Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe
This Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe is a classic Southern-style quick bread bursting with brown sugar, crunchy toasted pecans, and warm vanilla flavor. Moist, buttery, and rich in texture, it's the perfect easy dessert recipe to whip up for potlucks, brunch, or just a sweet treat at home. Ready in under an hour with simple pantry ingredients, this pecan bread is a delightful cross between a cake and a loaf that everyone will love.
Equipment
- Mixing bowls (large and medium)
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- 9x13-inch baking dish
- Whisk or hand mixer
- Spatula
- Wire rack
- Toothpick (for doneness test)
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups light brown sugar packed
- 2 cups chopped pecans toasted for best flavor
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat Oven & Prep Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Mix Wet Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and brown sugar together until thick and creamy. Add the vegetable oil and vanilla extract, stirring until smooth.
- Add Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
- Fold in Pecans
- Gently fold in the chopped pecans so they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Bake
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool & Serve
- Let the bread cool in the pan for about 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
Toasting Pecans: Lightly toast pecans in a skillet or oven (350°F for 5–7 minutes) for a deeper nutty flavor.
Storage: Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 4 days or refrigerate for a week. Freeze slices for longer storage.
Variations: Add ½ tsp cinnamon, chocolate chips, or drizzle with vanilla glaze for a twist.
Oil Substitution: You can substitute oil with melted butter or coconut oil for richer flavor.
Pan Size: You can use two 8x4 loaf pans; bake for 45–50 minutes instead of 35–40.