Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is a Southern treasure that brings cozy charm to any table. Don’t let the name fool you, this is more like a rich, chewy pecan blondie than a traditional bread. Packed with buttery flavor and crunchy pecans, it’s sweet, soft, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re serving it for brunch, dessert, or a snack with coffee, this recipe is bound to become a family favorite.
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How to Make Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread
Making this bread is surprisingly simple, and it doesn’t require any fancy techniques. Just stir the ingredients together in one bowl, pour them into a baking dish, and let the oven work its magic. The result? A moist, dense, and sweet bread with toasted pecan bits in every bite. Serve it warm, and you’ll understand why it’s a Southern staple!
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups light brown sugar, packed.
- ½ cup granulated sugar.
- 1 cup vegetable oil.
- 4 large eggs.
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract.
- ½ tsp salt.
- 1 ½ cups chopped pecans.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C): Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- Mix sugar and oil: In a large bowl, combine brown sugar, granulated sugar, and oil. Stir until well blended.
- Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Incorporate dry ingredients: Add flour and salt to the mixture and stir just until combined.
- Fold in pecans: Gently mix in the chopped pecans until evenly distributed.
- Bake: Pour batter into prepared dish and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and serve: Let cool slightly before slicing into squares or bars.
Tips for Making Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread
- Don’t overmix the batter: Once the flour is added, this keeps the texture soft and prevents it from becoming tough.
- Toast the pecans beforehand for an extra-rich, nutty flavor — just a few minutes in a dry skillet or oven will do the trick.
- Let it cool completely before cutting to avoid crumbling and get cleaner slices.
- Use room temperature eggs so they blend more smoothly into the batter and help create an even texture.
- Line your pan with parchment paper for easy removal and less cleanup.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of maple extract if you want to give it a warm, cozy twist.
- Use a glass or metal baking dish but adjust the baking time slightly — glass pans may need a few extra minutes.
- Check doneness with a toothpick inserted in the center; it should come out with moist crumbs but not wet batter.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain moisture — it tastes even better the next day!
- Warm individual pieces in the microwave for 10–15 seconds before serving for that fresh-from-the-oven feel.
What to Serve with Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread
- A hot cup of coffee or chai latte is the perfect companion to balance the sweetness and enhance the cozy, comforting flavors.
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream turns this pecan bread into a rich, satisfying dessert perfect for any occasion.
- A dollop of whipped cream adds a light and creamy finish that pairs beautifully with the dense, nutty texture.
- Fresh fruit like strawberries or apples offers a refreshing and slightly tart contrast to the sweet bread.
- A savory brunch platter with eggs and cheese makes an ideal setting for serving this bread with a sweet accent on the side.
Ingredient Substitutes
- Melted butter or coconut oil can be used in place of vegetable oil to add richness and a slightly different flavor.
- Walnuts or chopped almonds make great alternatives to pecans, offering a similar crunch and nuttiness.
- A gluten-free flour blend can be substituted for all-purpose flour to make the recipe suitable for those avoiding gluten.
- Coconut sugar or raw cane sugar may be used instead of brown sugar if you’re looking for more natural or less processed sweeteners.
- Unsweetened applesauce or mashed ripe banana can replace eggs in this recipe for an egg-free version; use ¼ cup per egg.
- Dairy-free whipped toppings or plant-based ice cream can be served on the side for those who are avoiding dairy.
Recipe Variations
-
Chocolate Chip Pecan Bread
offers a delightful twist—simply fold ½ cup of chocolate chips into the batter for bursts of gooey, chocolaty goodness in every bite.
-
Spiced Version
adds a warm, cozy flavor by incorporating ½ teaspoon of cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg into the batter, making it perfect for fall or holiday gatherings.
-
Mini Loaves or Muffins
They are a great choice if you want smaller, individual servings; simply divide the batter into muffin tins or mini loaf pans and bake for 20 to 25 minutes.
-
Iced Pecan Bread
gives the final product a beautiful finish—once the bread has cooled, drizzle a simple glaze made with powdered sugar and milk for added sweetness and shine.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Is Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread a dessert or breakfast?
Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is wonderfully versatile. Its rich, sweet flavor makes it a great choice for dessert, especially when paired with ice cream or whipped cream. However, it’s also perfect for breakfast or brunch, served warm with coffee or tea, or as part of a larger spread with both sweet and savory options.
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Can I freeze this bread?
Yes, this bread freezes very well. Once it has completely cooled, wrap individual pieces or the entire loaf tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of foil or placing it in an airtight freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm gently in the oven.
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Can I make this with whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour—typically up to half the amount. Keep in mind that whole wheat flour will make the texture slightly denser and may give the bread a more earthy flavor. For a lighter result, consider using white whole wheat flour as an alternative.
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What’s the best way to store it?
To keep your pecan bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay moist and delicious for 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it, but be sure to bring it to room temperature or warm it before serving for the best texture and flavor.
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Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, the sugar can be reduced, but it may slightly change the texture and sweetness of the final product. Start by cutting back ¼ cup and see how you like the results. You can also try using a natural sweetener like coconut sugar, which has a lower glycemic index and adds a caramel-like flavor.
Final Thoughts about the Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe
Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is more than a recipe; it’s a taste of Southern comfort and hospitality in every bite. It’s rich, nutty, and perfectly sweetened, making it ideal for sharing… or keeping all to yourself. One bite, and you’ll understand why it’s a beloved favorite across Alabama and beyond.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups light brown sugar, packed.
- ½ cup granulated sugar.
- 1 cup vegetable oil.
- 4 large eggs.
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract.
- ½ tsp salt.
- 1 ½ cups chopped pecans.
Instructions
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C): Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- Mix sugar and oil: In a large bowl, combine brown sugar, granulated sugar, and oil. Stir until well blended.
- Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Incorporate dry ingredients: Add flour and salt to the mixture and stir just until combined.
- Fold in pecans: Gently mix in the chopped pecans until evenly distributed.
- Bake: Pour batter into prepared dish and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and serve: Let cool slightly before slicing into squares or bars.
