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Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread

Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread

A dense, moist Southern classic packed with chopped pecans and two kinds of sugar. One bowl, no mixer, ready in 45 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 32 minutes
Cooling Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 14 bars
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 380
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup granulated sugar white sugar for sweetness and structure
  • 1 cup brown sugar packed; adds caramel depth and moisture
  • 4 large eggs beaten; room temperature recommended
  • 1 cup vegetable oil keeps the bread moist and tender
  • 1 1/2 cups self-rising flour already contains baking powder and salt
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract pure vanilla for best flavor
  • 2 cups pecans finely chopped; toast first for deeper flavor

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  2. Optional but recommended: Spread the chopped pecans on a dry baking sheet and toast in the preheated oven for 6 to 8 minutes. Remove and let cool slightly.
  3. In a medium bowl, use a wooden spoon to stir together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, beaten eggs, and vegetable oil until smooth.
  4. Stir in the self-rising flour and vanilla extract. Mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
  5. Fold in the chopped pecans and stir until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
  6. Spoon the batter into the prepared pan and spread it out evenly.
  7. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until the top is deep golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs. If the top browns too quickly, loosely tent with aluminum foil around the 20-minute mark.
  8. Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for at least 10 to 15 minutes before cutting. The center will firm up as it cools.

Notes

Flour substitute: If you only have all-purpose flour, add 2 tsp baking powder and 1/2 tsp salt per 1 1/2 cups of flour to replicate self-rising flour.
Nut swaps: Finely chopped walnuts or almonds work well as a substitute for pecans.
Add-ins: Fold in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or shredded coconut along with the pecans for a fun variation.
Spiced version: Add 1/2 tsp cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg for a warm, cozy flavor.
Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Freeze individual wrapped bars for up to 2 months. The bread tastes even better on day two!