Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread

If you’ve ever bitten into a slice of Southern hospitality, you know there’s something magical about a freshly baked quick bread. Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread embodies that magic perfectly—soft, tender, and bursting with rich pecans and the deep sweetness of cane syrup. This classic Southern treat isn’t just bread; it’s a slice of tradition, a comfort food that feels like a warm hug straight from the heart of Alabama.

Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned home cook, this recipe promises simplicity without compromising flavor. In just under an hour, you’ll have a loaf—or, more accurately, a batch of nine glorious squares—ready to serve for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack.

Why This Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Stands Out

Southern quick breads have a special place in every kitchen, and this recipe takes the experience a notch higher. Here’s why this bread is exceptional:

• Tender, Moist Crumb: The combination of sour cream and vegetable oil ensures each bite is soft and moist.
• Rich, Authentic Flavor: Steen’s cane syrup (or light molasses) provides a unique depth of sweetness that’s unmistakably Southern.
• Crunchy Pecans: Pecans are folded into the batter and sprinkled on top, giving a satisfying contrast between soft bread and nutty crunch.
• Easy and Foolproof: Using self-rising flour simplifies the process, eliminating the need to measure baking powder separately.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm with butter, toasted with honey, or alongside coffee or tea for a perfect snack.

Ingredients Breakdown

For clarity and accuracy, here’s the full ingredient list, organized by components. This recipe yields 9 squares of delicious Southern bread.

Wet Ingredients

• 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

Dry Ingredients

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

Tools & Equipment Needed

To make this Southern quick bread successfully, you’ll need:

• 8×8-inch glass baking pan
• Two mixing bowls (medium and large)
• Wire whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Toothpick (for testing doneness)
• Spatula or spoon for folding batter
• Cooking spray or butter (for greasing the pan)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed steps to create a perfect Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread every time.

1. Preheat the oven and prepare your pan
   Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease an 8×8-inch glass baking pan with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking. This small step ensures your bread will release cleanly and maintain its shape.
2. Mix the wet ingredients
   In a medium bowl, whisk together:
   • 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
   Whisk until the mixture is smooth and slightly frothy. The sour cream and eggs provide moisture, while the oil adds tenderness.
3. Combine the dry ingredients
   In a separate large bowl, stir together:
   • 1 cup self-rising flour
   • 1 cup of the finely chopped pecans (reserve 1/2 cup for topping)
   • 2/3 cup granulated sugar
   • 2/3 cup light brown sugar
   • 1/4 teaspoon salt
   Ensure everything is evenly mixed to prevent pockets of flour or sugar.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients
   Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently fold until just combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. Overmixing can lead to a dense bread instead of a tender crumb.
5. Transfer batter and top with pecans
   Spread the batter evenly into your prepared pan. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup chopped pecans over the top for a beautiful, crunchy finish. This topping adds texture and visual appeal.
6. Bake the bread
   Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. The top should be golden brown and set.
7. Cool before slicing
   Let the bread cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, cut into 9 equal squares (3×3 pattern). Cooling is essential for clean slices and helps the bread hold together.

Tips & Variations

This Southern quick bread is versatile, and there are many ways to tweak it:

• Vegetarian: Already vegetarian-friendly.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute self-rising flour with a gluten-free blend plus 1 tsp baking powder.
• Vegan: Replace eggs with flax eggs (2 tbsp flaxseed meal + 6 tbsp water) and use plant-based yogurt instead of sour cream.
• Adjusting Sweetness: Reduce sugars slightly if you prefer a less sweet bread.
• Flavor Twists: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice profile.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

• Taste: Sweet, nutty, and slightly caramel-like from the cane syrup.
• Texture: Tender, moist crumb with a crunchy pecan topping.
• Best Served With: Butter, honey, or a light cream cheese spread. Pairs beautifully with coffee or tea for a Southern-inspired treat.

Nutritional Overview (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350
• Total Fat: 22 g
• Total Carbohydrate: 38 g
• Protein: 5 g

Dietary Notes: Vegetarian-friendly; contains eggs, dairy, gluten, and tree nuts.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Prep Ahead: Mix dry and wet ingredients separately in advance. Combine and bake just before serving.
• Storage: Store baked bread covered at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use regular molasses instead of Steen’s cane syrup?
   Yes, light molasses works beautifully, though cane syrup provides a slightly more delicate sweetness.
2. Why is my bread dense?
   Overmixing the batter can develop too much gluten, leading to a dense texture. Stir gently until combined.
3. Can I use butter instead of oil?
   You can, but oil helps retain moisture and tenderness in this quick bread. Butter may make it slightly firmer.
4. Can I substitute the pecans with another nut?
   Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds work, but pecans give the most authentic Southern flavor.
5. How do I prevent the bread from sticking?
   Generously grease your pan or line it with parchment paper. Cooling completely before slicing also helps.

Cooking Timeline at a Glance

Step	Time
Prep	10 minutes
Baking	40 minutes
Cooling & Slicing	10 minutes
Total	50 minutes

Serving Suggestions

• Slice squares and serve warm with butter for breakfast or brunch.
• Cut into smaller pieces for dessert alongside whipped cream or ice cream.
• Wrap slices in parchment for picnics or potlucks.

Recipe Variations

1. Chocolate Pecan Bread: Fold 1/4 cup chocolate chips into the batter.
2. Maple Pecan Bread: Replace cane syrup with pure maple syrup for a lighter sweetness.
3. Spiced Pecan Bread: Add 1 tsp cinnamon and 1/4 tsp nutmeg for a warm fall-inspired bread.
4. Fruit & Nut Bread: Toss in 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins for added texture and sweetness.

Ingredient Spotlight

Pecans

• Selection: Look for firm, plump pecans without shriveled pieces.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 months or freeze for longer.
• Enhancement: Toast lightly before chopping to intensify their nutty flavor.

Cane Syrup

• Selection: Steen’s cane syrup is traditional and offers an authentic Southern flavor.
• Substitute: Light molasses works if unavailable.
• Use Tip: Blend well with wet ingredients for even sweetness.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Gently fold the batter—overmixing is the most common mistake.
• Reserve some pecans for topping to maintain a crunchy texture.
• Use an 8×8-inch glass pan for even baking; metal pans may brown faster.
• Let the bread cool completely before slicing for cleaner cuts.

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Room Temperature: Store covered for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Wrap individual squares in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Avoid refreezing after thawing.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	350
Protein	5 g
Carbohydrates	38 g
Total Fat	22 g
Saturated Fat	3 g
Fiber	2 g

Dietary Notes: Vegetarian-friendly; contains gluten, dairy, and tree nuts.

Expanded Conclusion

Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is more than just a quick bread—it’s a little slice of Southern warmth in your own kitchen. Its tender crumb, rich pecan crunch, and subtle sweetness from cane syrup make it irresistible for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. The recipe is simple, approachable, and full of authentic flavor, perfect for any home cook looking to bring a taste of Alabama to the table.

Whether you bake it for a cozy morning, a brunch gathering, or a gift for a friend, this bread is guaranteed to impress. Don’t forget to experiment with variations, store some for later, and share it with loved ones. Once you try this bread, it will quickly become a beloved staple in your baking repertoire.

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