Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread

This Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread recipe delivers a moist, buttery loaf brimming with the warmth of Southern hospitality. Each bite is flecked with toasty pecans and rich with a classic combination of brown and white sugars. I always bake this bread when I need a comforting treat to share or package up for a heartfelt homemade gift. The aroma alone will make your kitchen feel like a Southern bakery.

My family first tasted this bread when we visited relatives in Alabama. It instantly became a favorite at every holiday, and now I bake it for everything from brunch to new neighbor gifts.

Ingredients

• Unsalted butter: gives the bread its rich flavor and perfect moist crumb. Look for butter with few ingredients for best quality
• Granulated and brown sugars: add deep sweetness and help keep the loaf extra moist. Use fresh brown sugar that is soft and fragrant
• Large eggs: help hold the bread together and add richness. Let eggs come up to room temperature for the fluffiest texture
• Vanilla extract: enhances both the pecans and butter. Real vanilla makes a difference
• Buttermilk: keeps the bread tender and adds that classic Southern tang. Use cultured buttermilk or create your own with milk and lemon juice
• All-purpose flour: gives just the right structure. Sift it if it seems clumpy
• Baking powder and baking soda: work together to make the loaf rise high and light
• Kosher salt: balances the sweetness and brings out the pecan flavor. Flaky salt also works
• Pecans: add an unmistakable nutty crunch throughout. Choose fresh pecans that smell sweet and nutty. Toast them for even more flavor
• Butter and flour for greasing the pan: so every slice comes out clean

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare Your Oven and Pan:

Preheat your oven to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a nine by five inch loaf pan with butter, making sure to go up the sides. Dust with flour and tap out the extra. This prevents sticking and gives the loaf a beautiful golden crust

Mix the Sweet Base:

In a large mixing bowl whisk together melted butter granulated sugar and brown sugar until the mixture is glossy and smooth. This is the heart of your bread’s flavor and moisture

Add Eggs and Vanilla:

Crack in the eggs one at a time whisking well after each. Stir in the vanilla extract so the mixture becomes silky and aromatic

Incorporate the Buttermilk:

Pour in the buttermilk and stir gently to combine. The mixture might look a bit lumpy but that is normal at this stage

Combine Dry Ingredients:

In a separate medium bowl whisk flour baking powder baking soda and salt until evenly combined. Mixing these dry ingredients first ensures even rise and texture

Bring It All Together:

Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in two or three additions. Stir gently with a spatula just until combined. Do not overmix because a few lumps are fine and will help your bread stay soft

Fold in the Pecans:

Gently fold in the chopped pecans until they are distributed throughout the batter. This creates pockets of crunchy perfection in each slice

Bake to Perfection:

Scrape the thick batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top gently. Set the pan in the oven on the center rack and bake for fifty to sixty minutes. The top should turn golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs

Cool and Serve:

Set the pan on a cooling rack and let the bread sit for ten minutes before turning it out. Rest the loaf on the rack until completely cool then slice with a serrated knife and enjoy

Pin

My own favorite part is the scent of toasted pecans that fills the kitchen halfway through baking. There is a special memory of my grandmother slicing into a warm loaf on a breezy Southern porch with cousins gathered around waiting for their turn.

Storage Tips

Once cooled wrap leftovers in foil or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage freeze slices individually then pop in the toaster for a quick snack. Be sure not to slice until fully cool to keep the crumb moist.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have buttermilk whisk a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar into a cup of milk and let it stand five minutes. Walnuts or hazelnuts make a wonderful substitute for pecans. For variety stir in dried cranberries or chocolate chips along with the nuts.

Serving Suggestions

This bread is wonderful with a simple pat of butter for breakfast and pairs perfectly with coffee or tea. For dessert top warm slices with vanilla ice cream or drizzle lightly with honey. It also makes a welcome addition to any holiday brunch spread.

A Tradition with Deep Southern Roots

Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is a classic in the South because it celebrates simple ingredients and time honored tradition. For generations families have enjoyed this bread as a sweet breakfast treat or a special gift during the holidays. Every slice is full of memories and comfort.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I substitute other nuts for pecans?

Yes, walnuts, hazelnuts, or almonds can be used in place of pecans for a different flavor and texture.

→ What makes the crumb so moist?

The combination of melted butter, brown sugar, and buttermilk provides this bread with a tender, moist texture.

→ How do I prevent the top from over-browning?

If the top browns too quickly, loosely tent the loaf with foil after 30–40 minutes of baking to prevent burning.

→ Is there a buttermilk substitute?

You can mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar, letting it sit for 5 minutes before use.

→ Why is the bread dense?

Overmixing the batter can cause density; stir until just combined for a light and tender loaf.

→ What variations can I try?

Add mini chocolate chips, dried cranberries, shredded coconut, or lemon zest for unique twists on the classic.