If you have a sweet tooth and an appreciation for Southern charm, the Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe will quickly become one of your top favorites. This irresistibly moist, chewy bread combines the rich flavors of toasted pecans, warm vanilla, and a perfectly balanced sweetness from brown and granulated sugars. It’s the kind of treat that feels like a cozy hug in every bite, ideal for sharing with family or enjoying with a comforting cup of coffee. Whether you’re a baking newbie or an experienced home cook, this Southern American classic is straightforward to make and absolutely delightful to savor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple but thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each element plays a crucial role in delivering that classic texture and flavor that sets the Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe apart. From the mix of sugars bringing depth to the sweetness, to the crunch of plentiful pecans, these components come together in perfect harmony.
- Granulated sugar: Gives a clean, classic sweetness and helps create a tender crumb.
- Light brown sugar: Adds moisture and a subtle molasses flavor for warmth.
- Large eggs (4): Provide structure and richness to the bread.
- Vegetable oil: Keeps the texture moist and chewy without heaviness.
- All-purpose flour: The backbone for structure, ensuring the bread holds together nicely.
- Baking powder: Gives a gentle lift so the bread isn’t too dense.
- Salt: Enhances sweetness and balances the flavors perfectly.
- Chopped pecans: Toasted is even better—offers crunch and that signature nutty flavor.
- Vanilla extract: Adds a fragrant warmth that rounds out the whole flavor profile.
How to Make Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This ensures the bread will bake evenly right from the start. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan—this size is perfect for getting those generously sized squares everyone loves. Keeping your pan well-greased will help the bread slide out easily once it’s done.
Step 2: Blend Sugars, Eggs, and Oil
In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, light brown sugar, eggs, and vegetable oil. The goal here is to create a smooth, homogenous mixture where the sugars dissolve a bit into the wet ingredients, setting a luscious base for the bread’s texture and sweetness.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients Separately
Combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt in another bowl. Doing this ensures even distribution of your leavening agent and seasoning since you want every bite to have consistent flavor and rise.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gently stir the dry ingredients into your wet mixture until just combined. Overmixing here can make the bread tough, so keep it light but thorough to maintain that tender, chewy crumb you’re aiming for.
Step 5: Fold in Pecans and Vanilla
Now for the star ingredient: fold in the chopped pecans along with the vanilla extract. If you’ve taken the extra step to toast your pecans, you’ll notice the rich aroma and added depth elevate this bread to new heights.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pan and spread it out. Pop it into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’re looking for a golden top and a toothpick inserted in the center coming out clean. Once baked, allow the bread to cool fully in the pan before slicing into those inviting squares.
How to Serve Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe
Garnishes
While this bread shines on its own, a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey adds an elegant touch without overpowering the natural flavors. For a decadent twist, try a smear of cream cheese or a pat of butter that melts delightfully into each warm square.
Side Dishes
This pecan bread pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit like sliced apples, pears, or a handful of berries to balance the richness. It also works beautifully alongside a cozy bowl of soup or a rich cup of hot tea, turning any meal into a comforting Southern delight.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread at brunch as mini squares alongside whipped cream and a caramel dipping sauce to impress friends. Another charming idea is to layer the bread with mascarpone and fruit in a trifle glass for an easy dessert that looks as good as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store the bread covered at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps it moist and fresh. Wrapping the pan tightly in plastic wrap or transferring the squares to an airtight container helps preserve those wonderful flavors and texture.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe later, it freezes well. Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. When you’re ready for a treat, thaw at room temperature or gently warm them to bring back that freshly baked feel.
Reheating
To revive the bread’s softness and bring out the flavors, warm slices in a microwave for about 15 seconds or pop them in a 300°F oven for 5 to 7 minutes wrapped in foil. This makes your leftovers taste just as indulgent as when freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of nut instead of pecans?
Absolutely! While pecans are traditional and add that distinct Southern flavor, walnuts or almonds can be delightful substitutes, offering their own unique texture and taste.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
You can swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking blend that measures 1:1. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum for the best texture.
Can I reduce the sugar for a less sweet option?
Yes, you can reduce granulated sugar slightly, but keep in mind the character of this bread lies in its sweetness—reducing too much may affect texture and moisture.
What’s the best way to toast pecans for this bread?
Toast pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant and lightly browned. Let them cool before chopping and adding to your batter.
Can I make this bread in loaf pans instead of a 9×13 pan?
Definitely. Use two greased 9×5-inch loaf pans and adjust baking time to around 35 to 40 minutes, checking doneness with a toothpick.
Final Thoughts
The Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe offers a wonderful slice of Southern warmth that’s perfect for any time you crave a sweet, nutty, and comforting treat. It’s incredibly easy to make, full of classic flavors, and sure to earn a permanent spot in your recipe box. I cannot encourage you enough to try this recipe soon—you’ll be amazed at how fast it disappears from the plate.
Print
Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 24 squares
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is a rich and chewy Southern American dessert that combines the nutty flavor of pecans with a moist, dense, blondie-like texture. This easy-to-make treat is perfect for serving at gatherings or as a sweet snack, featuring a delightful balance of granulated and brown sugar with a hint of vanilla.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Add-ins
- 2 cups chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and set it aside to ensure the bread doesn’t stick during baking.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, light brown sugar, eggs, and vegetable oil until the mixture is smooth and uniform in texture.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift or stir together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agent and seasoning.
- Incorporate Dry into Wet: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined to avoid overmixing which can lead to a tough bread.
- Add Pecans and Vanilla: Gently fold in the chopped pecans and vanilla extract, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Pour Batter and Bake: Pour the prepared batter into the greased baking pan and spread it evenly with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the bread to cool in the pan before slicing into 24 squares. Serve as a delightful dessert or snack.
Notes
- Toast the pecans beforehand for extra depth of flavor and a crunchier texture.
- This bread has a naturally dense and chewy consistency, similar to a blondie.
- Store leftovers covered at room temperature for up to three days to maintain freshness.
