Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread

Introduction

There’s something truly comforting about the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen. Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread captures the essence of Southern hospitality with every slice. Soft, sweet, and studded with crunchy pecans, this recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and texture. Whether enjoyed warm out of the oven with a pat of butter or served at gatherings as a show-stopping dessert, this bread embodies everything you love about homemade baking. It’s simple, satisfying, and deeply nostalgic.

My recipe story

This recipe has a special place in my heart because it comes from my grandmother’s worn-out recipe box. Growing up in the South, pecans were a staple in nearly every dessert. She would collect fresh pecans from the trees in our backyard, shell them by hand, and add them to her famous pecan bread. The bread wasn’t just a recipe—it was an expression of love and tradition. Every holiday season, the smell of pecan bread filled our home, bringing everyone together. Over time, I’ve adapted the recipe slightly to make it more approachable for modern kitchens while preserving the warmth and authenticity of her original creation.

Ingredient breakdown

The beauty of Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread lies in its simplicity. Most of the ingredients are pantry staples, with pecans being the true star. You’ll need flour, sugar, eggs, butter, and a touch of vanilla to create the perfect batter base. The flour provides structure, while the sugar brings sweetness and helps with the caramelized crust that makes this bread irresistible.

The butter and eggs are essential for richness, giving the bread a moist, tender crumb. Vanilla adds depth of flavor, enhancing the nuttiness of the pecans. Speaking of pecans, they bring that signature crunch and earthy sweetness that makes this recipe stand out. Freshly toasted pecans add even more depth, but raw pecans work beautifully too. Together, these ingredients create a bread that’s both rustic and refined, a true Southern classic.

Equipment you’ll need

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk or hand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Loaf pan (9×5 inch)
• Cooling rack
• Parchment paper (optional for easy removal)

Step-by-step directions

Step 1: Prepare the oven and pan. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your loaf pan generously with butter or line it with parchment paper for easier removal. A well-prepped pan ensures your bread bakes evenly and comes out intact without sticking.

Step 2: Mix the dry ingredients. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. This step evenly distributes the leavening agent and prevents clumps, helping your bread rise beautifully while maintaining a soft texture.

Step 3: Combine the wet ingredients. In a separate bowl, beat together the eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and glossy. These ingredients add richness and moisture, creating a luscious base for the bread.

Step 4: Bring the batter together. Slowly fold the dry mixture into the wet mixture using a spatula. Stir just until combined—overmixing can lead to dense bread. The batter should be thick but pourable.

Step 5: Add the pecans. Gently fold in the chopped pecans, reserving a small handful to sprinkle on top. This ensures every slice is filled with crunchy, nutty goodness.

Step 6: Bake the bread. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it toward the end to avoid overbaking.

Step 7: Cool and serve. Let the bread rest in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack. This allows it to firm up, making slicing easier. Serve warm or at room temperature with butter, honey, or cream cheese.

Variations & substitutions

If you’d like to switch things up, there are plenty of ways to customize this bread. Swap out pecans for walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts for a different flavor profile. For added sweetness, mix in chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or chopped dates. If you prefer a lighter version, reduce the sugar slightly and replace half the butter with applesauce or Greek yogurt. You can also make this recipe gluten-free by using a cup-for-cup gluten-free flour blend. Each variation maintains the bread’s charm while giving it a unique twist.

Storage, freezing & make-ahead

This bread stores wonderfully, making it ideal for planning ahead. Wrap cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week. If you want to freeze it, wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen bread lasts up to 3 months. To serve, thaw slices at room temperature or warm them in the oven for a few minutes.

Serving ideas & pairings

Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread shines on its own, but you can elevate it with thoughtful pairings. Spread slices with cream cheese or honey butter for a luxurious breakfast. Pair it with fresh fruit or yogurt for a balanced brunch. For dessert, serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzle with caramel sauce. It also makes a wonderful companion to coffee or tea, making it a versatile addition to any table.

FAQ

Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar? Yes, brown sugar adds a deeper caramel flavor and extra moisture. You can substitute all or part of the sugar with brown sugar.

Do I need to toast the pecans first? While not required, toasting pecans enhances their flavor and makes them crunchier in the bread.

Can I make this recipe into muffins? Absolutely. Simply divide the batter into a muffin tin and bake for 18–22 minutes until golden brown.

Is this bread very sweet? It has a balanced sweetness, but you can reduce the sugar by ¼ cup if you prefer a less sweet version.

What’s the best way to slice the bread cleanly? Use a serrated bread knife and wait until the loaf has cooled slightly for neater slices.

Final thoughts

Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is more than just a recipe—it’s a slice of Southern tradition that brings warmth, comfort, and joy to every bite. With its rich buttery crumb, nutty crunch, and versatile serving options, this bread is perfect for any occasion, from holiday tables to everyday snacking. Once you bake it, it’s sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen, shared with loved ones for years to come.

Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread

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• Author: Sarah White
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 1 loaf (about 10 slices) 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is a moist, buttery Southern classic packed with crunchy pecans. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or gifting.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted

• 4 large eggs

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 2 cups chopped pecans (reserve some for topping)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.

2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.

3. In a separate bowl, beat eggs, melted butter, and vanilla until smooth and glossy.

4. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined; avoid overmixing.

5. Stir in chopped pecans, reserving a handful to sprinkle on top of the batter.

6. Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan, smooth the top, and bake for 45–55 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

7. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Toast pecans before adding for extra depth of flavor. Wrap leftovers tightly in plastic wrap to keep fresh for up to 3 days, or freeze slices for up to 3 months. Delicious with honey butter, cream cheese, or served warm with ice cream.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American