If you have a soft spot for cozy mornings and warm, comforting flavors, you are going to absolutely adore this Maple Pecan Bread Recipe. Imagine a loaf that combines the rich nuttiness of pecans with the sweetness of real maple syrup, all wrapped up in a tender, buttery crumb that feels like a hug from the inside. Whether you’re serving it up for a lazy weekend breakfast or bringing it to a holiday brunch, this bread is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings a touch of autumn magic right to your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows an overhead view of baking ingredients neat on a white marbled surface. There is a large white bowl filled with white flour on the right side, next to a single brown egg resting on a piece of white parchment paper. Below the egg is a small white dish with two slices of light yellow butter. In the lower center is a glass bowl of white powdered sugar. To the left is a small metal bowl with white salt, above it a glass of white milk. Above that is a small glass bowl with dark syrup. Near the top left is a small white bowl with light brown sugar. Above that is a metal bowl full of reddish-brown pecans, with a few pecan halves beside it. A small metal bowl with light beige yeast powder, and a small metal bowl with orange-brown cinnamon powder are also included. Near the top is a white bowl with melted butter. The setup is clean and simple, ingredients arranged clearly. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients is the first step to making magic happen in the kitchen. Each component plays a crucial role: from the warm cinnamon adding depth, to the pecans lending a satisfying crunch, every bite tells a story worth savoring.

2 cups flour: The backbone of the bread, providing structure and fluffiness.
1/2 cup maple syrup: Infuses natural sweetness and that signature maple flavor that makes this recipe special.
1/3 cup brown sugar: Adds caramel undertones and helps create a moist texture.
1/2 cup milk: Keeps the batter smooth and tender for the perfect crumb.
1/3 cup melted butter: Enriches the bread with buttery goodness and contributes to its soft texture.
1 egg: Binds all ingredients together and adds richness.
1 tsp baking powder: The leavening agent that ensures your bread rises beautifully.
1/2 tsp cinnamon: Introduces subtle warmth and enhances the maple flavors.
1 cup chopped pecans: Delivers crunch and a toasty nuttiness that makes every slice exciting.
1/4 tsp salt: Balances all the sweetness and boosts flavor overall.

How to Make Maple Pecan Bread Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, grease your loaf pan or line it with parchment paper—this ensures your maple pecan bread will come out easily without sticking, ready for slicing.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, maple syrup, milk, brown sugar, and egg until fully combined. This mix is wonderfully fragrant, hinting at the delicious bread soon to come, and it lays the creamy, flavorful base for your batter.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift or whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. This helps distribute the leavening agent evenly so your bread rises perfectly and the spices are consistent throughout.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Gently fold the dry ingredients into your wet mixture, being careful not to overmix. Overworking the batter can make the bread tough, but a few lumps are totally okay—they mean your bread will stay tender and moist.

Step 5: Stir in the Pecans

Finally, stir in the chopped pecans, giving the batter a delightful crunch boost. These nuggets of toasted flavor are what truly make this bread stand out from the crowd.

Step 6: Bake and Cool

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once done, allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a rack to cool completely—this step ensures it slices smoothly.

How to Serve Maple Pecan Bread Recipe

The image shows a close-up of a loaf topped with a thick layer of crunchy, golden-brown chopped nuts mixed with a sprinkle of light brown sugar crystals. The loaf has a rich, moist texture with a darker brown color that contrasts with the lighter, crumbly topping. The surface beneath the loaf is a white marbled texture, and parts of the background show some blurred kitchen items and potatoes. The whole scene captures the loaf in clear detail, showing the texture of the nuts and sugar on top and the soft bread underneath. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

You can amp up the appeal of your maple pecan bread by topping slices with a thin spread of butter or cream cheese for extra richness. A drizzle of pure maple syrup or a sprinkle of powdered sugar also adds a lovely touch of sweetness and presentation flair.

Side Dishes

This bread pairs beautifully with warm beverages like coffee, chai, or a spiced apple cider, making it perfect for breakfast or teatime. For a heartier brunch, serve alongside a fresh fruit salad or savory scrambled eggs to balance the sweet and nutty flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Looking to impress your guests? Slice the bread into cubes and serve it as part of a bread pudding or French toast bake, showcasing the maple pecan goodness in a new, exciting way. Alternatively, you can toast individual slices and top them with mascarpone and fresh berries for an elegant treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled completely, wrap your leftover maple pecan bread tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will keep fresh at room temperature for up to three days, making it great for quick breakfasts or snacks.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy the Maple Pecan Bread Recipe later, freeze the loaf wrapped securely in foil and then in a freezer-safe bag. It can last for up to three months when frozen. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge or at room temperature for a few hours.

Reheating

To bring back that freshly baked warmth, reheat slices in a toaster or oven at 300°F for about 5-8 minutes. This simple step revives the butteriness and soft texture, making each bite taste just like the day it came out of the oven.

FAQs

Can I substitute nuts in the Maple Pecan Bread Recipe?

Absolutely! While pecans add a unique flavor and crunch, walnuts or almonds work well too. Just chop them similarly to keep the texture consistent.

Is this bread gluten-free friendly?

This recipe uses all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. To make it gluten-free, try using a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour and check your baking powder for gluten-free labeling.

Can I add spices or extras to the recipe?

Yes! Feel free to add cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a handful of dried cranberries or chocolate chips to customize your loaf and make it your own.

What’s the best way to toast leftover Maple Pecan Bread?

Toasting leftover bread in a toaster or on a griddle with a bit of butter brings out its nutty flavor and crisp edges, making it perfect for a quick treat or breakfast.

Can I make mini loaves or muffins with this recipe?

Definitely! The batter works great for smaller portions; just reduce the baking time accordingly, keeping an eye on the bake to ensure it doesn’t overcook.

Final Thoughts

This Maple Pecan Bread Recipe is truly one of those treasures you’ll want to keep coming back to. It’s warm, inviting, and effortlessly impressive—whether you’re sharing with family or treating yourself. If you love simple ingredients transforming into something extraordinary, give this recipe a try and enjoy every fragrant, crunchy, sweet slice.