Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread

If you love rich, nutty, and irresistibly moist baked goods, this Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is about to become your new favorite treat. Despite the name, it’s more like a dense, gooey cake filled with crunchy pecans and sweet, buttery flavor. Perfect for potlucks, holidays, or a cozy afternoon snack, this Southern classic delivers old-fashioned charm in every bite.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Rich & Moist – Dense like a blondie, with a soft, almost gooey center.
Nutty Perfection – Toasted pecans in every bite for amazing crunch and flavor.
Quick & Easy – Simple ingredients, no mixer required, and ready in under an hour.
Perfect for Sharing – Ideal for holidays, brunches, and bake sales.
Southern Classic – A beloved recipe passed down through generations.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 cup chopped pecans (toasted for extra flavor)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup vegetable oil (or melted butter for a richer taste)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ tsp baking powder

Optional for Serving:

• Powdered sugar for dusting
• A drizzle of caramel sauce
• Scoop of vanilla ice cream

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls
• 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking dish
• Whisk and spatula
• Parchment paper or non-stick spray
• Cooling rack

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease your baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, salt, and baking powder.
Stir in chopped pecans and set aside.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, oil (or melted butter), and vanilla extract until smooth and well blended.

Step 4: Combine and Stir
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir just until everything is incorporated.
The batter will be thick—don’t overmix.

Step 5: Pour into Pan and Bake
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with moist crumbs (not wet batter).

Step 6: Cool and Serve
Let cool in the pan for at least 15–20 minutes before slicing.
Serve warm or at room temperature, dusted with powdered sugar or drizzled with caramel.

Tips for Success
Toast the Pecans – Toasting enhances their flavor and adds extra crunch.
Use Good Vanilla – A quality vanilla extract makes a noticeable difference.
Don’t Overbake – This dessert is best with a moist, soft texture.
Double It – Easily double the recipe and use a 9×13 pan for larger gatherings.
Make It Ahead – Stores well for several days, and flavors get even better the next day.

Serving Suggestions

• Warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream
• With coffee or sweet tea for a Southern-style afternoon treat
• Cut into small squares and serve on a dessert tray
• Wrapped as a homemade gift during holidays

How to Store & Freeze

Storing:
Cover tightly and store at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.

Freezing:
Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months.
Thaw at room temperature and warm slightly before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is it actually bread or cake?
   It’s called bread, but it’s really more of a dense, sweet cake—think pecan blondie.
2. Can I use other nuts?
   Sure! Walnuts or almonds work, but pecans are the classic Southern choice.
3. Can I make it gluten-free?
   Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend—just check the baking time, as it may vary slightly.
4. What oil works best?
   Neutral oils like vegetable, canola, or light olive oil all work well.
5. Can I make it less sweet?
   You can slightly reduce the sugar, but the brown sugar helps give it the signature gooey texture.

Final Thoughts
Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is a simple yet unforgettable dessert that delivers rich flavor and Southern charm in every bite. With a buttery base, crunchy pecans, and a soft, chewy center, it’s the kind of treat you’ll want to keep in your back pocket for holidays, family gatherings, or just because. Try it once and it’ll earn a permanent spot in your recipe box.

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Cuisine: Southern American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 290 | Protein: 3g | Carbohydrates: 32g | Fat: 17g | Fiber: 1g | Sodium: 90mg

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