If you’re craving a sweet, nutty, and irresistibly moist treat, this Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is just what you need. With its rich brown sugar flavor, crunchy pecan bits, and tender crumb, this Southern classic makes the perfect dessert, snack, or even a breakfast indulgence. It’s incredibly easy to whip up and guaranteed to win over any crowd.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Easy to Make – Just mix, pour, and bake with simple pantry staples.
Loaded with Pecans – Every bite is full of sweet, nutty crunch.
Perfectly Moist – Thanks to the combination of oil and brown sugar.
Crowd-Pleaser – Great for potlucks, holidays, or gifting.
Freezer-Friendly – Make a batch ahead and freeze for later.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Pecan Bread:
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1½ cups chopped pecans
For Greasing the Pan:
- 1 tbsp butter or non-stick spray
- 1 tbsp flour (for dusting the pan)
Tools You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 9×13 inch baking pan or 2 standard loaf pans
- Cooling rack
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Baking Pan
Grease your baking pan with butter or non-stick spray.
Dust it lightly with flour to prevent sticking.
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vegetable oil until well combined.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined.
Do not overmix, as this could make the bread dense.
Step 4: Fold in the Pecans
Gently fold in the chopped pecans using a rubber spatula.
Make sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 5: Pour and Smooth the Batter
Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
Use the spatula to smooth the top evenly.
Step 6: Bake the Bread
Place the pan in the oven and bake for 45–55 minutes.
Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—it should come out clean.
If using loaf pans, reduce the baking time to 35–45 minutes.
Step 7: Cool and Slice
Let the bread cool in the pan for 15 minutes.
Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Slice into squares or thick slices and serve!
Tips for the Best Pecan Bread
Use Fresh Pecans – Always opt for fresh, unsalted pecans for the best flavor.
Don’t Overmix – Stir just until the flour is incorporated to keep the bread tender.
Cool Completely – Cutting too early can cause the bread to crumble.
Toast Pecans – For extra flavor, toast the pecans lightly before adding them.
Double the Batch – This freezes beautifully, so make an extra loaf for later.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Warm with Butter – A pat of butter takes this bread to the next level.
Pair with Coffee or Tea – Perfect for breakfast or a cozy afternoon treat.
Add a Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream – Turns this simple bread into a decadent dessert.
Top with a Cream Cheese Glaze – Optional, but delicious for special occasions.
How to Store & Freeze
Storing:
Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Refrigerate: Keeps well in the fridge for up to a week.
Freezing:
Wrap individual slices or whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag.
Freeze for up to 3 months.
Thaw at room temperature or gently warm in the microwave.
Reheating:
Microwave: Warm slices for 10–15 seconds.
Oven: Wrap in foil and warm in a 300°F oven for 5–10 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use dark brown sugar instead of light?
Yes! It will give a deeper molasses flavor, which is also delicious. - What if I don’t have vegetable oil?
You can use canola oil or even melted coconut oil as an alternative. - Can I add spices?
Absolutely! A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg complements the pecans nicely. - How do I keep the pecans from sinking?
Toss them in a bit of flour before folding into the batter. - Is this more like bread or cake?
It has the texture of a moist cake but is traditionally served as a sweet bread.
Final Thoughts
Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is everything you want in a homemade treat—easy, comforting, and full of rich Southern charm. Whether you’re making it for family gatherings, gifting during the holidays, or just satisfying a sweet craving, this recipe is a guaranteed hit.
Give it a try and let the warm, nutty goodness fill your kitchen! Don’t forget to share your version online and tag us with your baking creations!
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Cuisine: American
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 380 | Protein: 4g | Carbohydrates: 38g | Fat: 24g | Fiber: 2g | Sodium: 180mg

Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread
- Total Time: 1 hour
Description
If you’re craving a sweet, nutty, and irresistibly moist treat, this Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is just what you need. With its rich brown sugar flavor, crunchy pecan bits, and tender crumb, this Southern classic makes the perfect dessert, snack, or even a breakfast indulgence. It’s incredibly easy to whip up and guaranteed to win over any crowd.
Want recipes like this delivered straight to your inbox? Subscribe now to get the latest Southern baking favorites you’ll love.
Ingredients
For the Pecan Bread:
-
1 cup light brown sugar, packed
-
1 cup granulated sugar
-
1 cup vegetable oil
-
4 large eggs
-
1½ cups all-purpose flour
-
1 tsp baking powder
-
½ tsp salt
-
1 tsp vanilla extract
-
1½ cups chopped pecans
For Greasing the Pan:
-
1 tbsp butter or non-stick spray
-
1 tbsp flour (for dusting the pan)
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Baking Pan
Grease your baking pan with butter or non-stick spray.
Dust it lightly with flour to prevent sticking.
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vegetable oil until well combined.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined.
Do not overmix, as this could make the bread dense.
Step 4: Fold in the Pecans
Gently fold in the chopped pecans using a rubber spatula.
Make sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 5: Pour and Smooth the Batter
Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
Use the spatula to smooth the top evenly.
Step 6: Bake the Bread
Place the pan in the oven and bake for 45–55 minutes.
Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—it should come out clean.
If using loaf pans, reduce the baking time to 35–45 minutes.
Step 7: Cool and Slice
Let the bread cool in the pan for 15 minutes.
Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Slice into squares or thick slices and serve!
Notes
Use Fresh Pecans – Always opt for fresh, unsalted pecans for the best flavor.
Don’t Overmix – Stir just until the flour is incorporated to keep the bread tender.
Cool Completely – Cutting too early can cause the bread to crumble.
Toast Pecans – For extra flavor, toast the pecans lightly before adding them.
Double the Batch – This freezes beautifully, so make an extra loaf for later.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Cuisine: American