If you’ve never had Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread, prepare to meet your new favorite Southern treat. And don’t let the name fool you—it’s more like a gooey, chewy blondie bar than actual “bread.” This recipe brings all the sweet, buttery, nutty magic of a pecan pie, but with a rich cake-like texture that practically melts in your mouth.
It’s so simple to make and almost impossible to mess up (my favorite kind of recipe!). Whether you serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or cooled straight from the pan, every bite is pure Southern comfort. 💛
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What Is Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread?
Think of it like the love child of a blondie and a pecan pie—dense, rich, sweet, and full of chopped pecans. It’s soft in the center with lightly crisped edges, thanks to a sugar-and-oil batter that bakes into a perfectly golden dream. And because it’s made with self-rising flour, you don’t even need to fuss with baking soda or powder. Just mix, pour, and bake!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 🧈 Rich, buttery texture with a chewy center
- 🥄 One-bowl batter—no mixer needed!
- 🥜 Pecan-loaded in every bite
- 🧁 Easier than pie but with that same Southern flavor
- ✨ Perfect for potlucks, holidays, or just because
What Does It Taste Like?
This pecan bread is sweet (but not cloying), with caramel-like undertones from the brown sugar and a delicate vanilla finish. The pecans add a toasty, buttery crunch that pairs beautifully with the soft interior. It’s the kind of treat that tastes like it came from your grandma’s kitchen—even if you just whipped it up in 15 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 2 cups self-rising flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Tools You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk or wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Spatula
Optional Additions & Substitutions
- Add chocolate chips for a sweet twist
- Use dark brown sugar for deeper molasses flavor
- Add cinnamon or nutmeg for a spiced version
- Make it gluten-free with a GF self-rising flour blend
- Top with glaze or powdered sugar for a fancier finish
How to Make Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 4 eggs
- 1 cup vegetable oil
Mix until smooth and fully combined.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
Stir in:
- 2 cups self-rising flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Mix until just combined—do not overmix.
Step 4: Add Pecans
Fold in:
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Make sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 5: Bake
Pour the batter into the greased baking dish and spread evenly.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool & Serve
Let the pecan bread cool in the pan for about 15 minutes.
Cut into squares and serve warm or at room temperature.
What to Serve With It
- A scoop of vanilla or butter pecan ice cream
- Fresh whipped cream and berries
- A hot cup of coffee or sweet tea
- Warm caramel sauce drizzled on top
Tips for the Best Pecan Bread
- Use fresh pecans—they make a big flavor difference!
- Don’t overbake—you want the center soft, not dry.
- Let it cool slightly before slicing for cleaner squares
- Toast your pecans beforehand for extra flavor (optional but worth it!)
Storage Instructions
- Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Fridge: Keeps well up to 5 days—just reheat slightly before serving
- Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temp before enjoying
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use regular flour instead of self-rising?
Yes—just add 1 tablespoon baking powder + ½ teaspoon salt to the 2 cups of all-purpose flour.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes! Use a half-sheet pan and increase baking time by 5–10 minutes.
Can I make it nut-free?
Absolutely—just skip the pecans, or substitute with seeds or chocolate chips.
In Conclusion: Sweet, Simple, and Southern to the Core
This Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is the kind of recipe that never goes out of style. It’s easy, dependable, and completely delicious—whether you’re serving it for brunch, dessert, or an anytime snack. Once you try it, you’ll see why it’s a true Southern staple. 🥰
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🍴 Nutrition (Per Serving – Approx. 12 Servings)
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Sugar: 28g
- Protein: 4g
(Nutrition info is approximate and may vary based on ingredients.)
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