If you’re searching for the ultimate sweet treat that’s both comforting and a little bit indulgent, the Honey Butter Pecanbread Recipe is exactly what you need. This Southern-inspired marvel combines the nutty crunch of pecans, the warm sweetness of honey and brown sugar, and the rich softness brought by butter and vanilla. Whether you’re baking it for a family gathering or a cozy afternoon snack, this pecanbread is bursting with flavor and has a moist, tender crumb that keeps you coming back for more. It’s a surefire way to bring a little sunshine to your kitchen and smiles around the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, wholesome ingredients come together perfectly in this recipe. Each one plays a crucial role in building the texture, flavor, and aroma that make the Honey Butter Pecanbread Recipe so irresistible.
- 2 cups pecans, finely chopped: Adds that signature crunchy texture and rich nutty flavor.
- 1 ½ cups self-rising flour: Provides the perfect structure with a gentle rise and lightness.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Balances sweetness while enhancing the bread’s golden color.
- 1 cup brown sugar: Infuses the batter with warm caramel notes and moisture.
- 1 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the bread moist and tender without overpowering flavors.
- 4 large eggs, beaten: Bind everything together and contribute richness.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Elevates all the flavors with its lovely aromatic touch.
- ¼ tsp salt: Amplifies sweetness and balances flavors for harmony.
- ¼ cup honey: The star ingredient that imparts natural sweetness and a subtle floral hint.
- 2 tbsp melted butter: Adds a buttery richness that makes each slice melt in your mouth.
How to Make Honey Butter Pecanbread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven
To start things off right, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or a nonstick spray to ensure your pecanbread comes out perfectly without sticking. This step sets the stage for even baking and an easy release.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, beaten eggs, and vegetable oil. Stir them together until the mixture becomes smooth and glossy. This is where the magic begins as the sugars dissolve and blend with the eggs to create a luscious base for your batter.
Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the self-rising flour and salt into your wet mixture. Mix just until everything is combined — avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender and moist. This careful mixing develops just enough structure without making the bread dense.
Step 4: Add Flavorings
Next, stir in the vanilla extract, honey, and melted butter. These ingredients infuse the batter with unmistakable warmth and buttery sweetness. The honey especially gives it that characteristic shine and depth that sets this pecanbread apart.
Step 5: Fold in Pecans
Gently fold the finely chopped pecans into the batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed without crushing them. The pecans add a delightful crunch and rich aroma that will fill your kitchen as the bread bakes.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center — it should come out mostly clean with just a few moist crumbs. This perfect bake time guarantees a moist center with a slightly crisp top crust.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, let your Honey Butter Pecanbread sit undisturbed for about 15 minutes before slicing. This resting period helps the flavors settle and makes slicing neater. Then get ready to enjoy slices that are slightly warm, buttery, and bursting with pecan goodness.
How to Serve Honey Butter Pecanbread Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of powdered sugar or an extra drizzle of honey on top of warm pecanbread elevates its look and sweetness. For a touch of contrast, add a few toasted pecans on the surface just before serving. These simple garnishes make the bread irresistible and camera-ready.
Side Dishes
Honey Butter Pecanbread pairs beautifully with fresh fruit like sliced pears or berries. For a hearty combo, serve alongside creamy whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It’s also divine with a hot cup of coffee or tea, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your pecanbread into delightful mini loaf cakes by dividing the batter into muffin tins. Or, cut it into bite-sized pieces and serve as a sweet appetizer with soft cheese spreads. Wrapping individual slices in parchment paper makes a lovely gift that friends and family will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Honey Butter Pecanbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps the bread moist and preserves its delightful nutty crunch. For longer storage, the refrigerator works but make sure it’s wrapped tightly to prevent drying out.
Freezing
This pecanbread freezes wonderfully! Wrap individual slices or the whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. Freeze for up to two months, then thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature for a fresh-baked taste anytime you crave it.
Reheating
For best results when reheating, warm slices in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 325°F for about 5 to 10 minutes. This revives the buttery aroma and gives the crust a pleasant slight crispness without drying the inside.
FAQs
Can I use regular flour instead of self-rising flour?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with the addition of 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder and ½ teaspoon salt to mimic self-rising flour. This keeps your pecanbread light and fluffy just like the original recipe.
How can I make this recipe nut-free?
To make a nut-free version, simply omit the pecans and consider adding sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for texture. The honey and butter still keep the bread rich and flavorful.
Is this bread sweet enough for dessert?
Absolutely! The combination of brown sugar, honey, and vanilla gives this pecanbread a delightful sweetness. It’s sweet enough to enjoy for dessert but balanced so it can also be a fantastic breakfast treat.
Can I add chocolate chips to the pecanbread?
Definitely! Adding half a cup of chocolate chips gives a wonderful gooey contrast to the crunchy pecans and buttery batter. Mix them in with the pecans just before baking for little pockets of melty chocolate.
What’s the best way to chop pecans for this recipe?
For best texture, finely chop the pecans rather than grinding them. Using a sharp knife and cutting them into small but distinct pieces helps distribute the nutty crunch evenly throughout the bread.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend the Honey Butter Pecanbread Recipe enough for anyone who loves a moist, flavorful treat packed with comforting Southern charm. It’s straightforward to make, uses familiar ingredients, and delivers such satisfying results every time. Give this recipe a try and watch it become a beloved classic in your home as it has in mine.
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Honey Butter Pecanbread Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern United States
Description
Honey Butter Sweet Alabama Pecanbread is a moist and flavorful southern-style dessert bread featuring a rich blend of sugars, honey, butter, and crunchy pecans. Baked to golden perfection, this pecan bread balances sweetness with nutty texture, making it an irresistible treat for gatherings or a delightful everyday indulgence.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups self-rising flour
- ¼ tsp salt
- 2 cups pecans, finely chopped
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs, beaten
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ cup honey
- 2 tbsp melted butter
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, beaten eggs, and vegetable oil. Stir these together until the mixture is smooth and consistent.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the self-rising flour and salt into the wet mixture, folding them in gently while mixing only until just combined to avoid overmixing and developing the gluten.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in the vanilla extract, honey, and melted butter until these ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Fold in Pecans: Carefully fold the finely chopped pecans into the batter to ensure even nut distribution without deflating the mixture.
- Bake: Pour the prepared batter into your greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean, indicating doneness.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool for about 15 minutes in the pan before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature for optimal flavor and texture.
Notes
- Ensure not to overmix the batter when combining dry and wet ingredients to maintain a tender crumb.
- Using self-rising flour simplifies the recipe by including the necessary leavening agent; if unavailable, substitute with all-purpose flour plus baking powder.
- Store leftover pecan bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for extended storage.
- The honey and melted butter add moisture and depth of flavor that distinguish this pecan bread from others.
- You can toast the pecans lightly before folding them in for a deeper nutty flavor if desired.
