Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread

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There’s something heartwarming about Southern baking that brings families together, and Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread does exactly that. This rich, dense quick bread is more like a blondie bar with an irresistible nutty crunch in every bite. It has a moist, chewy center and a shiny, crisp top that crackles as you cut into it.

Sweetened generously and packed with chopped pecans, this dessert leans into the comfort of old-fashioned Southern charm. It comes together in one bowl, no mixer required, making it a perfect go-to treat for casual gatherings, holidays, or a sweet afternoon indulgence with coffee or milk.

Why You’ll Love This Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread

This recipe checks every box for a no-fuss dessert. It’s quick, uses pantry staples, and can be whipped up in less than 10 minutes of prep. The toasted pecan flavor deepens as it bakes, infusing the loaf with caramelized, buttery goodness. It also travels well and slices beautifully, making it ideal for potlucks, bake sales, or gifting during the holidays.

What Kind of Pecans Should I Use?

Fresh pecans are key here, and chopping them coarsely lets them shine in every bite. You can toast them beforehand for extra nuttiness, but it’s not essential since the oven does a lot of the flavor-enhancing work. If you have access to local Southern pecans, they add a deeper richness that really sets this bread apart.

Ingredients for the Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread

To make the perfect Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread, you only need a handful of simple ingredients. The magic comes from how they combine into a chewy, golden dream.

Brown sugar adds moisture and depth, giving that classic molasses warmth you want in every bite.

Granulated sugar balances the richness with a touch of sweetness that complements the brown sugar.

Eggs help bind the bread and contribute to the fudgy texture.

All-purpose flour creates the body of the bread and gives it structure while letting the pecans remain the star.

Chopped pecans are the hero ingredient, offering crunch and a buttery, nutty profile throughout the loaf.

Vegetable oil keeps the bread moist without overpowering the nutty flavor.

Vanilla extract enhances the overall warmth and brings out the flavor of the pecans.

Salt adds just enough contrast to keep the sweetness in check.

How To Make the Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Set your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, oil, and vanilla extract until smooth and glossy.

Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients

Stir in the flour and salt until just combined. Don’t overmix—you want a tender bite, not a tough one.

Step 4: Fold in the Pecans

Gently fold in the chopped pecans, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.

Step 5: Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared dish and bake for about 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out mostly clean. The top should be golden and slightly crackly.

Step 6: Cool and Slice

Let the bread cool in the pan before slicing into bars or squares. It will firm up as it sits, making for clean, neat pieces.

How to Serve and Store Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread

This dessert serves about 12 generous pieces, perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in. It’s wonderful served slightly warm, maybe with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or enjoyed at room temperature with a hot drink. You can even microwave it for 10 seconds to bring back the just-baked feel.

To store, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze individual squares wrapped tightly in plastic and foil. Just thaw at room temperature or warm up briefly in the microwave.

What to Serve With Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread?

Hot Coffee or Cold Brew

The richness of the bread pairs beautifully with a bold, dark roast or a chilled cold brew.

Vanilla Ice Cream

Scoop it on top while the bread is warm and let it melt into a creamy, nutty dream.

Whipped Cream

Lightly sweetened whipped cream offers a cool contrast to the dense texture.

Salted Caramel Drizzle

A little drizzle over the top adds a decadent finish and echoes the brown sugar tones.

Apple Slices

For a fresh contrast, serve thin apple wedges on the side.

Cream Cheese Frosting

Spread a thin layer on top for a cheesecake-meets-pecan pie flavor.

Maple Glaze

A quick glaze with powdered sugar and maple syrup adds extra fall flair.

Want More Dessert Ideas with Southern Charm?

If this Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread has you craving more Southern comfort, you’ll love these other soul-satisfying favorites:

• Southern Banana Cobbler Recipe with warm banana pudding vibes.
• Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread for a peanut-chocolate fix.
• Hot Fudge Brownie Bread if you’re a chocoholic at heart.
• Easy Banana Cream Pie Recipe for something cool and creamy.
• Small Batch Pistachio Cream Cinnamon Rolls if you’re baking for fewer but still want a showstopper.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you toast your pecans? Try a glaze on top? Share your twist!

Explore beautifully curated Southern dessert recipes and sweet comfort food on Luna Meals on Pinterest and discover something new to bake every week.

Conclusion

Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is the kind of nostalgic dessert that doesn’t need frosting or frills to steal the show. It’s simple, satisfying, and deeply Southern in the best way. Whether you’re baking it for a weekend treat, sharing it with friends, or freezing slices for later, this recipe is a keeper that never disappoints.

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