Name: Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 cup packed light brown sugar; 1 cup granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 cup vegetable oil; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup chopped pecans

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If you’ve ever had a bite of something so warm, nutty, and melt-in-your-mouth sweet that you instantly felt transported to a front porch in the South, then you’ll understand the magic of the Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe. This treat transforms simple pantry staples and crunchy pecans into a moist, golden bake with layers of caramel flavor and southern comfort. Whether you’re serving it for brunch, potluck, or simply indulging your sweet tooth, this recipe brings that irresistible blend of rustic charm and pure delight to every bite.

Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe is how basic yet impactful each ingredient is; every one brings its own special character to the table. You don’t need fancy baking skills—just let these classic staples work their Southern charm!

Light brown sugar: Adds warm caramel notes and helps keep the bread exceptionally moist.
Granulated sugar: Provides structure and balances out the deeper flavors of the brown sugar.
Large eggs: Give the bread its stability and a tender crumb; make sure they’re at room temperature for the best rise.
Vegetable oil: Keeps the loaf soft and tender for days, much more so than butter.
All-purpose flour: The backbone of the bread’s body, giving it just enough heft without being heavy.
Salt: Don’t skip it—a pinch enhances all the nutty sweetness and brightens the flavors.
Vanilla extract: Infuses the bread with cozy, bakery-fresh aroma and depth.
Chopped pecans: The star ingredient! Their toasted, buttery crunch is pure southern bliss in every bite.

How to Make Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

First things first: set yourself up for success by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure your pecan bread lifts out easily and gets those lovely golden edges.

Step 2: Mix Sugars, Eggs & Flavors

In a roomy mixing bowl, whisk together the light brown sugar, granulated sugar, and eggs until the mixture is creamy, glossy, and well blended. This step is all about creating a rich, sweet base that gives your Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe its signature flavor.

Step 3: Add Oil and Vanilla

Stir in the vegetable oil and vanilla extract. The oil makes the bread extra moist, while the vanilla delivers a comforting, home-baked aroma that sets the mood for the whole loaf.

Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Add the all-purpose flour and salt. Mix gently—just until you no longer see streaks of flour. Overmixing can make the bread tough, so stop as soon as the batter comes together.

Step 5: Fold In Those Pecans

Now for the magic: gently fold in the chopped pecans, distributing them evenly for delicious crunch in every bite. Toast your pecans beforehand if you want to boost their nuttiness.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Pour the batter into your prepared pan, smoothing it out to the edges. Slide it into the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until your kitchen smells like heaven and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Slice

Let the bread cool slightly in the pan so it sets up, then slice into squares while it’s still warm. Serve and watch as the slices disappear—seconds are basically guaranteed!

How to Serve Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe

Garnishes

For a truly polished presentation, dust the top with a light shower of powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple vanilla glaze. A sprinkle of extra toasted, chopped pecans adds an eye-catching, flavorful touch.

Side Dishes

Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread shines on its own but plays beautifully alongside a bowl of fresh berries, vanilla ice cream, or a cup of coffee. It’s right at home with classic Southern pairings like fruit salad or even a tangy breakfast yogurt.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn this bread into a gift by baking it in mini loaf pans and tying with a ribbon, or stack slices in a pretty tin for a thoughtful homemade treat. For gatherings, cut the bread into bite-sized cubes and set out with toothpicks as a sweet finger food.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled completely, cover the pecan bread tightly with plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. It’ll stay moist and flavorful, just as heavenly as the day it was baked.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap slices or the whole loaf in layers of plastic wrap and foil, then pop into a freezer bag. It’ll keep its texture and flavor for up to 2 months, making the Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe a perfect make-ahead treat.

Reheating

For that fresh-baked warmth, reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 10–15 seconds or in a low oven for a few minutes. The bread returns to its soft, gooey glory every time.

FAQs

Can I replace pecans with another type Dessert

Absolutely! While the Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe is traditionally made with pecans, walnuts or even almonds work nicely if that’s what you have on hand or prefer.

Is this bread very sweet?

It is definitely on the sweet side—think snack cake rather than a typical sandwich bread. The dual sugars create a caramelized crust, but you can reduce each by a couple tablespoons for a slightly less sweet touch.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute a cup-for-cup gluten-free baking flour blend for the all-purpose flour. Just be sure to check your blend includes xanthan gum to help keep the crumb tender.

Can I bake this in a different pan size?

Of course! Mini loaf pans are wonderful for gifting, or use an 8×8-inch pan for thicker squares (add a few minutes to the bake time). Just keep an eye on doneness.

How do I toast pecans for more flavor?

Spread chopped pecans on a baking sheet and toast in a 350°F oven for about 5–8 minutes, stirring once, until fragrant and golden. Let them cool before adding to your batter for a deeper, richer flavor in your Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe.

Final Thoughts

There’s a reason this Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe is a cherished favorite in so many Southern kitchens: it’s simple, comforting, and downright irresistible. If you haven’t tried it yet, treat yourself—one slice and you’ll understand why it’s a sweet tradition worth sharing.

Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe

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4.6 from 14 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of the South with this Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread recipe. This moist and nutty bread is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet treat anytime.

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients:

1 cup packed light brown sugar
1 cup granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 cup vegetable oil
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup chopped pecans

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Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, granulated sugar, and eggs until well combined. Stir in the vegetable oil and vanilla extract. Add the flour and salt, mixing just until incorporated. Fold in the chopped pecans.
Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve: Allow to cool slightly before slicing and serving.