Ingredients:
For the Bread:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup chopped pecans (toasted, if desired)
For the Glaze (optional):
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
Prepare the Bread:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing until well combined. Add the vanilla extract.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in Pecans: Gently fold in the chopped pecans.
Bake the Bread:
- Transfer to Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top.
- Bake: Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
- Cool: Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare the Glaze (optional):
- Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the milk quantity to achieve your desired consistency.
- Drizzle: Once the bread has cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top.
Serve:
- Slice and enjoy your Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread!
This sweet and nutty bread is perfect for sharing or enjoying all on your own. Enjoy every slice!