Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread – Rich & Nutty Treat

Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is a rich, buttery quick bread studded with toasted pecans and sweet spices. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, it’s moist, flavorful, and naturally irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft, moist bread with sweet, nutty crunch
• Perfect for breakfast, snack, or dessert
• Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients
• Can be made ahead and sliced for gifting
• Bursting with Southern flavor and aroma

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted
• Optional: 1/4 cup brown sugar for topping

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
5. Alternately add dry ingredients and buttermilk to the wet mixture, starting and ending with dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
6. Fold in toasted pecans.
7. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and sprinkle optional brown sugar and extra pecans on top.
8. Bake 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips & Variations

• Toast pecans beforehand to enhance their flavor
• Substitute half the flour with whole wheat for a nuttier taste
• Drizzle with caramel glaze or cream cheese frosting for dessert
• Add a handful of chocolate chips for extra indulgence
• Slice and freeze leftover bread for up to 2 months

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days
• Refrigerate for up to 1 week to keep fresh
• Freeze slices individually in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months
• Thaw at room temperature or lightly toast before serving
• Keep topping separate if adding glaze to maintain texture

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Serve warm with a pat of butter or cream cheese
• Pair with coffee, tea, or hot chocolate
• Add fresh fruit on the side for a balanced breakfast
• Slice for brunch platters or holiday gatherings
• Use as a base for bread pudding or French toast

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

Yes, add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar per 1/2 cup milk to mimic buttermilk’s acidity.

How do I prevent bread from sinking in the middle?

Avoid overmixing the batter and ensure the oven is fully preheated.

Can I make this bread gluten-free?

Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and adjust baking time slightly.

Can I toast the bread slices?

Absolutely, slices toast beautifully and enhance the nutty flavor of the pecans.

Ready to Make It?

This Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is buttery, nutty, and fragrant—perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Moist and easy to make, it’s a Southern classic you’ll want to bake again and again. Save this recipe for a comforting, nut-filled treat anytime.

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• Cherry Pie Cookies – Handheld cherry treats with buttery crust.

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