Golden, buttery, and generously studded with chopped pecans, Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is pure comfort in every bite. Its tender crumb is delightfully rich, slightly crisp on the edges, and melts in your mouth thanks to the perfect balance of sugar, eggs, and Southern charm. Whether you serve it as a sweet breakfast, a cozy afternoon treat, or a dessert alongside coffee, this bread never fails to impress.

What truly sets this bread apart is the texture — a glorious fusion of nutty crunch and soft, cake-like interior. Each slice is bursting with the warm, roasted flavor of pecans, enhanced by a subtle caramelization on top. It’s one of those classic Southern recipes that feels like home and tastes like a warm hug.

Ingredients for this Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe

1 ½ cups chopped pecans
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
¾ cup butter (melted)
4 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
¼ tsp salt

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. This ensures the bread bakes evenly and doesn’t stick.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt. Make sure they’re well combined to distribute the sweetness and saltiness evenly throughout the bread.

Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat the eggs lightly, then mix in the melted butter and vanilla extract. Stir until fully blended and smooth.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the texture tender. Then fold in the chopped pecans, making sure they’re evenly spread throughout the batter.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Let the bread cool in the pan for at least 10–15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm for a comforting treat or let it cool completely for clean-cut slices.

Storage Instructions

To keep your Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread fresh and flavorful:

Room Temperature: Store the cooled bread in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Refrigerator: If you prefer to extend its shelf life, refrigerate it for up to 1 week. Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or foil to prevent it from drying out.
Freezer: This bread freezes beautifully! Wrap individual slices or the whole loaf in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It will stay good for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat in the microwave or toaster oven for a few seconds before serving.

Estimated Nutrition (per slice, based on 12 servings)

Calories: 320
Total Fat: 21g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 65mg
Sodium: 120mg
Total Carbohydrates: 30g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 20g
Protein: 4g

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on portion size and ingredient brands used.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar?

Yes! Brown sugar adds a deeper molasses flavor and extra moisture. You can replace it 1:1.

2. Can I add other nuts or mix-ins?

Absolutely. Walnuts, almonds, or even chocolate chips can be folded into the batter for variety.

3. Is this bread very sweet?

It has a sweet cake-like flavor, similar to a dessert bread. You can reduce the sugar slightly if you prefer a less sweet version.

4. What type of butter works best—salted or unsalted?

Unsalted butter is preferred to better control the saltiness, but salted works in a pinch. Just reduce added salt.

5. Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The texture might change slightly, but it still turns out delicious.

6. How do I know when it’s done baking?

The top will be golden and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

7. Can I make muffins with this batter?

Definitely! Pour into greased muffin tins and bake at 350°F for 18–22 minutes.

8. Is it okay to freeze the batter instead of the baked bread?

It’s better to freeze the baked bread. The batter may separate or lose texture when thawed.

Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe

Author: Sophia Langley
Total Time: 37 minute
Yield: 12 slices

Print Recipe

Description

If you’re searching for a sweet treat that’s easy to make, delightfully nutty, and irresistibly moist, Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is the one to try. This quick bread is packed with rich, buttery flavor, generously loaded with chopped pecans, and bakes into a golden-crusted loaf that’s perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself. Whether you’re looking for breakfast ideas, an easy recipe to bring to a potluck, or comforting food ideas for chilly days, this pecan bread delivers every time. It’s one of those easy dinner or healthy snack options that feels indulgent without being fussy. From the first bite, you’ll fall in love with its soft, cake-like interior and the crunchy sweetness of roasted pecans on top.

Ingredients

1 ½ cups chopped pecans

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 ½ cups granulated sugar

¾ cup butter (melted)

4 large eggs

1 tsp vanilla extract

¼ tsp salt

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
In another bowl, beat the eggs, then mix in melted butter and vanilla extract until smooth.
Combine the wet and dry mixtures. Stir until just combined.
Fold in chopped pecans and mix evenly.
Pour batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool for 10–15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Category: Dessert