Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread

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Do you crave a moist, buttery quick bread that melts in your mouth with every bite? Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is a Southern classic that delivers comfort and charm in the most delicious way. Each slice is loaded with toasted pecans, tender crumb, and rich, caramelized flavor that keeps you coming back for more.

Perfect for brunches, coffee mornings, or gifting during the holidays, this pecan bread checks all the boxes: simple ingredients, big flavor, and no-fuss preparation. Whether you serve it warm with a pat of butter or enjoy it plain, it’s the kind of bake that feels nostalgic yet always hits the spot.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the baking, having the right tools makes the process smoother and the results more consistent:

• Mixing Bowls: You’ll need one large and one medium bowl. The large bowl will be used for the batter, while the medium one can be used for mixing the dry ingredients separately. This helps ensure even distribution.
• Whisk & Silicone Spatula: A whisk helps blend the wet ingredients until smooth, while a silicone spatula is ideal for folding in the dry mix and scraping every bit of batter into the pan.
• Loaf Pan: An 8×4 or 9×5 inch loaf pan gives the bread its classic shape. Be sure to grease it or line it with parchment to prevent sticking.
• Oven Thermometer (optional but useful): Ensures your oven is at the correct temperature, which is key for an evenly baked loaf.
• Cooling Rack: Allows air to circulate around the loaf once it’s out of the oven, preventing a soggy bottom and promoting a perfect crust.

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Ingredients for the Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread

• Chopped Pecans: The star of the show. They add that classic Southern crunch and toasty depth.
• All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure and keeps the crumb tender.
• Granulated Sugar & Brown Sugar: The mix of both sugars gives the bread sweetness and a subtle molasses undertone.
• Eggs: Help bind the batter and add richness.
• Vegetable Oil: Keeps the bread moist and soft without overpowering the pecan flavor.
• Buttermilk: Adds a slight tang and helps with tenderness thanks to its acidity.
• Baking Soda: Reacts with the buttermilk to give the loaf a good rise.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances all the flavors and adds warmth.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and deepens the flavor of the pecans.

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How To Make the Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper. This ensures an easy release once baked.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine flour, baking soda, and salt. Stir in the chopped pecans so they’re coated in flour—this helps prevent them from sinking during baking.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, both sugars, oil, buttermilk, and vanilla extract until smooth and well-blended.

Step 4: Create the Batter

Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Use a spatula to mix gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread light and fluffy.

Step 5: Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 55-65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a cooling rack. Slice once it’s completely cooled or enjoy warm.

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Serving and Storing Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread

This bread is best enjoyed slightly warm with a dab of butter or cream cheese. It also pairs beautifully with a morning coffee or afternoon tea. Serve thick slices for breakfast or thinner cuts as a sweet snack throughout the day.

To store, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or foil and keep it at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer freshness, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze individual slices for quick treats. Just thaw at room temp or reheat in the toaster oven.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep the pecans from sinking?

Toss them in a bit of flour before mixing them into the batter. This helps them stay evenly distributed.

Can I use milk instead of buttermilk?

Yes, buttermilk adds tang and tenderness. If you don’t have it, mix 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar into 1 cup of milk and let it sit for 5 minutes.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely. Use a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum or add it separately.

Can I make this in muffin form?

You can! Use a muffin tin and bake at 350°F for 18–22 minutes. Check for doneness with a toothpick.

How do I know it’s fully baked?

Insert a toothpick in the center—if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready. The top should also spring back slightly when pressed.

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Want More Pecan Dessert Ideas?

If you’re into pecan-forward bakes, you’ll enjoy the decadent Caramel Banana Pecan Cake—a layered beauty with gooey caramel and banana richness. Or for a fun twist, try the Cinnamon Donut Bread, which also offers a nutty option for customization.

Looking for more snackable treats? The Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries are perfect for bite-sized indulgence. And if you’re after a silky finish, don’t miss the Creamy Easy Egg Custard Pie Recipe—its classic Southern charm will complement any pecan dessert table.

Or dive into the ultimate chewy texture of Thick and Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies. They’re a satisfying contrast to the crumbly sweetness of pecan bread.

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If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you use toasted pecans? Maybe added a cinnamon swirl? Leave a comment below. I’m always curious how yours turns out.

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