If you are looking for a delightful, nutty treat that feels like a warm hug in every bite, the Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe is exactly what you need to try. This classic Southern bread combines rich brown sugar sweetness with crunchy pecans, creating a moist, tender crumb that’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an anytime snack. Whether you’re new to baking or an experienced pro, this recipe invites you to enjoy a simple but deeply satisfying treat that will quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind the Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe lies in its straightforward yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each component plays a vital role, from the sweetness of brown sugar to the slight crunch of pecans, contributing to a beautifully textured and flavorful loaf you’ll want to make again and again.
- Brown sugar, packed (1 cup): Provides deep caramel notes and moisture for a soft crumb.
- Granulated sugar (½ cup): Adds a balanced sweetness and helps with browning.
- Vegetable oil (1 cup): Keeps the bread tender and moist without overpowering flavors.
- Large eggs (4): Bind ingredients and create structure for the bread.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances overall flavor with a warm, fragrant aroma.
- All-purpose flour (1 ½ cups): The foundation that gives the bread its body and texture.
- Baking powder (1 teaspoon): Helps the bread rise to a perfect height and fluffiness.
- Salt (¼ teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor complexity.
- Chopped pecans (1 cup): Adds crunch and nutty richness throughout the bread.
- Whole pecans (½ cup, optional): Used as a beautiful topping that toasts in the oven, adding texture and visual appeal.
How to Make Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Your Pan
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) and making sure your baking dish is ready. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for an easy release once your bread is baked. This simple prep ensures your bread comes out perfectly every time.
Step 2: Whisk Sugars and Oil Together
In a large bowl, combine the packed brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vegetable oil. Whisk these ingredients until smooth and thoroughly blended. This mixture is the sweet, moist base that makes the bread so irresistible.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Follow with a splash of vanilla extract to infuse a lovely depth of flavor that warms every bite.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures that your leavening is evenly distributed and your bread rises consistently.
Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Overmixing can make bread tough, so stop when no streaks of flour remain and your batter is smooth.
Step 6: Fold in Chopped Pecans
Carefully fold in the chopped pecans, distributing their crunchy, nutty goodness throughout the batter without breaking them down. These pecans are the signature crunch that make this bread stand out.
Step 7: Pour Batter and Decorate
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. If you like, arrange the whole pecans over the surface for that classic, rustic look and extra texture once baked.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Bake the bread in your preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes. The bread is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, signaling a moist but fully cooked loaf.
Step 9: Cool and Enjoy
Allow the bread to cool before slicing into squares. This resting time lets the flavors develop and the bread firm up for clean cuts. Serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy every nutty, sweet bite!
How to Serve Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey complements the natural sweetness and pecan flavor wonderfully. You can also spread a bit of creamy butter or cream cheese on warm slices for added richness.
Side Dishes
This bread pairs beautifully with a cup of hot coffee or tea for breakfast or afternoon treats. For a heartier meal, serve alongside fresh fruit or a bowl of creamy soup to balance its sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the bread into small cubes and serve with a cheese platter to bring contrast in textures and flavors. Or, toast slices lightly and top with whipped honey butter and cinnamon for a playful twist. Presentation is key to making this nostalgic bread a highlight of any gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps the bread moist and fresh, ready to be enjoyed without losing its signature texture.
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, wrap the entire loaf or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to two months, so you can enjoy a slice of this wonderful bread whenever the craving strikes.
Reheating
To revive frozen or stored bread, pop a slice in the toaster or oven for a few minutes until warmed through. This refreshes the bread’s soft crumb and highlights the flavor of those toasted pecans beautifully.
FAQs
Can I substitute the vegetable oil with butter?
Yes, you can use melted butter instead of vegetable oil for a richer flavor, but it may slightly change the texture, making it a bit denser. Both options work well, so choose based on your preference.
Are there alternatives if I don’t have pecans?
While pecans are traditional and provide the signature flavor, you might substitute walnuts or almonds if needed. Each nut will bring a slightly different taste but still add that lovely crunch.
Can I make this bread gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure it contains xanthan gum or another binder to maintain the structure; otherwise, the texture might not be quite right.
Is this bread sweet enough to be considered a dessert?
The Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe has a pleasant sweetness that works well as a dessert or snack. If you prefer it sweeter, try serving with honey or a glaze to elevate its dessert-like qualities.
How long does it take to prepare and bake?
From start to finish, this bread takes about 45 minutes, with 10 minutes prep time and 35 minutes baking time, making it a quick yet rewarding baking project.
Final Thoughts
The Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe is that perfect blend of comfort and elegance baked into a simple loaf. It’s easy to make, endlessly versatile, and absolutely delicious. Once you try this recipe, you’ll find it hard not to keep it on repeat. So go ahead, grab your mixing bowl and pecans, and let the sweet Southern charm fill your kitchen today!
Print
Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is a moist and flavorful baked treat featuring a rich blend of brown and granulated sugars, vegetable oil, and plenty of pecans. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, this easy-to-make bread boasts a tender crumb with a delightful nutty crunch on top. It’s a classic Southern-inspired recipe that pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Mix-ins & Toppings
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- ½ cup whole pecans (for topping, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Mix Sugars & Oil – In a large bowl, whisk together brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vegetable oil until the mixture is smooth and well combined for a consistent sweetness.
- Add Eggs & Vanilla – Beat in the eggs one at a time to fully incorporate them, followed by adding the vanilla extract for enhanced flavor aroma.
- Prepare Dry Ingredients – In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agent and seasoning.
- Combine Wet & Dry – Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined to avoid overmixing which can toughen the bread.
- Fold in Pecans – Gently fold chopped pecans into the batter to distribute the nuts evenly, adding texture and nutty flavor throughout.
- Pour & Decorate – Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula. Arrange whole pecans on top if using, to add a decorative and crunchy topping.
- Bake – Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, checking doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean when done.
- Cool & Serve – Allow the bread to cool in the pan before slicing into 12 squares. Serve warm or at room temperature for best taste and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute vegetable oil with melted butter for a richer flavor.
- Toasting the pecans before folding them in can enhance their flavor.
- The bread can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.
- For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
- Adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients can add a warm spice element.
