Beer Spice Bread

12 servings Prep: 15 m Cook: 45 m Total: 1 h Beginner
Beer Spice Bread
I made this spiced quick bread with beer, butter, cinnamon, and nutmeg and took it to work. Everyone raved about how good it was! The beer adds moisture and a subtle malty sweetness that perfectly complements the warm spices and crunchy pecans.

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 1/2 cup plain flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp nutmeg
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 cup beer
  • 1/2 cup pecans, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Grease and flour a 9x5-inch loaf pan.
  2. Sift together flour, baking powder, nutmeg, cinnamon, baking soda and salt. Set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar, mixing well. Add eggs and beat.
  4. Add in flour mixture, alternating with beer, and mix well to combine.
  5. Fold in the chopped pecans.
  6. Pour into a loaf pan. Bake at 375 degrees for 40-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the cake comes out clean.

Common Problems and Solutions

Q: Can I use any type of beer for this recipe?

A: Yes, most beers work well. A mild lager or ale gives the best results without overpowering the spices. Avoid heavily hopped IPAs or dark stouts unless you want a stronger beer flavor.

Q: Why is my bread dense instead of light?

A: Make sure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh. Also, don't overmix the batter after adding the flour mixture and beer—mix just until combined to keep the bread tender.

Tips and Techniques

Don’t skip softening the butter—it creams better with the sugar and creates a lighter texture. You can use room temperature beer or cold beer straight from the fridge; both work fine.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • beer: non-alcoholic beer or apple cider
  • pecans: walnuts or omit

Equipment Needed

  • 9x5-inch loaf pan
  • mixing bowls
  • sifter or fine mesh strainer
  • electric mixer or hand mixer