Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe

If you’re looking for a soul-warming treat that feels just as perfect with a cup of coffee at breakfast as it does after Sunday supper, Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is destined to become a favorite in your kitchen. This Southern classic is equal parts nostalgic and irresistible, mixing the buttery crunch of pecans with the golden sweetness of brown sugar for a loaf that’s as comforting as it is decadent. Whether you’re baking it for your holiday table, sharing squares with neighbors, or sneaking a piece after midnight, Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread rises to every occasion with delicious ease.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a handful of everyday ingredients, you’re well on your way to a loaf that’s brimming with flavor and charm. Each one plays an important supporting role, working together to create that signature chewy texture and pecan-rich bite!

• Light brown sugar (1 cup, packed): Delivers warmth and a hint of caramel, making every bite extra luscious.
• Granulated sugar (½ cup): Adds the sparkle and balanced sweetness you expect in a great quick bread.
• Chopped pecans (1 cup): The true stars here, bringing nutty crunch and unmistakable Southern flavor.
• All-purpose flour (1 cup): Provides structure so the bread holds together but still stays tender.
• Large eggs (2): Essential for binding everything together and giving an appealing richness.
• Vegetable oil (½ cup): Keeps the loaf moist and delicious, even after a couple of days.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): A dash of vanilla goes a long way towards enhancing the pecan and sugar flavors.
• Baking powder (½ teaspoon): Offers a gentle rise, ensuring your bread is never too dense.
• Salt (¼ teaspoon): Brings all the sweetness and nuttiness into balance for a crave-worthy finish.

How to Make Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread

Step 1: Prep the Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take a moment to grease an 8×8-inch baking dish (or line it with parchment for easy removal later). This step ensures that your Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread comes out cleanly and looks picture-perfect when sliced.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a roomy mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, granulated sugar, chopped pecans, and all-purpose flour. Stir everything together so the pecans and sugars are well distributed. This helps every square of pecan bread have a proper share of nuts and sweetness.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

Grab another bowl and whisk together the eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until the mixture looks smooth and a bit glossy. The eggs and oil will make your batter rich and tender, while the vanilla works its background magic.

Step 4: Bring Wet and Dry Together

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Gently stir with a spatula or wooden spoon until everything is just combined—don’t overmix. You want to keep the batter slightly lumpy and loose, which helps create the unique, chewy crumb of Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Spoon the batter into your prepared pan and spread it out evenly. Slide it into the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top turns a gorgeous golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean from the center. Let the bread cool in the pan before slicing into generous squares.

How to Serve Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread

Garnishes

You can keep it simple with a dusting of powdered sugar, or really dress things up by drizzling a little vanilla glaze or caramel over the top. For a crunchy touch, a few extra toasted pecans sprinkled on just before serving look beautiful and taste even better.

Side Dishes

This bread fits right in at brunch alongside creamy scrambled eggs, fruit salad, or even a tart yogurt parfait. It also plays well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for dessert when you’re in the mood for something a touch more decadent.

Creative Ways to Present

Try cutting your Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread into bite-sized cubes to serve as part of a dessert board, or wrap individual squares in parchment and twine for a charming edible gift. During the holidays, a platter of these golden squares makes a show-stopping centerpiece among a spread of assorted treats.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once completely cooled, store leftover Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread tightly wrapped at room temperature. It’ll stay moist and flavorful for up to four days, making it perfect for snacking all week long!

Freezing

If you want to stock up, this bread freezes beautifully. Simply wrap the squares individually in plastic wrap, then tuck them into a freezer bag. They’ll keep their flavor and texture for up to three months, ready for whenever the craving strikes.

Reheating

To recapture that just-baked warmth, pop a square in the microwave for about 10–15 seconds, or briefly heat in a 300°F oven. This revives the bread’s soft, chewy texture and brings out the toasted pecan aroma once more.

FAQs

Can I substitute walnuts for pecans?

Absolutely! While pecans are traditional in Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread, chopped walnuts work well and offer their own lovely, earthy flavor. Just swap in equal amounts for a different, but delicious twist.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute your favorite 1-to-1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. The bread will be just as tasty and still get that craveable chewy texture.

Can I double the recipe for a bigger crowd?

For sure! Simply double all the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch dish. Keep an eye on the baking time—you may need to add a few extra minutes, but the results will be just as delightful.

What’s the best way to toast pecans?

Toasting is easy: spread the chopped pecans in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for about 7–8 minutes, stirring once, until fragrant. Let them cool before adding to your batter for even more flavor in your Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread.

How do I know when it’s finished baking?

The best sign is a deep golden top and a toothpick inserted into the center coming out mostly clean, with just a few moist crumbs. If it’s not quite there, give it another couple of minutes, checking carefully to avoid overbaking.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend trying Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread enough, especially if you cherish recipes that are both comforting and deeply satisfying. Each slice captures the spirit of Southern hospitality, and it’s so simple, there’s really no excuse not to bake a batch soon. Share it with friends, savor it with family, or sneak a square just for yourself—you’re in for something truly special.

Print