Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread 🍞✨

If you’re in the mood for something irresistibly sweet, nutty, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious, this Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is the perfect treat. Despite its name, it’s more like a dense, moist cake packed with crunchy pecans and a rich, buttery flavor that’s impossible to resist. It’s the kind of recipe that’s been passed down through generations, often enjoyed at Southern gatherings, potlucks, or simply with a warm cup of coffee.

Get ready to fall in love with every bite of this buttery, nutty goodness—it’s easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and perfect for sharing (if you don’t eat it all first!). 😉

Why You’ll Love This Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread

Incredibly Moist: Thanks to the buttermilk and melted butter.
Crunchy, Nutty Goodness: Loaded with chopped pecans in every bite.
Easy to Make: No fancy equipment needed—just mix, pour, and bake.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or a snack with coffee or tea.

What Does It Taste Like? 🤤

Imagine a soft, buttery cake with a rich caramel-like sweetness from brown sugar and the satisfying crunch of toasted pecans throughout. The buttermilk adds a slight tang that balances the sweetness perfectly, while the vanilla brings warmth and depth. It’s dense yet tender, sweet but not overwhelming, with a lovely nutty texture that makes it utterly addictive. Trust me—you won’t stop at just one slice!

Ingredients You’ll Need

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted 🧈 (adds rich, buttery flavor)
1 cup granulated sugar 🍬 (for sweetness)
1/2 cup brown sugar 🍯 (adds moisture and a caramel-like depth)
2 large eggs 🥚 (for structure and richness)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract 🌼 (adds warmth and enhances flavor)
1 cup buttermilk 🥛 (keeps the bread moist and tender)
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 🌾 (provides the perfect structure)
1 teaspoon baking powder 🥄 (for a slight lift)
1/4 teaspoon baking soda (helps with the buttermilk’s acidity)
1/2 teaspoon salt 🧂 (balances the sweetness)
1 cup chopped pecans 🥜 (the star of the show!)

Tools You’ll Need

Mixing bowls
Whisk or hand mixer
Measuring cups and spoons
9×13-inch baking dish or loaf pan
Parchment paper or non-stick spray

Ingredient Additions & Substitutions

Nut Swap: Try walnuts or almonds if you don’t have pecans.
Add a Glaze: A simple powdered sugar glaze or cream cheese frosting takes it to the next level.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor.
Dairy-Free: Use almond milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice as a buttermilk substitute and plant-based butter.

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 or loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray, or line with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 3: Add the Buttermilk

Pour in the buttermilk and mix until fully combined. The batter may look slightly curdled—that’s normal due to the acidity in the buttermilk.

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this keeps the bread tender.

Step 5: Fold in the Pecans

Gently fold in the chopped pecans until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 6: Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 30–35 minutes (if using a 9×13-inch pan) or 45–50 minutes (for a loaf pan), or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool & Serve

Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice, serve, and enjoy!

Optional Glaze (for Extra Sweetness!) ✨

If you want to add a simple glaze:

1 cup powdered sugar
2–3 tablespoons milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Whisk together until smooth, then drizzle over the cooled bread.

What to Serve with Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread

A Hot Cup of Coffee or Tea: Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat.
Fresh Fruit: Berries or sliced apples add a refreshing contrast.
Whipped Cream or Ice Cream: For an indulgent dessert vibe.
Yogurt & Honey: A great pairing for brunch.

Tips for Perfect Pecan Bread

Don’t Overmix: Stir until the ingredients are just combined to avoid dense bread.
Toast the Pecans: For extra flavor, toast the pecans in a dry skillet for 3–4 minutes before adding to the batter.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Helps the batter mix evenly.
Let It Cool: The bread will set as it cools, making it easier to slice.

How to Store & Freeze

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Refrigerate: If you added a glaze, refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Freeze: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.

2. What if I don’t have buttermilk?
Make a quick substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

3. Can I use self-rising flour?
Yes, but skip the baking powder, baking soda, and salt if you do.

4. How do I know when it’s done?
Insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, it’s ready.

Wrapping It Up 🍞✨

This Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is the perfect combination of buttery, sweet, and nutty. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, dessert, or as a snack with coffee, it’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing recipe that’s easy to whip up and even easier to love.

If you make this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a review, snap a photo, and share it on Pinterest or Instagram—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. 😍

Craving More Sweet Treats?

Southern Butter Pecan Cake
Old-Fashioned Banana Bread
Cinnamon Pecan Coffee Cake

Happy baking, and enjoy every sweet, nutty bite! 😊🍯🥜