I can still remember the first time I tasted sweet Alabama pecan bread it was love at first bite. The outside had a delicate golden crust, while the inside was soft, moist, and filled with buttery pecan flavor.
It’s sweet enough to satisfy a dessert craving, but simple enough to enjoy with a morning cup of coffee. This recipe has become one of my go-to Southern comfort bakes. If you enjoy rich, nutty treats with a soft, cake-like texture, this pecan bread is going to feel like home.
How To Make Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe?
Preparation Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
Total Time: ~50 minutes
Course: Sweet bread / Dessert / Snack
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: Southern American
Yield: 12–16 squares
Equipment Needed:
- 9×13‑inch baking dish (or loaf pan for a thicker loaf)
- Large mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Toothpick for doneness test
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 4 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- ½ cup melted butter (optional, swap ½ cup oil if you prefer)
- 1½ cups self‑rising flour
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups finely chopped pecans
- ½ teaspoon salt
Step‑by‑Step Instructions
1. Preheat & Prepare
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease the baking dish using butter or non-stick spray.
2. Blend Sugars & Wet Ingredients
In your mixing bowl, stir together both sugars, eggs, oil, and melted butter until smooth. Add vanilla and mix.
3. Fold in Flour & Pecans
Add flour gradually until just combined—don’t overmix. Gently fold in chopped pecans until evenly dispersed.
4. Bake
Spread batter into dish and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
5. Cool & Serve
Let it sit for 10–15 minutes, then slice into squares while still warm.
Nutrition Facts (per serving, approx.)
(Based on 16 servings)
- Calories: ~350 kcal
- Total Fat: 21 g (Saturated Fat: 6 g)
- Carbohydrates: 40 g (Sugar: 27 g)
- Protein: 4 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sodium: 120 mg
🧡 Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey—delicious alongside:
- A steaming mug of coffee or sweet iced tea
- Vanilla ice cream for a dessert twist
- Whipped cream or a smear of cream cheese
🔄 Tips & Variations
- Loaf Style: Bake in a loaf pan for 50–60 minutes for thicker slices.
- Spiced Bread: Add 1 tsp cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg.
- Nut Swaps: Use walnuts or almonds in place of pecans.
- Gluten‑free: Replace self‑rising flour with 1½ cups GF flour + 1½ tsp baking powder + ½ tsp salt.
- Healthier Swap: Use unsweetened applesauce instead of oil to cut down on fat.
🌱 Health Benefits
- Pecans bring healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants.
- Moderate amounts of vegetable oil or applesauce provide moisture with less saturated fat.
- Can lower sugar—swap part of sugars for stevia or erythritol for a lighter version.
👩🍳 Note from the Kitchen
Feel free to tinker—this bread is forgiving. If using a loaf pan, watch the bake time. And don’t skip pecans—they’re the true magic.
❓ FAQ
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of self-rising flour?
Yes, I’ve done that before. Just mix 1½ cups of all-purpose flour with 1½ teaspoons of baking powder and ½ teaspoon of salt—it works just as well.
Can I make this pecan bread ahead of time?
Absolutely. I usually bake it a day in advance when I’m expecting guests. Just wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap to keep it moist.
How should I store leftovers?
I keep mine in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, I refrigerate it, or freeze slices for later.
Can I use a different type of nut?
Yes! Walnuts or chopped almonds work too, but for that true Southern flavor, I always reach for pecans.
Why is my pecan bread dry?
It’s usually from overbaking. I recommend checking it around the 30-minute mark. A toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs—not bone dry.
Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, I’ve cut the sugar by ¼ cup before, and it still tasted great. Just keep in mind that the sweetness balances the nuttiness.
Can I add extras like chocolate chips or coconut?
Totally! I’ve tossed in mini chocolate chips once, and it turned out amazing. Shredded coconut or dried cranberries can be fun, too.
📝 Conclusion
Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread brings a cozy, Southern charm to any table. With simple pantry staples, it comes together quickly and bakes into a moist, nutty, comforting treat.
I love how it fills the kitchen with a caramel aroma—I hope you love baking it as much as I do. If you give it a try, message me—I’d love to hear how it turns out (especially if you added chocolate chips or swapped nuts!).
Happy baking,
Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease the baking dish using butter or non-stick spray.
- In your mixing bowl, stir together both sugars, eggs, oil, and melted butter until smooth. Add vanilla and mix.
- Add flour gradually until just combined—don’t overmix. Gently fold in chopped pecans until evenly dispersed.
- Spread batter into dish and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Let it sit for 10–15 minutes, then slice into squares while still warm.