Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread

by

A Southern Classic with Warm Spices and Buttery Pecan Crust

Introduction

This Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is a rich, moist quick bread infused with cinnamon, nutmeg, and toasted pecans—a true taste of Southern hospitality. Unlike traditional pecan bread, this version features a brown sugar-pecan topping that caramelizes into a crunchy, buttery crust, making every slice irresistible.

Perfect for holiday breakfasts, afternoon tea, or gifting, this recipe balances warm spices, nutty crunch, and tender crumb in every bite. The use of buttermilk ensures a moist texture, while Alabama-grown pecans (if available) add authentic regional flair.

Ingredients

For the Bread

  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 tsp ground nutmeg
  • ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk, room temperature
  • 1 cup (115g) chopped pecans

For the Topping

  • ½ cup (100g) packed brown sugar
  • ½ cup (60g) chopped pecans
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

(Optional: 1 tbsp bourbon or ½ tsp orange zest for extra flavor)

Instructions

1. Prep & Preheat

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter.

2. Make the Batter

  1. Whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a bowl.
  2. In another bowl, beat butter and granulated sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla.
  3. Alternate adding dry ingredients and buttermilk, mixing just until combined. Fold in 1 cup pecans.

3. Prepare the Topping

  1. Mix brown sugar, ½ cup pecans, and melted butter in a small bowl.

4. Assemble & Bake

  1. Pour batter into the pan. Sprinkle topping evenly over the batter.
  2. Bake for 50–60 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean (cover with foil if topping browns too quickly).
  3. Cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

Tips for Success

✔ Toast pecans beforehand for deeper flavor (350°F for 5–7 minutes).
✔ Room-temperature ingredients ensure even mixing.
✔ Don’t overmix—this keeps the bread tender.
✔ Storage: Wrap in foil and keep at room temperature for 3 days or freeze for 1 month.

Serving Suggestions

  • Warm with whipped honey butter.
  • As French toast with maple syrup.
  • With coffee or sweet tea for a Southern-style snack.

Conclusion

This Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is a heirloom-worthy recipe that captures the essence of Southern baking. The spiced, nutty crumb and caramelized pecan topping make it a standout treat for any occasion.

Variation: Add ½ cup diced apples to the batter for a fruity twist!

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