There’s something about soft Alabama Pecan Bread that feels like a warm Southern afternoon—slow, golden, and deeply satisfying. But don’t let its humble origins fool you—this recipe is a masterclass in balancing texture and flavor.
With its crisp, caramelized edges and a soft, nutty crumb, it’s somewhere between a rich coffee cake and a perfectly dense quick bread. Think of it as the American South’s answer to Italian panforte, where pecans take center stage instead of almonds.
What makes this recipe stand out? It’s ridiculously easy—no yeast, no fuss, just a few pantry staples whisked together to create a bakery-quality loaf. The magic happens when brown sugar and butter meld with toasted pecans, creating a deep, nutty richness that pairs perfectly with your morning coffee or an afternoon tea break.
And here’s a pro tip from the restaurant world: lightly toast the pecans before folding them into the batter. It unlocks a whole new level of depth, bringing out those buttery, roasted notes that make this bread unforgettable.
Why You’ll Be Hooked?
- A Southern Gem with Universal Appeal
The first bite took me straight to a roadside bakery in Alabama, but the flavors reminded me of European nut-studded cakes. It’s the best of both worlds—Southern comfort meets global indulgence. - Ridiculously Easy, Incredibly Rewarding
No yeast, no waiting—just mix, pour, and bake. It’s my go-to when I want something homemade but don’t have hours to spare. - A Canvas for Experimentation
Over the years, I’ve added dark chocolate chunks, a pinch of cinnamon, and even swapped pecans for hazelnuts. It never fails. Try it your way! - Perfectly Sweet Without Being Overwhelming
The balance of brown sugar and pecans creates a caramel-like depth that’s rich but not cloying. You can even enjoy it as a breakfast treat without feeling like you’re eating dessert. - That Texture, Though!
The contrast between the crisp edges and the soft, nutty crumb is addictive. One slice is never enough.
Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
- 1 cup white granulated sugar
- 2 cups chopped pecans toasted
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup brown sugar packed
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- ¼ tsp salt
Instructions
- Set the oven to 350°F and generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together both sugars, vegetable oil, and eggs until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
- Gently fold in the toasted pecans, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Transfer the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly to create a smooth surface.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the top turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing.
- Serve as is or pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Notes
- If using all-purpose flour, add 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder and ¼ teaspoon of baking soda for the right texture.
- Lightly toasting the pecans enhances their flavor and adds a subtle crunch.
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For extra moisture, consider adding a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup.
| Nutrition | Value |
| Calories | 432kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 34g |
| Fibre | 1g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Protein | 18g |
| Cholesterol | 99g |
Variations To Help Your Customise This Dish!
- Nutty Twist – Swap pecans for walnuts, almonds, or a mix of your favorite nuts for a different flavor and texture.
- Spiced Delight – Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to give the bread a warm, cozy flavor.
- Chocolate Lover’s Dream – Stir in ½ cup of chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled bread for an indulgent touch.
- Fruity Boost – Mix in ½ cup of raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped dates for added sweetness and chewiness.
- Coconut-Pecan Fusion – Fold in ½ cup of shredded coconut along with the pecans for a tropical twist.
