A rich, buttery, and moist pecan bread that’s a Southern favorite! This sweet bread is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a comforting snack with a cup of coffee.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Rich & Buttery – Loaded with flavor and a tender crumb.
✔ Crunchy Pecans – Adds a delicious nutty texture.
✔ Easy to Make – Simple ingredients, minimal effort.
✔ Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for holidays, gatherings, or everyday treats.
✔ Freezes Well – Make ahead and enjoy later!
Recipe Categories
✔ Cuisine: Southern Comfort Food
✔ Course: Dessert / Snack
✔ Cooking Method: Baking
✔ Difficulty Level: Easy
Cooking & Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Baking Time: 45-50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 8-10 slices
Kitchen Equipment Needed
✅ Large mixing bowl
✅ Whisk or electric mixer
✅ 9×5-inch loaf pan
✅ Measuring cups & spoons
✅ Rubber spatula
✅ Cooling rack
Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe
Ingredients (Serves 8-10)
Wet Ingredients:
✅ ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
✅ 1 cup granulated sugar
✅ ½ cup brown sugar
✅ 2 large eggs
✅ 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
✅ 1 cup buttermilk
Dry Ingredients:
✅ 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
✅ 1 teaspoon baking powder
✅ ½ teaspoon baking soda
✅ ½ teaspoon salt
Add-Ins:
✅ 1 ½ cups chopped pecans, toasted
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and buttermilk, mixing until smooth.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Step 4: Bring It Together
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir just until combined—avoid overmixing for a tender texture. Gently fold in the chopped toasted pecans.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool & Serve
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Slice and enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Tips for the Best Sweet Pecan Bread
✔ Toast the Pecans – Toasting brings out a richer, nuttier flavor. Heat in a dry pan for 3-5 minutes.
✔ Avoid Overmixing – This keeps the bread soft and tender.
✔ Brush with Butter – While warm, brush the top with melted butter for an extra decadent touch.
✔ Storage Tips – Store at room temperature for 3 days, refrigerate for up to 1 week, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Variations & Add-Ins
🍌 Banana Pecan Bread – Add 1 mashed ripe banana for extra moisture.
🍫 Chocolate Chip Pecan Bread – Fold in ½ cup chocolate chips for a sweet twist.
🥃 Bourbon Pecan Bread – Add a splash of bourbon for a Southern kick.
🍎 Apple Pecan Bread – Fold in diced apples for a fall-inspired treat.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different nut instead of pecans?
Yes! Walnuts or almonds work well as substitutes.
2. How do I make buttermilk at home?
Mix 1 cup milk + 1 tablespoon lemon juice and let sit for 5 minutes.
3. Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix.
4. Can I make muffins instead of a loaf?
Absolutely! Divide the batter into a muffin tin and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18-22 minutes.
