Alabama-Style Sweet Pecan Bread

Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Slowly pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently using a spatula until just combined. Do not overmix—overmixing can make the bread dense instead of tender and fluffy. The batter should be slightly thick but pourable.

Step 5: Add the Sweet Pecan Topping

In a small bowl, mix together:

• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp melted butter
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon (optional)

Sprinkle half of this mixture into the bottom of your prepared loaf pan before adding the batter. This creates a subtle layer of pecan sweetness at the bottom of the bread.

Step 6: Pour the Batter

Pour the batter evenly into the loaf pan over the pecan layer. Sprinkle the remaining pecan topping on top of the batter for a crunchy, caramelized crust after baking.

Step 7: Bake

Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown, and the aroma of pecans will fill your kitchen—a hallmark of Southern baking.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve slightly warm with a pat of butter, or enjoy it plain for a naturally sweet, nutty treat.

Tips for Perfect Alabama-Style Sweet Pecan Bread

1. Use fresh pecans for the richest flavor; toasted pecans add an extra layer of nuttiness.
2. Buttermilk is key for the tender texture—it reacts with the baking soda for a perfect rise.
3. Don’t skip the topping layer—it caramelizes beautifully, giving the bread that signature Southern crunch.
4. Make it extra festive by drizzling a simple glaze of powdered sugar and milk over the top.

This Alabama-Style Sweet Pecan Bread balances sweet, nutty, and buttery flavors in every bite. It’s a perfect way to bring a taste of the South to your kitchen, whether for a family breakfast, a cozy afternoon snack, or a holiday brunch.

If you want, I can also create a visually appealing step-by-step picture guide for this bread, like a mini recipe photo series, so it’s even easier to follow.

Do you want me to do that?