Sweet Alabama Pecanbread is one of those Southern gems that feels like it’s been passed down through generations—because it has. I first tasted a version of this chewy, buttery treat at a family reunion years ago, and I’ve been making it ever since. It’s simple, satisfying, and packed with the warm crunch of pecans. You don’t need a mixer or any fancy ingredients—just a bowl, a whisk, and a craving for something cozy. Around here in Asheville, it’s a favorite for potlucks, bake sales, or just because it’s Tuesday and you deserve something sweet.
Table of Contents
Sweet Alabama Pecanbread – Southern Favorite, Easy Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 squares 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Sweet Alabama Pecanbread is a chewy, buttery Southern dessert packed with toasted pecans. Simple ingredients, no mixer needed.
Ingredients
1 cup sugar 1 cup light brown sugar, packed 1 cup vegetable oil or melted butter 4 large eggs 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour 2 teaspoons baking powder ½ teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 2 cups chopped pecans
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 baking dish or line with parchment. 2. In a large bowl, whisk sugar, brown sugar, oil (or butter), and eggs until smooth. 3. In another bowl, stir together flour, baking powder, and salt. 4. Gradually add dry mix to wet, then stir in vanilla. 5. Fold in chopped pecans evenly. 6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top. 7. Bake for 30–35 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean. 8. Cool completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
You can toast the pecans before adding for extra flavor. Add chocolate chips, shredded coconut, or spices like cinnamon for variations. Wrap cooled slices tightly for freezing up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
How to Make Sweet Alabama Pecanbread Step-by-Step
Ingredients You’ll Need from Your Pantry
The beauty of Sweet Alabama Pecanbread is that it comes together with staple ingredients—no fancy flour blends or hard-to-find mix-ins. It’s quick, straightforward, and incredibly rewarding. Below is everything you’ll need:
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 cup vegetable oil (or melted butter for a richer flavor)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups chopped pecans
You can even toast the pecans for extra depth—though it’s not required. Want a little holiday flair? A dash of cinnamon or a sprinkle of nutmeg works beautifully here.
I often pair this bake with something seasonal like a White Chocolate Raspberry Coffee Creamer to make it feel even cozier.
Method: Easy as Mix, Pour, Bake
Here’s how to bring this Southern classic to life:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- Whisk the wet ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the sugar, brown sugar, oil (or melted butter), and eggs until smooth.
- Mix the dry ingredients: In another bowl, stir together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Combine: Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet until just mixed. Add in vanilla extract.
- Fold in pecans: Stir in the chopped pecans evenly.
- Pour & bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30–35 minutes, until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool & slice: Let cool before slicing. Best served at room temp or slightly warm.
Want to mix things up? Stir in a handful of chocolate chips for a deeper twist. Or serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a glass of Egg Nog Latte for full-on comfort.
Storing Sweet Alabama Pecanbread + Fun Flavor Twists
How to Store It Right (and Make It Last)
Sweet Alabama Pecanbread stores beautifully—if it lasts that long. Whether you’re saving a few squares for later or baking ahead for a gathering, here’s how to keep it fresh:
- Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Keep it away from heat or humidity.
- Fridge: It’ll keep for up to 1 week, but bring it to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
- Freezer: Wrap cooled slices individually in plastic wrap, then foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temp or warm gently in the microwave for 10–15 seconds.
I like serving leftovers with a hot drink and a slice of something contrasting like Dubai Chocolate Strawberry
Variations You’ll Want to Try
Once you’ve made the original, it’s hard not to start dreaming up new spins on this Southern classic. Luckily, it’s a flexible recipe:
- Chocolate Chip Version: Add ½ cup semisweet chocolate chips to the batter for a blondie-style bar.
- Maple Pecanbread: Swap ¼ cup of the sugar for real maple syrup for rich, earthy notes.
- Coconut Crunch: Stir in ½ cup shredded coconut for texture and flavor.
- Spiced Holiday Edition: Add 1 tsp cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg.
- Gluten-Free Friendly: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
You can also cut it into small squares for gifting or holiday platters. Try placing it next to Butterfinger Caramel Cheesecake Bars and Old-Fashioned Norwegian Rhubarb Cake for a vintage dessert lineup that’ll impress.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sweet Alabama Pecanbread
What is Sweet Alabama Pecanbread?
It’s a dense, chewy, pecan-filled dessert bar—somewhere between a blondie and a quick bread. It’s buttery, rich, and full of toasted pecan flavor.
Can I use walnuts instead of pecans in Alabama Pecanbread?
Yes, walnuts work well as a substitute. The flavor will be slightly different—more earthy and less sweet—but still delicious.
How should I store Sweet Alabama Pecanbread?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, in the fridge for 7 days, or freeze slices for up to 2 months.
Can I freeze Sweet Alabama Pecanbread?
Yes! Once fully cooled, wrap slices in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temp or microwave briefly before serving.
Conclusion
Sweet Alabama Pecanbread is one of those back-pocket recipes that never lets you down. It’s easy to make, endlessly satisfying, and perfect for sharing (if you can resist eating it all yourself). Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just getting your hands dusty with flour, this Southern classic belongs in your recipe rotation. I hope it brings your kitchen as much warmth and joy as it does mine.
