Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe

The Coziest Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe for Bakers at Home

Baking this sweet alabama pecan bread sparks memories of lazy Southern afternoons and cherished family recipes.

Grandmothers across Alabama have perfected this delightful treat for generations.

Pecans add a rich, buttery crunch that makes every slice irresistible.

Soft, moist textures blend perfectly with the nutty warmth of fresh pecans.

Local ingredients create magic in this simple yet elegant dessert.

Subtle hints of vanilla and brown sugar weave through each delectable bite.

You’ll fall in love with this comforting, homestyle bread that feels like a warm hug from the Deep South.

Ingredients for Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe

Main Ingredients:

Wet Ingredients:
  • Brown Sugar: Adds deep, rich sweetness and moisture to the bread.
  • White Granulated Sugar: Provides additional sweetness and helps create a tender texture.
  • Vegetable Oil: Ensures the bread stays moist and tender.
  • Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and provide structure to the bread.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile with its warm, sweet note.
Dry Ingredients:
  • Self-Rising Flour: Provides the base structure and helps the bread rise.
  • Salt: Balances and elevates the sweet flavors in the bread.
Nut Ingredient:
  • Pecans: Add a rich, nutty crunch and toasted depth to the sweet bread.

How to Prepare Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Fire up your oven to 350F (175C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a generous coating of grease to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Create a Sugary Base

In a spacious mixing bowl, combine:
  • Brown sugar
  • White granulated sugar
  • Vegetable oil
  • Eggs

Whisk these ingredients together until they transform into a smooth, creamy mixture.

Step 3: Splash in Some Flavor

Pour in the vanilla extract and stir until it’s perfectly blended with the sugary base.

Step 4: Introduce the Dry Teammates

Gradually add the self-rising flour and salt to the wet ingredients. Mix thoroughly until you have a consistent batter with no dry pockets.

Step 5: Welcome the Nutty Crunch

Gently fold in the toasted pecans, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter. This will give your bread that signature Southern texture and flavor.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Transfer the batter to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Slide the dish into the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. The bread is ready when it turns a beautiful golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Indulge

Remove the bread from the oven and let it rest in the pan for 10 minutes. Cut into squares and serve. For an extra indulgent experience, top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and savor every bite of this Southern delight.

Pro Tips for Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe

  • Check Doneness Carefully: Insert a toothpick in the center of the bread – if it comes out clean with just a few moist crumbs, the bread is perfectly baked and won't dry out.
  • Prevent Flour Lumps: Sift the self-rising flour before mixing to ensure a smooth, lump-free batter and create a more consistent texture throughout the bread.
  • Adjust Sweetness Level: Reduce sugar by 2-3 tablespoons if you prefer a less sweet dessert, or add a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra warmth and depth of flavor.

Variation Ideas for Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe

  • Gluten-Free Pecan Bread: Replace self-rising flour with gluten-free flour blend and add 1 teaspoon baking powder for rise.
  • Maple Walnut Variation: Swap pecans for chopped walnuts and substitute half the white sugar with maple syrup for deeper flavor.
  • Low-Sugar Option: Use sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener, reducing total sugar content by 50% while maintaining bread's moistness.
  • Dairy-Free Adaptation: Use coconut oil instead of vegetable oil and ensure all ingredients are dairy-free for those with lactose restrictions.

Pairing Suggestions for Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe

  • Pair Perfectly with Bourbon Caramel Sauce: Drizzle rich, smooth bourbon caramel sauce over warm slices to enhance the pecan's nutty depth and complement the bread's sweet profile.
  • Create a Coffee Companion: Serve alongside a robust dark roast coffee or creamy cappuccino, which will highlight the bread's warm, toasty notes and balance its sweetness.
  • Match with Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: Top each slice with a cold scoop of premium vanilla bean ice cream, creating a delightful temperature and texture contrast that elevates the dessert experience.
  • Complement with Cinnamon Whipped Cream: Dollop homemade cinnamon-infused whipped cream on top, adding a spicy warmth that beautifully intertwines with the bread's pecan and sugar undertones.

