Chocolate Pecan Bread Recipe

Chocolate Pecan Bread is a rich and decadent treat, perfect for any occasion. With the combination of chocolate and crunchy pecans, this moist bread offers a comforting balance of sweet and nutty flavors. Whether you enjoy it as a breakfast option, a dessert, or a snack, this easy-to-make bread will satisfy your chocolate cravings.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, mixing until just combined.
6. Fold in the chopped pecans, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Cool the bread in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8 slices
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

• Chocolate Chips: For extra chocolatey goodness, add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the batter along with the chopped pecans.
• Other Nuts: If you don’t have pecans, walnuts or almonds can also work well in this recipe.
• Spices: You can add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra layer of flavor.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the butter with a plant-based butter and use almond milk for a dairy-free version of this bread.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This bread freezes well. Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Let it thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Reheating: To reheat slices, microwave them for 10-15 seconds, or warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes.

10 FAQs

1. Can I make this bread without eggs?
   Yes, you can use egg substitutes such as flax eggs or chia eggs for a vegan version.
2. Can I add more pecans to the recipe?
   Yes, feel free to increase the amount of chopped pecans for a more nutty flavor and texture.
3. Can I use self-rising flour instead of all-purpose flour?
   It’s not recommended, as self-rising flour already contains baking powder and salt. You would need to adjust the other ingredients accordingly.
4. Can I use non-dairy milk?
   Yes, you can substitute milk with almond milk, oat milk, or any other non-dairy milk you prefer.
5. Can I make this bread in a different size pan?
   Yes, if using a different pan size, keep an eye on the baking time, as it may vary.
6. Can I add other fruits to the bread?
   Yes, adding a handful of dried fruit, such as raisins or cranberries, would work nicely with the chocolate and pecans.
7. Can I make this bread gluten-free?
   Yes, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make this bread gluten-free.
8. How can I tell when the bread is done?
   When a toothpick or cake tester comes out clean from the center of the bread, it is fully baked.
9. What can I do if the top of the bread is getting too brown?
   If the top is browning too quickly, cover the bread loosely with aluminum foil and continue baking until done.
10. How can I make the bread sweeter?
    You can add a little more sugar or incorporate chocolate chips for additional sweetness.

Conclusion

Chocolate Pecan Bread is a simple yet delicious treat that combines rich cocoa, crunchy pecans, and a moist, tender crumb. Whether you enjoy it as a snack with coffee or as a dessert, this bread is sure to satisfy your chocolate cravings. It’s a versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit your preferences, making it a great addition to any baking repertoire. Enjoy a slice of this decadent bread with a glass of milk or a hot beverage for the perfect indulgence.

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