Classic Southern Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe with Sweet and Nutty Flavor

Benefits and Advantages of Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread

Sweet Alabama pecan bread offers numerous benefits that make it a beloved choice among home bakers and dessert lovers. First, it boasts a simple preparation process that requires no mixer, making it perfect for cooks of all skill levels. The recipe’s straightforward steps and minimal equipment mean you can enjoy freshly baked bread without fuss.

This bread’s flavor profile is a standout feature, combining the natural sweetness of sugars with the rich, buttery essence of pecans for a delightful nutty taste. The use of pecans not only adds texture but delivers heart-healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants, supporting cardiovascular health and digestive wellness. The bread’s light crust and fluffy interior create a versatile texture suitable for breakfast, snack time, or a sweet side dish.

Another advantage is its adaptability; the recipe can be modified with dietary substitutions without sacrificing the signature taste or moist crumb. Using a 9×13-inch baking pan promotes even baking and reduces cooking time compared to loaf pans, enhancing convenience without compromising results.

Overall, sweet Alabama pecan bread balances ease, nutrition, and flavor, making it an accessible and appealing choice for a wide range of occasions and tastes.

Essential Ingredients for Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread

• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 1 1/2 cups self-rising flour
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups chopped pecans (small or finely chopped recommended)

These ingredients work together to create the moist, tender crumb and sweet, nutty flavor characteristic of this classic Southern bread. Self-rising flour provides the necessary leavening, while the combination of sugar and brown sugar adds depth and caramel notes to the sweetness. The blend of vegetable oil and melted butter guarantees richness and moisture, and eggs bind the mixture for structure. Vanilla extract adds aromatic warmth, and salt balances the sweetness. Lastly, the pecans give the bread its distinctive crunch and healthful fats. Using ingredients like pre-chopped pecans can simplify preparation without loss in flavor or texture.

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread

Sweet Alabama pecan bread can easily be tailored to suit different dietary needs and preferences:

• Gluten-Free: Replace self-rising flour with a gluten-free baking blend and add a pinch of baking powder if needed.
• Vegan: Substitute eggs with flax or chia egg (1 tablespoon seeds soaked in 2.5 tablespoons water per egg), use plant-based butter and a neutral vegetable oil to keep that moist texture.
• Lower-Calorie: Reduce sugar amount or swap for natural sweeteners like stevia or erythritol. Replace some or all of the butter with unsweetened applesauce for moisture with fewer calories.
• Nut Allergies: Swap pecans for seeds such as pumpkin or sunflower seeds to retain texture and crunch without allergens.

These modifications allow you to enjoy a homemade, sweet pecan bread that suits your lifestyle while maintaining its classic taste and signature moistness.

How to Prepare the Perfect Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Combine dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, stir together 1 1/2 cups self-rising flour, 1 cup sugar, 1 cup brown sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon salt until evenly blended.
3. Mix wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk 4 large eggs with 1/2 cup vegetable oil, 1/2 cup melted butter, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
4. Fold wet into dry: Gently stir the wet ingredient mixture into the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the batter.
5. Add pecans: Fold in 2 cups chopped pecans, preferably small or finely chopped for the best texture throughout the bread.
6. Pour and spread: Transfer the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula to create a uniform thickness.
7. Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out mostly clean with only a few moist crumbs.
8. Cool and slice: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing into squares. This resting period helps the bread set and facilitates easier cutting.

Following these simple yet effective steps ensures you achieve a tender, moist loaf with that classic Southern pecan bread charm every time.

For more quick bread recipes that are easy and delicious, check out Quick Bread in 10 Minutes.

Learn how to make your own self-rising flour at home for baking with How to Make Self-Rising Flour at Home.

Advanced Tips and Variations

Take your sweet Alabama pecan bread to the next level by lightly toasting the pecans before folding them into the batter. This simple step enhances their natural nutty flavor and adds an extra satisfying crunch. For a subtle warm spice, consider adding ½ teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg to the dry ingredients without overpowering the sweetness.

For a creamier twist, swirl softened cream cheese or incorporate a handful of chocolate chips into the batter before baking. These additions provide delightful surprises in every bite. To accommodate vegan or low-fat preferences, substitute melted butter with mashed bananas or unsweetened applesauce to maintain moisture while reducing calories.

If you want to mix up the nut profile, try combining pecans with walnuts or pecan halves with chopped pecans for textural variety. Keep an oven thermometer handy to ensure your baking temperature is spot-on, preventing dryness or underbaking. These tips allow you to personalize your pecan bread while respecting its classic southern flavor, helping you achieve perfect results every time.

How to Store Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread: Best Practices

To keep your sweet Alabama pecan bread fresh and moist, store it at room temperature in an airtight container for up to three days. For extended freshness, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate it; this method preserves moisture and flavor for up to one week.

If you plan to keep the bread longer, slicing before freezing is recommended. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap or wax paper, then place them in a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn. The bread freezes well for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw slices overnight in the refrigerator or for a few hours at room temperature, then warm briefly in a microwave or oven to revive its soft texture and aroma.

Proper storage helps retain the bread’s signature light crust and fluffy interior, ensuring each bite tastes freshly baked.

Nutritional Value of Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread

The fat content primarily comes from heart-healthy pecans rich in monounsaturated fats. Fiber content supports digestion, while moderate protein contributes to satiety. The bread also supplies essential micronutrients such as vitamin E, magnesium, and zinc, supporting immune and metabolic health. Nutritional values may vary slightly depending on ingredient substitutions such as gluten-free flours or vegan alternatives.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread

Classic Southern Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe with Sweet and Nutty Flavor

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• Author: Isabella Hayes
• Total Time: 45-50 minutes
• Yield: 12–16 squares 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

🍞 Enjoy the classic Southern charm of Alabama pecan bread with its delightful sweet and nutty flavor.
🌰 This no-mixer, easy-to-make recipe yields a fluffy, tender bread perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

1 cup sugar
1 cup brown sugar
4 large eggs
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup melted butter
1 1/2 cups self-rising flour
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 cups chopped pecans (small or finely chopped preferred)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350ºF (175ºC) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, stir together sugar, brown sugar, eggs, melted butter, and vegetable oil using a spoon until combined.
3. Mix in self-rising flour and salt until just blended.
4. Fold in vanilla extract and chopped pecans gently.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
6. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean.
7. Let bread cool for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing into squares.

Notes

🌰 Use small or finely chopped pecans for a better texture and easier slicing.
⏲️ Avoid overmixing to keep the bread light and fluffy.
🍽️ Use a 9×13-inch pan instead of a loaf pan for even baking and quicker cook time.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
• Category: Bread
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Southern American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 square

Keywords: Classic, Southern, Alabama, Pecan Bread