1-2-3 Pecan Loaf
A moist, nutty pecan loaf with a tender crumb and hint of orange, perfect for teatime or as a delightful dessert for nut lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the vegetable shortening with sugar in a large bowl.
- Add the sifted flour, baking powder, salt, and orange extract alternately with the milk, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the beaten eggs and chopped pecans.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9 x 5-inch loaf pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour and 10 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the loaf to cool before removing from the pan and slicing.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider using cake flour instead of all-purpose flour. You can substitute the vegetable shortening with unsalted butter or coconut oil for a richer flavor. If you want to enhance the pecan flavor, try lightly toasting the nuts before adding them to the batter. This cake is reminiscent of American recipes that celebrate nutty, sweet flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of the pecan loaf warm or at room temperature with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of honey. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea for breakfast or an afternoon snack. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside Candied Sweet Potatoes And Apples as a delightful contrast.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, place it in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, slice the loaf and warm it in a toaster oven or microwave until just heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 1-2-3 Pecan Loaf contains roughly 435 calories, with 3g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 44g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (13% of the Daily Value) and calcium (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1115mg per serving (48% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different nuts in this recipe?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for pecans, you can easily substitute walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts based on your preference. Just make sure to chop them roughly to maintain the texture of the loaf.
What can I do if I don't have orange extract?
If you don't have orange extract on hand, you can substitute with an equal amount of fresh orange zest or even lemon extract for a different citrus twist. Both options will add a refreshing note to the loaf.
How can I tell when the loaf is done baking?
The loaf is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Additionally, the top should be golden brown and spring back when lightly pressed. If it seems undercooked, extend the baking time by a few minutes.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).