Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups chopped pecans (toasted for extra crunch)
- 1½ cups self-rising flour (or substitute with 1½ cups all-purpose flour + 1½ tsp baking powder + ½ tsp salt) 18
- 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil (or melted butter for a richer taste)Â
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp salt
Optional Add-Ins:
- Chocolate chips, cinnamon, or walnuts for variation.
Instructions
1. Prep the Oven and Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish (for thicker squares) or a 9×5-inch loaf pan (for a traditional loaf). Lightly dust with flour to prevent sticking.
2. Toast the Pecans
- Spread pecans on a baking sheet and toast in the preheating oven for 8–10 minutes until fragrant. This enhances their flavor and crunch.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients
- In a large bowl, whisk together brown sugar, granulated sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla until smooth. This creates a creamy, sweet base .
4. Add Dry Ingredients
- Gradually stir in self-rising flour and salt. Mix until just combined—overmixing can make the bread dense .
5. Fold in Pecans
- Gently fold the toasted pecans into the batter using a spatula. Ensure they’re evenly distributed .
6. Bake to Perfection
- Pour the batter into your prepared pan.
- Baking Time:
- 9×13-inch pan: 30–35 minutes
- Loaf pan: 50–60 minutes
- The bread is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, and the top is golden brown .
7. Cool and Serve
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with butter, ice cream, or a drizzle of honey .
Notes
Pro Tips for Success
- Room-Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs and buttermilk (if using) are at room temperature for a smoother batter .
- Avoid Overmixing: Stir until ingredients are just combined to keep the bread tender 7.
- Freezing: Wrap slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Creative Variations
- Chocolate Chip Pecan Bread: Add 1 cup of chocolate chips to the batter .
- Spiced Version: Mix in 1 tsp cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth .
- Buttermilk Twist: Replace oil with 1 cup buttermilk for a tangy, moist crumb.
- Prep Time: 15 Mins
- Cook Time: 35 Mins
- Category: Breakfast
- Cuisine: American, Southern