Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread

Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is a Southern classic that brings rich, comforting flavor to any table. Made with toasted pecans, honey, brown sugar, and a hint of vanilla, each slice is buttery, moist, and full of nutty crunch. It’s the kind of treat I love serving warm with coffee or gifting wrapped in parchment with a jar of honey butter. Whether I’m baking it for family reunions or quiet afternoons, this bread always delivers that signature Southern sweetness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe has all the things I look for in a dessert bread: a moist, tender crumb, deep flavor from brown sugar and honey, and a whole lot of texture from freshly chopped pecans. It’s incredibly easy to make—no mixer needed—and it freezes beautifully. I also love how it actually tastes even better the next day. When I served this at a family reunion, my grandmother asked for the recipe—and that’s how I knew it was a keeper.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

pecans, finely chopped
self-rising flour
granulated sugar
brown sugar
vegetable oil
eggs
vanilla extract
salt
honey
melted butter

Directions

1. Preheat and prepare your pan:
I set the oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. A light coating of butter followed by a dusting of flour works best to prevent sticking.

2. Mix the wet base:
In a large bowl, I combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vegetable oil. I mix until it’s smooth and a bit lighter in color, which means the sugars are starting to dissolve.

3. Add dry ingredients:
I gradually fold in the self-rising flour and salt, being careful not to overmix. The batter should be thick but pourable.

4. Stir in flavor additions:
I mix in the vanilla extract, honey, and melted butter until fully incorporated. These ingredients give the bread its rich, moist flavor and help it stay fresh for days.

5. Fold in the pecans:
I gently stir in the chopped pecans, making sure they’re evenly distributed so each bite is full of nutty crunch.

6. Bake:
I pour the batter into the prepared dish and smooth it out. It bakes for 30–35 minutes, or until the edges start to pull from the pan and a toothpick inserted comes out with just a few moist crumbs.

7. Cool:
Once out of the oven, I let the bread cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes. This helps it set and makes slicing easier without losing moisture.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 12 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Bake time: 35 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

To spice it up, I sometimes add a teaspoon of cinnamon or a touch of nutmeg. For a more indulgent twist, a handful of chocolate chips stirred in with the pecans works beautifully. I’ve even added a splash of bourbon for special occasions—it pairs so well with the honey and nuts. If I want smaller portions, I bake the batter in mini loaf pans and adjust the baking time.

Storage/Reheating

I store this bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, I wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and freeze them for up to 3 months. When I want a warm slice, I reheat it in the microwave or toaster oven until soft and fragrant.

FAQs

What type of pecans work best?

I always use fresh, raw pecans. Toasting them beforehand at 350°F for 8 minutes deepens their flavor and brings out a natural richness.

Can I substitute honey with something else?

Yes, maple syrup or agave syrup can work, though the flavor will shift slightly. I prefer honey for that classic Southern taste.

What’s the best way to serve it?

I serve it warm, either plain or with a drizzle of honey butter. It’s also great with a scoop of vanilla ice cream if I’m turning it into dessert.

Can I freeze this bread?

Definitely. I wrap cooled slices in plastic and freeze them. When ready to enjoy, I thaw at room temperature or reheat gently for that fresh-baked feel.

Do I have to use self-rising flour?

If I’m out of self-rising flour, I make my own by mixing 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour with 2 ¼ tsp baking powder and ½ tsp salt.

Conclusion

Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is a beloved recipe that captures everything I love about Southern baking—warmth, richness, and simplicity. It’s an easy, no-fuss treat that always impresses and comforts. Whether I’m baking it for guests, gifting it to a friend, or just enjoying a slice with my morning coffee, this bread never fails to deliver a little Southern magic in every bite.

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