If you’re craving something wonderfully rich and irresistibly nutty, then you are absolutely going to adore this Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe. This Southern delight blends the buttery sweetness of a cake with the heartiness of freshly baked bread, all generously studded with crunchy pecans. It’s moist, packed with flavor, and perfect whether you’re enjoying a cozy breakfast treat with your coffee or a satisfyingly sweet dessert at the end of the day. Once you try it, this pecan bread will surely become a beloved staple in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe plays a crucial role in creating its signature moist texture and delightful nutty flavor. Don’t be fooled by the simplicity — each component comes together to form a beautifully balanced and deeply satisfying treat.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Provides the light sweetness that balances the nutty pecans perfectly.
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed: Adds moisture and a subtle caramel richness that deepens the flavor.
- 4 large eggs, lightly beaten: Bind everything together and keep the bread tender and dense.
- 1 cup vegetable oil: Ensures the bread stays moist and soft without overpowering the other flavors.
- 2 tsp vanilla extract: Brings a warm, inviting aroma that enhances the overall taste.
- 1½ cups self-rising flour: Provides structure with just the right lift; DIY option available with all-purpose flour and baking powder.
- ¼ tsp kosher salt: Balances sweetness and elevates the pecan flavor.
- 1½ cups finely chopped pecans: The star ingredient that adds crunch and a signature nutty taste.
How to Make Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9 × 13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to make sure your bread will release easily once baked.
Step 2: Mix the Sugars, Eggs, Oil, and Vanilla
In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until you get a smooth, cohesive mixture. This step is key to achieving the bread’s luscious texture.
Step 3: Add the Flour and Salt
Gently fold the self-rising flour and kosher salt into the sugar mixture, stirring just until everything is combined. Over-mixing can make the bread tough, so keep it light and easy.
Step 4: Fold in the Pecans
Now for the fun part — fold in the finely chopped pecans evenly throughout the batter. For an extra layer of flavor, try lightly toasting the pecans beforehand; this will bring out their natural oils and toastiness.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into your prepared dish, spreading it into an even layer for uniform baking. Place in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Keep an eye on it — a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
Step 6: Cool and Slice
Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 10 minutes. This slight cooling helps it set while keeping it tender. Then slice it into squares and get ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe
Garnishes
This pecan bread shines beautifully on its own, but adding a simple garnish can turn it into an extra special treat. Try a pat of creamy butter melting on top of a warm slice, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert twist. A light dusting of powdered sugar can also add an elegant touch and a hint of sweetness without overwhelming the pecan flavor.
Side Dishes
Pair your Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe with complementary sides for a complete experience. A hot cup of coffee or rich black tea is ideal to balance the sweetness and enhance the nutty notes. For brunch, consider serving alongside fresh fruit or creamy yogurt for a refreshing contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to wow your guests, serve your pecan bread cut into small squares as part of a dessert platter with a variety of dips like honey butter or spiced cream cheese. You could even toast slices lightly to create an unexpected crunchy exterior while maintaining that moist, tender inside. This bread also pairs wonderfully with savory cheeses for a surprising sweet-savory combo.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your freshly baked pecan bread, wrap any leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay delightfully fresh for up to 3 days, making it easy to snack on without any fuss.
Freezing
This Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe freezes beautifully. Simply wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen slices will maintain their delicious flavor and texture for up to 2 to 3 months.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy frozen leftovers, thaw slices at room temperature or gently warm them in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds. If you want that freshly baked warmth, pop slices in a 325°F oven for 10 minutes until heated through, which also refreshes the pecan crunch.
FAQs
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of self-rising flour?
Absolutely! To substitute self-rising flour, mix 1½ cups of all-purpose flour with 2¼ teaspoons of baking powder and ¼ teaspoon of salt. This homemade mix will give your bread the perfect rise and tender crumb.
Is it necessary to toast the pecans before adding them?
While not required, toasting pecans lightly in a dry skillet or oven before chopping enhances their natural flavor and adds an extra layer of warmth and crunch to your pecan bread.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To adapt this recipe for gluten-free diets, use a gluten-free self-rising flour blend or an all-purpose gluten-free flour with added baking powder and salt. Keep in mind textures may vary slightly, but the flavor will still be fantastic.
How long will the Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread stay fresh at room temperature?
Stored properly in an airtight container, your pecan bread will remain moist and fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature. Beyond that, freezing is recommended to maintain taste and texture.
Can I add other nuts or mix-ins?
Definitely! This recipe is quite flexible. Walnuts, almonds, or even chocolate chips make delightful additions, but pecans remain the classic choice for that authentic Southern flavor.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about baking and sharing this Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe. Its rich flavor, tender texture, and comforting sweetness make it a standout dessert or snack that’s sure to become a cherished favorite. Once you try it, I’m confident it will find a warm place in your baking rotation and heart too. Happy baking and even happier tasting!
Print
Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert / Sweet Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern United States
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is a moist, nut-rich Southern treat that combines the flavors of buttery sweetness and crunchy pecans. This dense, cake-like bread is perfect served alongside coffee or as a delightful dessert, offering a luscious texture reminiscent of a blondie with the added crunch of toasted pecans.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1½ cups self-rising flour (or all-purpose flour with 2¼ tsp baking powder and ¼ tsp salt)
- ¼ tsp kosher salt
- 1½ cups (about 6 oz) finely chopped pecans
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 4 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Stir in the self-rising flour and kosher salt into the wet mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix to maintain a tender texture.
- Fold in Pecans: Gently fold the finely chopped pecans evenly into the batter to distribute the nutty flavor throughout.
- Transfer Batter: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly with a spatula to ensure uniform baking.
- Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with only moist crumbs.
- Cool and Serve: Let the pecan bread cool in the baking dish on a wire rack for about 10 minutes before slicing into squares. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- For enhanced pecan flavor, toast the pecans lightly in a dry skillet or oven before chopping and folding them into the batter.
- If you don’t have self-rising flour, substitute with all-purpose flour combined with 2¼ tsp baking powder and ¼ tsp salt as indicated.
- Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or a pat of butter for an indulgent treat.
- Store cooled pecan bread wrapped tightly or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days; freeze individual slices for 2–3 months for longer storage.
- This recipe produces a dense, moist texture akin to a blondie rather than traditional fluffy bread.
