Ever had one of those days where you just need something cozy, sweet, and a little bit fancy—but with zero effort?
That’s where this maple pecan bread comes in. The first time I made it in my bread machine, the smell alone stopped everyone in their tracks.
There’s just something magical about the combo of warm maple and crunchy pecans that makes this loaf feel like a homemade hug.
Why This Bread Machine Recipe Is a Must-Try
This isn’t just another bread machine recipe—it’s one that blends warmth, texture, and nostalgic flavor in every bite. What makes it stand out?
- Perfect balance of soft and crunchy: The buttermilk gives it a tender crumb, while pecans add irresistible crunch.
- Just-sweet-enough: Maple syrup brings a mellow sweetness without overpowering the loaf.
- Hands-off baking: Your bread machine does all the heavy lifting.
- Year-round favorite: Cozy enough for fall, light enough for spring brunches.
- Customizable: Works great with different mix-ins or dairy-free tweaks.
It’s a low-effort, high-reward kind of recipe—ideal for busy weekdays, lazy weekends, or those “I need something homemade, now” moments.
How to Serve Maple Pecan Bread for Any Occasion
This loaf shines in so many situations—it’s basically a brunch MVP. A few of my favorite serving ideas:
- Sweet-and-savory breakfast sandwich: Slice thick, toast lightly, and layer with fried egg and peppered bacon.
- Elegant brunch tray: Cut into triangles and pair with whipped cream cheese, fresh fruit, or a spicy sausage dip.
- Lunch twist: Make a grilled chicken cordon bleu sandwich with deli ham and swiss on maple pecan bread.
- Afternoon pick-me-up: Serve warm with a pat of salted butter and a mug of tea or coffee.
- Giftable treat: Wrap in parchment and tie with string—perfect for hosts, holidays, or new neighbors.
It’s one of those loaves that somehow fits in everywhere—comforting, classy, and a little indulgent without going overboard.
Easy Variations to Fit Your Diet or Pantry
No buttermilk powder on hand? Avoiding dairy or nuts? You can still enjoy this bread machine recipe with a few easy swaps.
- Dairy-free: Use almond milk powder or coconut milk powder instead of buttermilk.
- Nut-free: Swap pecans for dried cranberries or leave the mix-ins out entirely.
- Vegan: Sub melted vegan butter and maple syrup for honey (if preferred).
- Extra texture: Add in sunflower seeds or oats with the pecans.
- Sweeter option: Increase maple syrup slightly and sprinkle the top with raw sugar before baking.
This recipe is flexible enough to adapt without losing its charm. Even with changes, it keeps that cozy maple essence you’ll crave again and again.
Tips for Bread Machine Success Every Time
Even the best bread machine recipes can flop without a few key tricks. Here’s how to make sure your maple pecan bread comes out just right:
- Layer ingredients in order: Always follow your machine’s guidelines—usually liquids first, yeast last.
- Room temperature water: Not too hot, not too cold—just warm enough to activate yeast.
- Add pecans at the beep: If your machine beeps for mix-ins, that’s your moment. If not, toss them in during the second knead cycle.
- Let it cool: As tempting as it is to slice immediately, wait at least 30 minutes. Trust me—it makes a big difference in texture.
Once you’ve nailed the timing and the ingredients, your bread machine becomes your secret weapon for bakery-quality loaves with none of the stress.
Make-Ahead, Freeze, and Gift This Beautiful Loaf
This isn’t just a loaf to bake and forget. It’s a giftable, freezable, always-in-demand kind of recipe.
- Meal prep win: Slice, wrap in parchment, and freeze for quick breakfasts or brunch boards.
- Holiday gifting: A wrapped loaf with a mini maple syrup bottle? Instant homemade charm.
- Batch baking: Double the recipe on a lazy Sunday and have one to freeze, one to enjoy.
- Picnic-perfect: Toast slices ahead, pack with nut butter or jam, and you’ve got a ready-to-go treat.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, this bread machine recipe adds comfort and a touch of sweetness to any moment.
Easy Maple Pecan Bread Machine Recipe
Equipment
- Bread machine with Basic/White program
- 1½- to 2-pound loaf capacity pan
Ingredients
Basic Version: 1½-Pound Loaf
- 1 cup water
- 2 tbsp butter melted
- 3 tbsp maple syrup
- 3 cups bread flour
- ⅓ cup dry buttermilk powder
- 1½ tsp kosher salt
- 1¾ tsp yeast
Mix-ins:
- ½ cup chopped pecans
Larger Version: 2-Pound Loaf
- 1½ cups water
- 2 tbsp butter melted
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- 4 cups bread flour
- ½ cup dry buttermilk powder
- 2 tsp kosher salt
- 2¼ tsp yeast
Mix-ins:
- ¾ cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- Add the ingredients to your bread machine’s baking pan in the order listed for your selected loaf size—starting with water and ending with yeast.
- Place chopped pecans in your machine’s nut dispenser if available. If not, keep them in a bowl nearby.
- Choose the Basic/White bread cycle setting on your machine.
- Select the appropriate loaf size (1½ or 2 pounds) and press start.
- If your machine does not have a nut dispenser, add the pecans manually during the second kneading cycle when the machine beeps.
- Once the loaf is done, remove it carefully from the bread pan and place it on a wire rack to cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing.
Notes
- For added texture, lightly toast the chopped pecans before adding.
- Use pure maple syrup for the best flavor.
- This bread pairs beautifully with both sweet and savory toppings.
Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.