Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread

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Buttery, moist, and packed with toasted pecans, Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is everything we love about Southern baking in one sliceable loaf. This isn’t your ordinary quick bread—it’s got a caramelized crust and a soft, rich interior dotted with nutty crunch in every bite. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, dessert, or alongside a cozy cup of coffee, it’s the kind of old-fashioned comfort food that gets gobbled up fast.

Drizzled with a simple glaze or served plain, this bread is just sweet enough without being overpowering. It’s an excellent make-ahead treat for gatherings, holidays, or a sweet gift from your kitchen. Let the pecans shine in this Southern classic that’s been passed around potlucks and family tables for generations.

Why You’ll Love This Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread

This recipe is pure comfort. The texture is perfect: moist but never soggy, dense yet tender. The pecans toast as the bread bakes, creating pockets of buttery, nutty goodness throughout. With minimal effort and pantry staples, you get a rustic loaf that looks impressive and tastes even better.

It also freezes well and tastes even more flavorful the next day, making it ideal for prepping ahead.

What Kind of Pecans Should I Use?

Fresh, raw pecan halves or pieces work beautifully. Toasting them before mixing into the batter boosts their nutty aroma, but it’s not required. Make sure your pecans are unsalted and not candied to keep the sweetness balanced. If you buy pre-chopped pecans, give them a rough chop to keep texture consistent.

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Ingredients

• All-purpose flour – Forms the base of the bread, providing structure.
• Granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and helps create the caramelized crust.
• Brown sugar – Enhances moisture and gives depth of flavor.
• Eggs – Bind the batter and add richness.
• Baking powder – Lifts the bread and creates a light texture.
• Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
• Chopped pecans – The star of the show; adds crunch and Southern charm.
• Milk – Moistens the batter and adds tenderness.
• Unsalted butter – Adds richness and flavor.
• Vanilla extract – Boosts overall flavor and adds warmth.

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How To Make the Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease and flour a standard 9×5 inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and both sugars until combined.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, melted unsalted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 4: Make the Batter

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined—do not overmix. Fold in the chopped pecans gently.

Step 5: Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

Step 6: Optional Glaze

If desired, drizzle with a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk once the bread is completely cool.

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How to Serve This Sweet Bread

This recipe yields one 9×5 inch loaf, which comfortably serves 8 to 10 people depending on slice thickness. Serve it slightly warm with butter or a drizzle of honey, or chilled with coffee for a breakfast treat. It’s also a delightful afternoon snack or dessert alongside whipped cream or ice cream.

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How to Store Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread

Once fully cooled, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It stays fresh at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze slices individually wrapped for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat in the microwave for 10–15 seconds for that fresh-baked feel.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this bread without nuts?
Yes! You can omit the pecans entirely, or replace them with another mix-in like chocolate chips or dried cranberries.

2. What kind of milk works best?
Whole milk is ideal for a rich, moist crumb, but 2% or even plant-based options like almond or oat milk can be used with good results.

3. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. You can double the ingredients and divide the batter between two loaf pans. Adjust the baking time accordingly, and test both for doneness.

4. What’s the best glaze to pair with it?
A simple mix of powdered sugar and milk works great. Add a splash of vanilla or maple extract for extra flavor. You can also use a brown sugar butter glaze for a richer finish.

5. Why did my bread sink in the middle?
Overmixing the batter or underbaking can cause sinking. Always check with a toothpick to ensure it’s fully baked before removing from the oven.

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Want More Sweet Bread Ideas?

If you love this nutty Southern treat, you might enjoy these other bakes too:

• Cream Cheese Cranberry Loaf
• Lemon Zucchini Bread
• Pumpkin Bread
• Apple Fritter Cake
• Apple Crisp Cheesecake

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Save This Pin 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 the pecans first? Did you add a glaze or keep it classic?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.

Check out more deliciously cozy recipes on my Pinterest: Life With Livia

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