Storage Advice for Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe

  • Store cooled bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
  • Slice bread, wrap individual portions in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months for maximum freshness and flavor preservation.
  • Warm individual slices for 15-20 seconds on medium power. Check temperature and add 5-second intervals if needed to avoid overheating.
  • Warm slices at 300F for 5-7 minutes, wrapped in aluminum foil to retain moisture and prevent edges from becoming too crispy.

FAQs About Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe

  • Are pecans necessary for this recipe?

Yes, pecans are a key ingredient that provides rich, nutty flavor and texture to the Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread. Toasting them beforehand enhances their taste and crunch.

  • Can I use regular flour instead of self-rising flour?

No, self-rising flour is crucial for this recipe as it already contains baking powder and salt, which help the bread rise and achieve the right texture. Substituting with regular flour will change the bread’s consistency.

  • How do I know when the bread is perfectly baked?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean without any wet batter, the bread is done. The top should also be golden brown and slightly firm to the touch.

Why Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe Is a Southern Treat

  • Savor Southern Comfort: Experience the warm, homey flavors of Alabama with this delightful pecan bread that brings traditional Southern baking right to your kitchen.
  • Customize with Ease: Adapt the recipe by adding chocolate chips, swapping pecans for walnuts, or serving with a scoop of ice cream for a personalized dessert experience.
  • Quick Family Treat: Prepare this crowd-pleasing bread in just a few simple steps, making it perfect for unexpected guests, family gatherings, or a spontaneous sweet craving.
  • One-Bowl Wonder: Minimize kitchen cleanup with this straightforward recipe that requires minimal dishes and mixing equipment, perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
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Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe

Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe


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4.5 from 11 reviews

  • Total Time: 45-50 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Southern charm meets nutty perfection in this sweet alabama pecan bread, blending rich southern tradition with irresistible homestyle comfort. Warm, golden slices promise a delightful journey through classic American baking that you’ll savor with pure happiness.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 12 cups self-rising flour

Sugars:

  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1 cup white granulated sugar

Flavor Enhancers and Mix-ins:

  • 2 cups pecans, chopped and toasted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven at 350°F (175°C) and coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with grease to prevent sticking.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together brown sugar, white sugar, vegetable oil, and eggs until the mixture becomes smooth and uniformly blended.
  3. Incorporate vanilla extract into the sugar mixture, stirring thoroughly to distribute the flavor evenly.
  4. Gradually introduce self-rising flour and salt into the wet ingredients, mixing carefully to create a consistent batter without overmixing.
  5. Gently incorporate toasted pecans into the batter, ensuring they are evenly spread throughout without sinking to the bottom.
  6. Transfer the batter to the prepared baking dish, using a spatula to spread it uniformly and create an even surface.
  7. Bake for 30-35 minutes, monitoring until the top turns a golden brown color and a toothpick inserted into the center emerges clean.
  8. Remove from the oven and allow the bread to rest in the pan for 10 minutes, which helps it set and makes cutting easier.
  9. Slice into squares and serve warm, optionally accompanied by a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.

Notes

  • Toast pecans beforehand to enhance their nutty flavor and prevent soggy texture during baking.
  • Replace vegetable oil with healthier alternatives like coconut oil or applesauce for a lighter version.
  • Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top after baking to create a delightful sweet-and-salty contrast.
  • Experiment with gluten-free self-rising flour for a celiac-friendly adaptation of this Southern classic.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 391
  • Sugar: 22 g
  • Sodium: 99 mg
  • Fat: 32 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 27 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 25 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Cholesterol: 62 mg
Olivia Brooks

Olivia Brooks

Contributing Writer

Expertise

  • Healthy recipe development
  • Plant-based cooking
  • Nutritional analysis
  • Food writing and content creation

Education

Culinary Institute of America
Accelerated Culinary Arts Certificate Program
Focus: Culinary fundamentals, nutrition, and healthy cooking technique


Olivia believes good food should feed both the body and the soul. She earned her Accelerated Culinary Arts Certificate from the Culinary Institute of America, where she focused on nutrition and practical cooking techniques that make healthy eating easy.
At 10 Below Ice Cream, Olivia shares single-serving recipes that are fresh, plant-forward, and full of heart. She loves helping people eat better, without stress, strict rules, or sacrificing flavor.
Beyond the kitchen, Olivia spends her time tending her backyard garden, practicing yoga, and discovering hidden gems in Portland’s food scene.

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