Indulge in the warm, nutty goodness of a homemade Pecan or Walnut Loaf that will have your taste buds dancing with delight! This delightful recipe combines the rich flavors of chopped nuts with a moist, fluffy texture that’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a cozy afternoon snack. With just a handful of ingredients and a little bit of love, you can create a loaf that not only fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma but also leaves your family and friends asking for seconds. Ready to impress? Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that will elevate your baking game!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 1 loaf
Ingredients
- 1 cup pecans or walnuts, chopped
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Thoroughly grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray, ensuring complete coverage to prevent sticking.
- In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This will help remove any lumps and ensure even distribution of leavening agents.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar using an electric mixer. Beat until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract, ensuring all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with milk. Mix on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough loaf.
- Fold in the chopped pecans or walnuts, reserving a small handful for optional topping.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. If desired, sprinkle the reserved nuts on top of the batter.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. To test for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf - it should come out clean with just a few moist crumbs.
- Remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, carefully turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, slice the loaf and serve. The loaf can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
Tips
- Choose Your Nuts Wisely: Whether you prefer the buttery taste of pecans or the rich flavor of walnuts, make sure to chop them coarsely for a delightful crunch in every bite.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and contributes to a lighter loaf.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the dry and wet ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf, so be gentle!
- Test for Doneness: Use a toothpick to check if your loaf is done baking. Insert it into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs—no wet batter!
- Cool Properly: Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This prevents it from becoming soggy and helps maintain its structure.
- Storage Tips: To keep your loaf fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay delicious for 3-4 days, but trust us, it won't last that long!
- Add a Twist: Feel free to experiment by adding chocolate chips, dried fruits, or spices like cinnamon to the batter for an extra flavor boost!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 42g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 65mg
