Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is a moist, buttery Southern-style bread with a rich caramelized flavor and crunchy pecan topping. This easy-to-make treat is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack with coffee.

FULL RECIPE:

Ingredients

• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• ½ cup whole pecans (for topping, optional)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vegetable oil until smooth.
3. Mix in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
6. Gently fold in chopped pecans to distribute evenly.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top. Optionally, arrange whole pecans on top.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Let cool before slicing into squares. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Nutrients

• Serving Size: 12 servings
• Calories: 320 kcal

Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread: A Southern Classic

Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is a beloved dessert in the South, revered for its rich, comforting flavor and irresistible texture. With its moist crumb and delicious blend of sugars, pecans, and a hint of vanilla, this quick bread is more than just a recipe – it’s a tradition that brings families together. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to indulge in a delightful treat, Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is a great addition to any table.

The Southern Tradition of Pecan Bread

Pecans are a quintessential ingredient in Southern cuisine, making them an ideal choice for desserts and baked goods in the region. Known for their buttery richness and subtle sweetness, pecans add a touch of elegance to any dish they grace. This recipe embraces the nut’s natural flavor, resulting in a delicious, nut-filled bread that is both simple and sophisticated. Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread holds a special place in Southern households, especially around the holidays and family gatherings. It’s one of those recipes passed down through generations, where each family adds their own personal twist. Some might increase the sugar for added sweetness, while others might add a pinch of cinnamon or other spices to give it their signature flavor. 

Perfect for Any Occasion

One of the most appealing aspects of Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is its versatility. It’s the kind of dish that is suitable for a variety of occasions, making it perfect for everything from casual brunches to formal holiday dinners. The bread’s sweet, nutty flavor can complement both savory and sweet accompaniments, making it adaptable for any meal of the day. If you’re hosting a family gathering or a holiday party, serving Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread as part of the dessert spread is sure to please your guests. Its combination of flavors and textures, with the rich sweetness of the bread and the satisfying crunch of the pecans, creates a memorable experience for anyone who takes a bite. Additionally, this pecan bread also makes an excellent gift for friends or loved ones. Wrapped in decorative parchment paper or placed in a gift box, it serves as a thoughtful and homemade present, perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or even as a holiday gift. 

Why It’s a Great Recipe to Try

There are several reasons why Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread stands out as a must-try recipe for bakers of all skill levels. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make. Unlike many desserts that require complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients, this bread is straightforward and uses common pantry staples. The simple mix of sugar, eggs, flour, oil, and nuts ensures that even beginners can confidently make this dish. The preparation time is also minimal, allowing you to bake a fresh loaf without spending too much time in the kitchen. You can quickly gather the ingredients, mix the dough, and pop it into the oven. In less than an hour, your kitchen will be filled with the delicious scent of baking bread. For those looking for a way to make their baking stand out, this bread is an excellent way to do so.

Why Pecans Make All the Difference

Pecans are undoubtedly the star ingredient in Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread. Their rich, buttery flavor is what sets this bread apart from other sweet breads, making it a beloved treat in the South. Native to North America, pecans have been a staple in Southern cuisine for centuries. The pecan tree thrives in the Southern climate, which makes these nuts widely available and an integral part of many Southern dishes. Pecans are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. They’re a great source of healthy fats, including omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce inflammation and support heart health. 

Variations and Tips

While the traditional Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread recipe is delicious on its own, there are many ways to put your own spin on it. If you want to add a bit of spice, consider incorporating a teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter. These warm spices will enhance the flavor and make the bread even more aromatic. For a more decadent treat, drizzle a bit of caramel sauce or honey over the top of the bread once it’s baked. This additional layer of sweetness will complement the pecans and add an extra touch of indulgence. Alternatively, you could make a glaze by mixing powdered sugar with a little milk and vanilla extract, then drizzle it over the top to add both sweetness and visual appeal. For those who prefer a healthier version, you can experiment by substituting some of the sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.

Conclusion

Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is a truly delightful treat that perfectly captures the flavors of the South. It’s a simple yet delicious recipe that combines the natural sweetness of pecans with a soft, moist bread, creating a dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a holiday celebration, a family gathering, or just as a treat for yourself, this bread will not disappoint. Its versatility, ease of preparation, and rich flavor make it a staple in Southern baking, and it’s a recipe that will be passed down for generations to come.