredients add depth of flavor to the bread. The vanilla enhances the sweetness, the honey provides a unique floral note, and the melted butter enriches the bread’s texture.
Step 5: Gently fold in the chopped pecans. Ensure that the pecans are evenly distributed throughout the batter. Their nutty flavor and crunchy texture are essential to the Pecanbread’s character.
Step 6: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. This ensures that the Pecanbread bakes uniformly, without creating any dense or undercooked areas.
Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so it’s essential to check for doneness. A few moist crumbs clinging to the toothpick are acceptable, but the batter should not be wet or liquid.
Step 8: Let the Pecanbread cool in the dish for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving. Cooling allows the bread to set and makes it easier to slice without crumbling.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Honey Butter Sweet Alabama Pecanbread recipe delivers a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The sweetness of the sugars and honey is balanced by the nutty flavor of the pecans, while the butter adds a rich, melt-in-your-mouth quality. It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort for a maximum taste payoff. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this Pecanbread is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm with a pat of butter for a simple yet satisfying treat.
- Accompany it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
- Pair it with a cup of hot coffee or tea for a cozy breakfast or afternoon snack.
- Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant presentation.
- Toast slices for a crispier texture.
Tips:
- For an even richer flavor, toast the pecans lightly before chopping and adding them to the batter.
- Be careful not to overbake the Pecanbread, as it can become dry.
- Store any leftover Pecanbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- To freeze, wrap the Pecanbread tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, or place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw completely before serving.
- Experiment with different types of nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, for a variation on the recipe.
- Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, spiced flavor.
Preparation Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
30-35 minutes
Total Time:
45-50 minutes
Nutrition Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving size.)
- Calories: 350-450 per slice
- Protein: 4-6 grams per slice
- Sodium: 150-200 mg per slice
Conclusion
The Honey Butter Sweet Alabama Pecanbread is a delightful treat that brings together the best of Southern flavors. Its moist texture, sweet taste, and nutty crunch make it a standout recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy baking and sharing this delicious Pecanbread with your friends and family!
Questions and Answers
Q1: Can I use all-purpose flour instead of self-rising flour?
A: No, self-rising flour contains baking powder and salt, which are essential for the bread’s rise and texture. If you use all-purpose flour, you’ll need to add baking powder (about 1 1/2 teaspoons) and salt (1/4 teaspoon) to the recipe.
Q2: Can I reduce the amount of sugar in this recipe?
A: Yes, you can reduce the sugar slightly, but keep in mind that it will affect the texture and sweetness of the bread. Start by reducing each sugar by 1/4 cup and see if you like the result.
Q3: How do I know when the Pecanbread is done baking?
A: Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out mostly clean, with just a few moist crumbs clinging to it, the Pecanbread is done. Avoid overbaking, as it can become dry.
Q4: Can I add chocolate chips to this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Chocolate chips would be a delicious addition. Fold about 1 cup of chocolate chips into the batter along with the pecans.
Q5: What is the best way to store leftover Pecanbread?
A: Store leftover Pecanbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, or place it in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw completely before serving.
