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
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup brown sugar (packed)
2 large eggs (room temperature)
½ cup unsalted butter (melted and slightly cooled)
½ cup milk or buttermilk
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup chopped pecans (divided)
¼ tsp salt
Topping (for crunch):
2 tbsp brown sugar
¼ cup chopped pecans
1 tbsp melted butter
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a standard 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
In another bowl, mix melted butter, brown sugar, eggs, milk (or buttermilk), and vanilla extract until smooth.
Gently combine the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined—do not overmix.
Fold in ¾ cup of the chopped pecans.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
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.
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.
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
Lightly toast the pecans beforehand for deeper flavor.
Add 1 tsp cinnamon or swirl in a cinnamon-sugar mix for a spiced variation.
For a dessert version, fold in ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips.
Wrap leftovers loosely to preserve the crunchy topping. Reheat in a toaster oven for best texture.
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