Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread | Southern Classic Recipe

Southern baking is known for its warmth, comfort, and rich flavors, and Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread embodies all of those qualities in one irresistible recipe. With its dense, moist crumb, caramel-like sweetness, and crunchy pecans baked throughout, this bread has become a staple at gatherings and potlucks across the South. More cake-like than traditional bread, it strikes the perfect balance between a quick bread and a dessert bar, making it versatile enough to enjoy at breakfast, as a snack, or even as a dessert. If you’re looking for a no-fuss recipe that delivers Southern charm in every bite, Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is a must-try.

Ingredients (with detailed measurements)

For one 9×13-inch pan of pecan bread, you will need:

• 1 ½ cups (300 g) granulated sugar

• 1 cup (200 g) packed light brown sugar

• 4 large eggs, room temperature

• 1 cup (240 ml) vegetable oil (or canola oil)

• 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour

• 2 teaspoons baking powder

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 2 cups (240 g) chopped pecans (toasted for extra flavor)

Optional for added depth:

• ½ teaspoon cinnamon

• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg

The combination of sugars provides a rich caramelized sweetness, while the generous amount of pecans ensures nutty crunch in every slice.

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Instructions (Step-by-Step Guide)

Step 1: Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly flour it, or line with parchment paper for easier removal.

Step 2: Combine wet ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and eggs until well blended. Add the oil and vanilla extract, whisking until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened.

Step 3: Mix dry ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and optional spices. This ensures even distribution and prevents clumps.

Step 4: Create the batter

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Do not overmix, as this can make the bread tough.

Step 5: Add the pecans

Fold in the chopped pecans, reserving a handful to sprinkle on top before baking if desired. Toasting the pecans beforehand deepens their flavor and aroma.

Step 6: Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with only a few moist crumbs. The top should be golden brown.

Step 7: Cool and serve

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This helps it set and makes cutting easier. Serve warm for a gooey texture, or let cool completely for neater slices.

Conservation and Storage

• Room Temperature: Store slices in an airtight container for up to 3 days. A layer of wax paper between slices prevents sticking.

• Refrigeration: Keeps for up to 1 week. Bring to room temperature before serving for best flavor.

• Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight at room temperature before serving.

Variations

Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is adaptable and can be tailored to suit your taste:

• Glazed Pecan Bread: Drizzle with a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk for extra sweetness.

• Chocolate Chip Twist: Add ½ cup mini chocolate chips to the batter for a decadent touch.

• Spiced Pecan Bread: Increase the cinnamon and add cloves or ginger for a festive holiday version.

• Nut Mix: Replace half the pecans with walnuts or almonds for varied flavor and crunch.

• Mini Loaves or Muffins: Divide batter into mini loaf pans or muffin tins and reduce bake time to 18–22 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile bread fits into many occasions:

• Serve warm with a pat of butter or cream cheese for breakfast.

• Pair with coffee or tea as an afternoon snack.

• Present as a sweet side dish at holiday meals.

• Top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a simple dessert.

• Wrap in parchment and ribbon for a homemade gift.

Tips for Perfecting the Dish

• Toast the pecans before adding them to intensify flavor.

• Do not overmix the batter once flour is added; overmixing can lead to toughness.

• Check for doneness early at 28 minutes, as ovens vary.

• Use fresh pecans—rancid nuts will ruin the flavor.

• Cool before slicing if you want clean edges; serve warm if you like gooier, brownie-like pieces.

Conclusion

Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is a Southern favorite that captures the essence of home baking—rich, nutty, and irresistibly sweet. With its simple preparation, adaptability, and crowd-pleasing flavor, it works for breakfast, snacking, or dessert. The pecans add crunch and depth, while the soft, cake-like crumb ensures every bite is satisfying. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or explore variations with chocolate, spices, or glazes, this bread guarantees a treat that feels both nostalgic and indulgent. Once you make it, you’ll see why it has become a beloved recipe in Southern kitchens and beyond.

Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread

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• Author: Eleanor
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 1 pan (about 12–15 slices) 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A moist, rich Southern-style pecan bread made with brown sugar, vanilla, and plenty of crunchy pecans. Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is simple to prepare and perfect for breakfast, snacking, or dessert.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 ½ cups (300 g) granulated sugar

• 1 cup (200 g) packed light brown sugar

• 4 large eggs, room temperature

• 1 cup (240 ml) vegetable oil (or canola oil)

• 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour

• 2 teaspoons baking powder

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 2 cups (240 g) chopped pecans (toasted for best flavor)

Optional:

• ½ teaspoon cinnamon

• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg

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Instructions

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or line with parchment.

• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, brown sugar, and eggs until smooth.

• Add oil and vanilla, whisking until combined.

• In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt, and optional spices.

• Gradually fold dry ingredients into wet mixture until just combined. Do not overmix.

• Stir in chopped pecans, reserving a few for topping.

• Pour batter into prepared pan, spread evenly, and sprinkle remaining pecans on top.

• Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

• Cool in the pan for 15 minutes before slicing.

Notes

• Toast pecans lightly before adding for deeper flavor.

• Don’t overmix once flour is added to avoid toughness.

• Add a glaze (powdered sugar + milk) for extra sweetness if serving as dessert.

• Cool completely for clean slices, or serve warm for a gooier texture.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Quick Bread / Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Southern / American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 310 kcal
• Sugar: 28 g
• Sodium: 140 mg
• Fat: 17 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 38 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Cholesterol: 35 mg

Keywords: Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread, Southern pecan bread, pecan loaf, Alabama dessert bread, easy pecan bread recipe