Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread

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This Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is one of those old-fashioned Southern treats that hits every nostalgic note for me. It’s moist, buttery, perfectly sweet, and loaded with crunchy pecans in every bite. I first made it on a lazy Sunday afternoon, and the aroma that filled my kitchen instantly took me back to my grandmother’s house in Mobile, Alabama—where pecan trees dotted the backyard and dessert was always homemade.

Whether you’re baking for a holiday brunch, gifting a loaf to a neighbor, or just craving a warm slice of something cozy with your morning coffee, this pecan bread delivers every single time. It has the richness of banana bread without the fruit, and it pairs beautifully with butter or honey drizzle. This is comfort food in its truest form.

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Why You’ll Love This Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread

This bread is a true crowd-pleaser. It’s simple to make, doesn’t require a mixer, and comes together in just one bowl. You’ll love the crackly, caramelized crust on top and the soft, almost cake-like texture inside. The roasted pecans add depth and crunch, and it’s just sweet enough to enjoy as dessert or a snack. Plus, it stays moist for days—if it lasts that long!

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What Kind of Pecans Should I Use?

I always go for fresh, unsalted pecan halves and chop them coarsely so you still get those delicious chunky bits throughout the bread. If you want a more pronounced pecan flavor, toasting them beforehand brings out their natural oils and nuttiness. But even straight out of the bag, pecans give this bread its signature Southern charm.

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Options for Substitutions

If you’re short on pecans or baking for someone with a nut allergy, you can use chopped walnuts or even skip the nuts entirely—though the texture will change. For a slightly different flavor, swap out half the sugar for brown sugar to add a caramel undertone. You can also use gluten-free flour blends if needed, just be sure to add a binding agent like xanthan gum if your blend doesn’t include one.

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Ingredients for this Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread

• All-purpose flour – Forms the base of the bread and gives it structure. Sift it for a smoother crumb.
• Granulated sugar – Provides the main sweetness and helps create that irresistible crust.
• Vegetable oil – Keeps the bread incredibly moist without overpowering flavor.
• Large eggs – Bind the ingredients together and give the bread richness.
• Chopped pecans – The star ingredient! Adds crunch, flavor, and Southern character.
• Baking powder – Helps the bread rise and become light and fluffy.
• Salt – Enhances the flavor and balances the sweetness.
• Vanilla extract – Adds depth and a warm, aromatic flavor.

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Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prep the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or nonstick spray and lightly dust it with flour to prevent sticking.

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Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. This ensures that your leavening agents are evenly distributed.

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Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Crack in the eggs, pour in the oil, and add the vanilla extract. Stir until everything is fully combined. The batter will be thick but smooth.

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Step 4: Fold in the Pecans

Add the chopped pecans and gently fold them into the batter using a spatula. Make sure they’re evenly spread throughout the mixture so you get some in every bite.

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Step 5: Pour and Smooth

Transfer the batter to your prepared loaf pan. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly. If you like, you can press a few pecan halves on top for a decorative finish.

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Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake in the center of the oven for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out clean. The top should be golden brown and slightly crisp.

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Step 7: Cool and Slice

Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Allow it to cool completely before slicing to avoid crumbling.

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How Long to Prepare the Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread

Prep Time: The preparation takes about 15 minutes. This includes chopping the pecans, measuring ingredients, and mixing everything together in one bowl. You won’t need any special equipment, and cleanup is minimal.

Baking Time: Bake the bread at 350°F (175°C) for 50 to 60 minutes. The top should turn a beautiful golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean. Let it cool for another 10 minutes in the pan before moving it to a wire rack to cool fully.

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Tips for Perfect Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread

• Use fresh pecans for maximum flavor and crunch.
• Don’t overmix the batter after adding the flour—mix just until combined to avoid a dense loaf.
• Toast the pecans lightly for a richer, nuttier flavor.
• Line the pan with parchment paper for easy removal and cleaner slices.
• Let the bread cool completely before slicing to get clean cuts without crumbling.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overbaking: This can dry out the bread. Start checking at 50 minutes.
• Uneven mixing: This can lead to pockets of flour or dense spots.
• Old leavening agents: Baking powder that’s past its prime won’t give you a proper rise.
• Using too much oil: It can make the bread greasy rather than moist.
• Skipping the cooling time: Slicing too soon can ruin the texture.

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What to Serve With Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread?

1. Honey Butter

Spread on a warm slice—it melts beautifully and adds a sweet, creamy layer.

2. Cream Cheese

A tangy contrast to the sweet bread, perfect for breakfast or brunch.

3. Fresh Fruit

Serve with sliced apples, berries, or a fruit salad to keep it light.

4. Whipped Cream or Greek Yogurt

Adds a soft, creamy texture and elevates it to dessert status.

5. Coffee or Spiced Tea

The warm, nutty notes of the bread go perfectly with a hot beverage.

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Storage Instructions

At Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep it in a cool, dry place away from sunlight to preserve its texture.

In the Refrigerator: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 1 week. Let it come to room temperature before serving.

Freezing: Wrap the cooled loaf or individual slices in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm briefly in the microwave.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per Slice (based on 10 slices):

• Calories: 320
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 17g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Sugar: 18g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 4g
• Sodium: 160mg
• Cholesterol: 35mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this bread without nuts?

Yes, you can omit the pecans, but the texture and flavor will be different. Consider adding shredded coconut or chocolate chips as a substitute.

Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes, but it will make the bread denser. Try using half whole wheat and half all-purpose for a balanced texture.

Can I freeze this bread?

Absolutely. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat gently.

Is this bread too sweet for breakfast?

Not at all—it’s sweet, but not overly so. It pairs well with coffee and makes a great start to the day.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! Just use two loaf pans and rotate them halfway through baking for even results.

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Conclusion

Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is the kind of recipe that becomes a family favorite the moment you serve it. With its buttery crumb, rich pecan flavor, and ease of preparation, it’s ideal for gifting, gatherings, or just treating yourself on a slow morning. Make it once, and you’ll see why it’s a staple in Southern kitchens. Enjoy it warm, share it with friends, and don’t be surprised when you’re asked for the recipe again and again.

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