Pecan Bread

If you love the rich, nutty flavor of pecans wrapped in a soft, tender loaf, this Pecan Bread will steal your heart. It’s a sweet, buttery bread that’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack with coffee. Each slice is packed with crunchy pecans and just the right amount of sweetness, making it feel like a hug from the inside out.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect balance of sweet and nutty—pecans add a warm, toasty flavor that pairs beautifully with the moist crumb.
• Versatile—delicious on its own, toasted with butter, or as part of a holiday spread.
• Easy to make—no complicated techniques or special equipment needed.
• Stays fresh—the pecans help lock in moisture so it tastes amazing for days.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Toast the pecans before adding them to the batter for an even deeper flavor.
• Don’t overmix the batter—this keeps the bread light and tender.
• For a sweeter twist, sprinkle a little cinnamon sugar over the top before baking.
• Use fresh, good-quality pecans—they’re the star of the show.

Ingredients

For the Bread:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1½ cups granulated sugar
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup buttermilk
• ½ cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup chopped pecans

Optional Topping:

• ¼ cup chopped pecans
• 2 tbsp brown sugar

Instructions

1. Prep the oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
3. Combine wet ingredients: In another bowl, whisk eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla.
4. Bring it together: Pour wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined. Fold in pecans.
5. Fill the pan: Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan. If desired, sprinkle the optional topping over the batter.
6. Bake: Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Cool: Let bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Flavor & Texture Secrets

The combination of sweet batter and buttery pecans makes this bread rich without being heavy. The buttermilk keeps it moist, while the nuts add a satisfying crunch in every bite.

Serving Ideas

• Spread with softened butter or cream cheese for breakfast.
• Serve warm with a drizzle of honey for dessert.
• Pair with coffee or tea for an afternoon treat.

Storage Tips

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
• Freeze for up to 3 months—wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.
• Thaw at room temperature and warm in the oven for a fresh-baked taste.

FAQs

1. Can I use walnuts instead of pecans? Yes, walnuts work well, but pecans give a sweeter, richer flavor.
2. Can I make this into muffins? Absolutely—adjust the bake time to 18–22 minutes.
3. What if I don’t have buttermilk? Use 1 cup milk plus 1 tbsp lemon juice or vinegar as a substitute.
4. Can I add spices? Yes—try cinnamon or nutmeg for a cozy twist.
5. Can I make it gluten-free? Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Conclusion

Pecan Bread is a timeless, crowd-pleasing recipe that’s simple to make yet feels like something special. With its moist crumb, nutty crunch, and hint of sweetness, it’s the kind of bread you’ll find yourself baking again and again.

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Watch How to Make Pecan Bread