Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread

Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is a Southern classic that perfectly balances rich, nutty flavors with a tender, moist crumb. If you’ve never had the pleasure of tasting this beloved treat, imagine a cross between a soft, buttery cake and a chewy blondie, packed with crunchy pecans in every bite. It’s the kind of old-fashioned recipe that’s been passed down through generations, making appearances at church gatherings, potlucks, and family reunions.

This pecan bread is not a traditional yeast bread—it’s more of a quick bread, meaning no kneading or rising time required. You simply mix everything together, bake, and enjoy! The buttermilk keeps it incredibly moist, while the brown sugar and vanilla give it a warm, caramel-like sweetness. Whether you serve it warm with a pat of butter, alongside a cup of coffee, or as a sweet side at a holiday meal, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – No complicated steps, just mix, bake, and enjoy!
• Rich and Buttery – The combination of melted butter, brown sugar, and vanilla creates a deep, caramel-like flavor.
• Perfectly Moist – Thanks to the buttermilk, this bread stays soft and tender.
• Great for Any Occasion – Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or even as a side dish at family dinners.
• Full of Crunchy Pecans – The star of the show is the pecans, adding a delicious crunch in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Bread:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder

How to Make Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Your Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract for that extra layer of sweetness.

Step 3: Add the Buttermilk

Pour in the buttermilk and stir until the mixture is smooth. The buttermilk not only adds a slight tangy flavor but also helps keep the bread soft and moist.

Step 4: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bread dense rather than light and tender.

Step 5: Add the Pecans

Fold in the chopped pecans, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. The pecans give this bread its signature crunch and nutty flavor.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden Brown

Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown, and the edges should pull away slightly from the pan.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Let the pecan bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Serve warm, drizzled with honey, a pat of butter, or a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra special touch.

Helpful Tips

• Use Fresh Pecans – Toasting the pecans before adding them to the batter enhances their natural sweetness and crunch.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter – Stir just until combined to keep the bread soft and tender.
• Let It Cool Before Slicing – The bread will be easier to slice if it has time to set.
• Customize It – Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth, or drizzle the top with a simple glaze.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 9-12 servings
• Category: Dessert/Bread
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Southern
• Diet: Vegetarian

Notes

• This pecan bread tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer a sweeter version, add an extra tablespoon of brown sugar or drizzle with maple syrup.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 280
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Cholesterol: 50mg
• Sugar: 22g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 100mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make This in a Loaf Pan?

Yes! If you prefer a loaf-style pecan bread, use a 9×5-inch loaf pan and bake for about 40-45 minutes.

Can I Use Milk Instead of Buttermilk?

You can substitute regular milk mixed with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar for buttermilk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store at room temperature for up to 3 days, in the fridge for a week, or freeze for up to 3 months.

Storage Instructions

• Room Temperature: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerator: Store in the fridge for up to a week. Let it come to room temperature before serving.
• Freezer: Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before eating.

Related Recipes

If you loved this Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread, you might also enjoy these delicious treats:

• Alabama Pecanbread

Conclusion

Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is the perfect blend of rich, nutty flavors and soft, buttery texture. It’s a simple, no-fuss recipe that delivers big on taste, whether you enjoy it as a sweet breakfast, a comforting afternoon snack, or a dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Try this easy recipe today, and watch it disappear from the table in no time!

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