There’s something truly special about a slice of warm, nutty, sweet bread fresh from the oven. Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is one of those timeless Southern classics that bring comfort and nostalgia with every bite. The combination of toasted pecans, rich brown sugar, and a tender, moist crumb makes this dessert bread absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, a holiday feast, or just as a sweet treat with your afternoon coffee, this easy-to-make pecan bread is bound to be a favorite.
Ready to bake up some Southern magic? Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread
- Incredibly Easy to Make – No fancy techniques required, just mix, bake, and enjoy!
- Rich, Buttery, and Nutty Flavor – The combination of pecans, brown sugar, and vanilla creates the perfect Southern treat.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a holiday dessert, a potluck contribution, or a sweet breakfast, this bread is always a hit.
- Versatile Serving Options – Enjoy it warm with butter, drizzle it with caramel, or serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
What Does Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Taste Like?
Imagine biting into a soft, moist slice of bread that’s packed with the warm flavors of brown sugar and vanilla. The toasted pecans add the perfect crunch, balancing the sweetness with their rich, buttery flavor. It’s almost like a cross between a blondie and a pecan pie—sweet, nutty, and incredibly satisfying.
Benefits of This Recipe
- No Yeast Required – This is a quick bread, meaning you don’t have to worry about rising times.
- Uses Simple Pantry Ingredients – No need for complicated ingredients—this recipe keeps it simple and delicious.
- Great for Make-Ahead Treats – Stays moist for days, making it perfect for meal planning and gifting.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this delicious pecan bread, you’ll need:
- 2 cups chopped pecans (toasted for the best flavor)
- 1 ½ cups self-rising flour
- 1 cup brown sugar (packed for extra richness)
- 1 cup white granulated sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil (keeps the bread moist)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (for depth of flavor)
- ¼ tsp salt
Tools You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl
- Hand or stand mixer
- Spatula
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Parchment paper (optional, for easy removal)
- Cooling rack
Ingredient Substitutions and Additions
- No Self-Rising Flour? Use all-purpose flour and add 2 teaspoons of baking powder.
- Swap the Oil – Butter can be used instead of vegetable oil for a richer flavor.
- Add Chocolate Chips – Want an extra indulgent twist? A handful of chocolate chips makes this even more decadent!
- Coconut Lovers? Try adding ½ cup of shredded coconut for extra texture.
How to Make Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread
1. Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish generously with butter or non-stick spray. You can also line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Mix the Sugars and Oil
In a large mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, white sugar, and vegetable oil. Mix until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the Eggs and Vanilla
Crack in the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. This helps create a fluffy texture. Stir in the vanilla extract for that warm, comforting flavor.
4. Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the self-rising flour and salt, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this keeps the bread tender.
5. Fold in the Toasted Pecans
Gently fold in the toasted pecans, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
6. Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the bread turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Cool and Serve
Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before slicing into squares. This helps it set and makes cutting easier.
What to Serve with Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread
- A Scoop of Ice Cream – Vanilla, butter pecan, or cinnamon ice cream pairs beautifully with this bread.
- Drizzle of Caramel Sauce – Adds an extra layer of sweetness and gooey texture.
- A Hot Cup of Coffee – The nutty, caramelized flavors complement a strong cup of black coffee.
- Whipped Cream and Berries – A light and fresh way to enjoy this dessert.
Tips for Perfect Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread
- Don’t Overmix – Overmixing can make the bread dense instead of soft and tender.
- Toast the Pecans – This enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch.
- Check for Doneness – Insert a toothpick; if it comes out with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready!
Storage Instructions
- At Room Temperature – Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Refrigerate – For a longer shelf life, store in the fridge for up to a week.
- Freeze – Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Swap the self-rising flour for a gluten-free baking blend and add 2 tsp baking powder.
2. Can I Use a Different Nut Instead of Pecans?
Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds would work well as substitutes.
3. Why Did My Bread Turn Out Dry?
Overbaking is usually the culprit. Be sure to check with a toothpick around 30 minutes to prevent overcooking.
4. Can I Make This Into Muffins Instead?
Yes! Pour the batter into muffin tins and bake at 350°F for 18-22 minutes.
5. Can I Reduce the Sugar?
You can cut back on the white sugar slightly, but reducing too much may alter the texture.
Final Thoughts: A Must-Try Southern Delight!
Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is the kind of recipe that becomes a family tradition. It’s easy, rich, nutty, and perfectly sweet—a true Southern treasure! Whether you’re baking it for a special occasion or just to satisfy a sweet craving, this recipe is sure to impress.
I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! Leave a comment below or share your photos on Pinterest—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations!
Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread
Ingredients
- 2 cups chopped pecans toasted
- 1 ½ cups self-rising flour
- 1 cup brown sugar packed
- 1 cup white granulated sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- In a large bowl, mix both the brown sugar and white sugar with the vegetable oil until smooth and creamy.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure the batter is smooth.
- Stir in the vanilla extract, mixing it evenly throughout the batter.
- Gradually add the self-rising flour and salt. Stir until the dry ingredients are just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Fold in the toasted pecans by hand, using a spatula to ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly with a spatula.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before cutting it into squares. This allows the bread to set and makes for cleaner slices.
- Serve and enjoy! Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is delicious on its own, but it’s also fantastic with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or drizzled with caramel sauce.