Description
Easy Pecan Bread with a Crunch is everything a comforting bake should be—soft, buttery, nutty, and topped with a crisp, golden brown sugar crust. This Southern-inspired loaf is perfect for breakfast, gifting, or cozy coffee breaks. Packed with chopped pecans and just the right touch of sweetness, it’s a simple recipe that delivers bakery-quality flavor and texture at home.
Ingredients
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1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
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1 cup brown sugar (packed)
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2 large eggs (room temperature)
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½ cup unsalted butter (melted and slightly cooled)
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½ cup milk or buttermilk
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1 tsp baking soda
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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1 cup chopped pecans (divided)
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¼ tsp salt
Topping (for crunch):
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2 tbsp brown sugar
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¼ cup chopped pecans
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1 tbsp melted butter
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a standard 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
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In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
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In another bowl, mix melted butter, brown sugar, eggs, milk (or buttermilk), and vanilla extract until smooth.
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Gently combine the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined—do not overmix.
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Fold in ¾ cup of the chopped pecans.
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Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
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In a small bowl, mix the remaining ¼ cup chopped pecans, 2 tbsp brown sugar, and 1 tbsp melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the batter.
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Bake for 50–55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, tent loosely with foil for the final 10 minutes.
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Allow to cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!
Preparation Time:
Notes
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Lightly toast the pecans beforehand for deeper flavor.
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Add 1 tsp cinnamon or swirl in a cinnamon-sugar mix for a spiced variation.
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For a dessert version, fold in ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips.
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Wrap leftovers loosely to preserve the crunchy topping. Reheat in a toaster oven for best texture.
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This recipe can be made gluten-free using a 1:1 flour blend and a touch of xanthan gum.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Dessert / Tea Cake
- Cuisine: Southern American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (based on 8 slices)
- Calories: ~310 per serving
- Fat: ~18g
- Carbohydrates: ~34g
- Protein: ~4g