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.

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
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
- Step 2: Melt the butter and allow it to cool slightly to avoid cooking the eggs when combined.
- Step 3: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and slightly frothy.
- Step 4: Slowly pour the cooled melted butter into the egg mixture while whisking to blend evenly.
- Step 5: In a separate bowl, stir together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Step 6: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined; overmixing can toughen the bread.
- Step 7: Fold in the chopped pecans, ensuring they’re distributed throughout the batter.
- Step 8: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- 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.
- 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

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.
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Sweet Alabama Pecanbread Recipe
- 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
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
- 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.
- Melt the butter: Melt the butter and let it cool slightly so it won’t cook the eggs when combined, ensuring a smooth mixture.
- 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.
- Add the butter: Slowly pour the cooled melted butter into the wet ingredients while continuously whisking to create a well-blended batter.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, stir together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening and seasoning.
- 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.
- Add pecans: Fold in the chopped toasted pecans evenly throughout the batter to ensure every bite has crunchy nutty goodness.
- 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.
- 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

