Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread

Soft, chewy, nutty, and irresistibly sweet—Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is a beloved Southern classic that tastes like a cross between a pecan pie and a blondie. Despite its name, this dish is more of a rich dessert bar than a traditional bread. It’s incredibly easy to make, bursting with toasted pecans, and perfect for sharing during holidays, potlucks, or cozy family gatherings.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Irresistibly Gooey – Moist and chewy texture that melts in your mouth.
Loaded with Pecans – Crunchy, buttery pecans in every bite.
Quick to Make – No mixer, no fuss, and ready in under an hour.
Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for dessert tables, snacks, or edible gifts.
Southern Charm – A comforting recipe steeped in tradition and flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 cup chopped pecans (toasted for extra flavor)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt

Optional Add-Ons:

• Powdered sugar (for dusting)
• A drizzle of caramel or honey
• Scoop of vanilla ice cream

Tools You’ll Need

• 8×8 or 9×9 inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk or spoon
• Parchment paper or nonstick spray
• Cooling rack

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease your baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Toast the Pecans (Optional but Recommended)
Spread chopped pecans on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 5–7 minutes.
Let cool slightly before using.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, brown sugar, and granulated sugar.
Add the toasted pecans and stir to combine.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, oil (or butter), and vanilla until smooth.

Step 5: Combine and Stir
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir just until combined.
The batter will be thick and sticky.

Step 6: Pour and Bake
Spoon the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top evenly.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with moist crumbs.

Step 7: Cool and Slice
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
Slice into bars or squares and serve warm or at room temperature.

Tips for Success
Use Fresh Pecans – Freshly toasted pecans deliver the best flavor and crunch.
Don’t Overbake – Keep the gooey center by removing from the oven as soon as a toothpick has just a few moist crumbs.
Customize It – Add a touch of cinnamon, or mix in chocolate chips or shredded coconut for a twist.
Double the Batch – Easily double the recipe for a 9×13 pan if feeding a crowd.
Serve It Warm – Slightly warm with a scoop of ice cream for a real treat.

Serving Suggestions

• Dust with powdered sugar for a simple finish
• Top with whipped cream or ice cream
• Add to a dessert board with fruit and cookies
• Serve with coffee or sweet tea for a Southern touch

How to Store & Freeze

Storing:
Cover and store at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for 5 days.

Freezing:
Wrap individual pieces tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
Let thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave for a few seconds.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is it really bread?
   Not exactly. It’s more of a dense, dessert-like bar or cake with a chewy texture.
2. Can I use other nuts?
   Yes, but pecans are traditional and offer the best flavor for this Southern favorite.
3. Can I use butter instead of oil?
   Absolutely! Melted butter adds a richer, deeper flavor.
4. Can I make it less sweet?
   You can reduce the sugar slightly, but keep enough to retain that signature gooey texture.
5. Can I bake this in a loaf pan?
   It’s not ideal, as the center may take too long to bake. Stick with a square pan for best results.

Final Thoughts
Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is a simple, classic dessert that brings sweet, nutty flavor and Southern comfort to any table. Whether you’re baking it for a family gathering or just to satisfy a sweet craving, this dish never fails to impress. Easy to make, easy to love, and even easier to devour.

Give it a try—and don’t forget to share a slice (if there’s any left)!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Cuisine: Southern American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 310 | Protein: 3g | Carbohydrates: 34g | Fat: 18g | Fiber: 1g | Sodium: 95mg

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