Golden, nutty, and impossibly moist, this Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is the southern loaf you didn’t know you needed. Loaded with crunchy pecans and a rich, buttery flavor, it blurs the line between cake and quick bread. It’s perfect for gifting, brunching, or simply slicing up with coffee in hand.

What sets this recipe apart is the texture—slightly dense, yet fluffy, with pecans in every bite. You won’t find frosting here; this loaf shines on its own with a tender crumb and deeply toasted nutty notes that fill your kitchen with that unmistakable homemade warmth.
Why You’ll Love This Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread
- No mixer needed — everything stirs up in one bowl.
- Packed with pecans — every slice is studded with crunch.
- Freezer-friendly — make one for now and one for later.
- Perfect for holidays — wrap it up for a delicious edible gift.
- Not overly sweet — it balances beautifully between dessert and breakfast.
Can I Use Different Types of Nuts?
Absolutely! While pecans are the star and add a signature southern charm, you can experiment with walnuts or even almonds. Just be sure to toast your nuts slightly before mixing in to maximize flavor and crunch.
Ingredients for the Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread
Each ingredient in this recipe brings something essential to the loaf. Let’s break it down:
- All-purpose flour — forms the base structure and provides that tender crumb.
- Granulated sugar — adds sweetness without overpowering the pecan flavor.
- Brown sugar — adds a touch of molasses for depth and moisture.
- Chopped pecans — the heart of this recipe; they add crunch and nutty richness.
- Eggs — bind everything together and provide moisture.
- Vegetable oil — keeps the bread ultra moist without needing butter.
- Vanilla extract — brings warmth and enhances all other flavors.
- Baking powder — lifts the bread just enough for a soft interior.
- Salt — balances the sweetness and deepens flavor.
How To Make the Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread
Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, chopped pecans, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.
Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients
In the same bowl, add the eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Stir gently with a wooden spoon or spatula until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 3: Prep the Pan and Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard loaf pan (9×5 inch) and line it with parchment paper if desired. Pour the batter in and spread evenly.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving and Storing Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread
This bread serves 8 generous slices, though you might find yourself going back for seconds. Serve it slightly warm with a pat of butter, or even as a dessert with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
To store, wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil and keep at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze slices individually for quick snacks later.
What to Serve With Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread?
Coffee or Cold Brew
Perfect for breakfast or brunch. The nuttiness complements your favorite morning cup.
Vanilla Ice Cream
Serve a warmed slice with a scoop of vanilla for an effortless dessert.
Whipped Cream and Fresh Berries
Adds a light, fresh contrast to the rich bread.
Greek Yogurt with Honey
Turn this into a protein-rich breakfast bowl with a slice on the side.
Apple Butter or Cinnamon Spread
Smear on top for a cozy fall-inspired twist.
Cheese Plate
Pair with creamy brie or sharp cheddar for an unexpected yet delightful combo.
Hot Cocoa
A winter pairing made in heaven. Bonus points if you add marshmallows.
Want More Bread Ideas with a Twist?
If you love this cozy Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread, don’t miss these other comforting favorites:
- Greek Yogurt Zucchini Bread — Moist, protein-packed, and subtly sweet.
- Banana Bread Cookies — All the flavor of banana bread in soft cookie form.
- Mini Pecan Tarts — Perfect for bite-sized indulgence.
- Nutella French Toast Casserole — For mornings when you want dessert for breakfast.
- Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake — A decadent end to any southern meal.
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? Add a glaze on top? Try freezing it?
I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.
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Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (8 servings)
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is the ultimate Southern-inspired treat—moist, nutty, and rich with flavor. It’s easy to make in one bowl and features crunchy toasted pecans in every bite. Whether you need quick breakfast ideas, an easy recipe for brunch, or just love classic food ideas with a twist, this comforting loaf checks every box. It’s also freezer-friendly and makes a wonderful edible gift.
Ingredients
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup brown sugar
1 cup chopped pecans
4 large eggs
1 cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking powder
0.5 teaspoon salt
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, pecans, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Pour the batter into prepared loaf pan and spread evenly.
5. Bake for 50–60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
Toasting the pecans before adding them will intensify the nutty flavor.
Let the loaf cool completely before slicing for the cleanest cuts.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Breads
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 170mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 19g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 51g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
