1. Prepare Your Baking Dish:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or two standard loaf pans with non-stick spray or butter.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vegetable oil (or melted butter) until smooth.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and buttermilk.
4. Incorporate the Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bread dense.
5. Add Pecans and Coconut:
- Fold in the chopped pecans and shredded coconut (if using). Ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
6. Bake the Bread:
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish or loaf pans.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes (for a 9×13-inch dish) or 40–45 minutes (for loaf pans), or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool and Serve:
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
- Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
Tips for Perfect Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread:
- Pecan Toasting Tip: Toast the pecans before adding them to the batter to enhance their flavor. Simply spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes until fragrant.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This bread also freezes well; wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Variations: Add a handful of chocolate chips or dried cranberries for a fun twist.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is a celebration of Southern flavors and comfort. The buttery pecans, moist crumb, and subtle sweetness create a treat that’s impossible to resist. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.