Sweet Alabama Pecanbread Recipe

Introduction

Sweet Alabama Pecanbread is a cherished Southern treat that’s not quite cake and not quite bread. Its moist, chewy texture and rich pecan flavor make it irresistible and perfect for any occasion.

The image shows five rectangular slices of nut bread arranged in a vertical line on a wooden surface. Each slice has a golden brown crust with a slightly crunchy texture, and the top layer is dotted with pieces of pecans that add a darker brown contrast. Inside, the bread has a moist, soft, and slightly crumbly texture with small nut fragments dispersed throughout. The edges of the slices are more browned, showing a crispy outline, while the middle layers appear tender and light brown. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1½ cups granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup chopped pecans, lightly toasted

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
  2. Step 2: Melt the butter and allow it to cool slightly to avoid cooking the eggs when combined.
  3. Step 3: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and slightly frothy.
  4. Step 4: Slowly pour the cooled melted butter into the egg mixture while whisking to blend evenly.
  5. Step 5: In a separate bowl, stir together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
  6. Step 6: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined; overmixing can toughen the bread.
  7. Step 7: Fold in the chopped pecans, ensuring they’re distributed throughout the batter.
  8. Step 8: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
  9. Step 9: Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs.
  10. Step 10: Allow the pecanbread to cool slightly before slicing into squares. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Tips & Variations

  • Toast the pecans lightly in a dry skillet to enhance their nutty flavor before adding to the batter.
  • For extra richness, substitute half the granulated sugar with brown sugar.
  • Walnuts can be used instead of pecans if desired, offering a slightly different flavor.
  • Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.

Storage

Store the pecanbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap well and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat slices gently in a microwave or oven before serving for that fresh-baked warmth.

How to Serve

A close-up view of several thick slices of moist pecan cake lined up in a row on a wooden surface. Each slice has two visible layers: a golden brown top layer with a slightly crunchy texture embedded with toasted pecan pieces, and a dense, lighter brown bottom layer with bits of pecans throughout. The edges are darker, showing a well-baked crust. The focus is on the middle slice with a soft blurred background of the other slices. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use walnuts instead of pecans?

Yes! Walnuts are a great substitute and work well in this recipe, though they will give a slightly different flavor profile.

Do I need a mixer to make this pecanbread?

No mixer is needed. This recipe comes together easily with just a whisk and mixing bowls, making it simple and accessible for all home cooks.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Sweet Alabama Pecanbread Recipe


  • Author: Ella
  • Total Time: 40-45 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x

Description

Sweet Alabama Pecanbread is a moist, chewy, and nutty quick bread that perfectly blends the richness of buttery pecans with a soft, almost brownie-like texture. Easy to prepare with simple pantry staples, this Southern-inspired treat is ideal for potlucks, holidays, or a cozy snack paired with coffee or ice cream.


Ingredients

Scale

Pecanbread Ingredients

  • 1 cup chopped fresh pecans (lightly toasted)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar (optional, for extra richness)
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust if using salted butter)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray to ensure the bread does not stick during baking.
  2. Melt the butter: Melt the butter and let it cool slightly so it won’t cook the eggs when combined, ensuring a smooth mixture.
  3. Mix the wet ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, optional brown sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and slightly frothy for good incorporation.
  4. Add the butter: Slowly pour the cooled melted butter into the wet ingredients while continuously whisking to create a well-blended batter.
  5. Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, stir together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening and seasoning.
  6. Fold dry into wet: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture just until combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain the chewy and tender texture of the pecanbread.
  7. Add pecans: Fold in the chopped toasted pecans evenly throughout the batter to ensure every bite has crunchy nutty goodness.
  8. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs.
  9. Cool & serve: Allow the pecanbread to cool slightly before cutting into squares. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or at room temperature for a delicious treat.

Notes

  • Toasting pecans before adding them enhances their flavor and adds crunch.
  • Using room temperature eggs helps the batter mix more evenly.
  • Do not overmix the batter to avoid a dense, tough texture.
  • Walnuts can be used as a substitute for pecans if desired.
  • For richer flavor, optional brown sugar adds a slight molasses note.
  • This recipe is easy to double for larger gatherings.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Southern American

Keywords: Sweet Alabama Pecanbread, pecan bread, Southern dessert, quick bread, nutty bread, easy pecan dessert, potluck dessert, pecan blondies

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating