Cinnamon Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread
Irresistibly moist, packed with toasted pecans, and kissed with cinnamon warmth — a Southern classic with a sweet twist!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cinnamon Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is more than just a quick bread — it’s a soft, nutty, melt-in-your-mouth treat that captures the heart of Southern hospitality. With crunchy pecans, warm cinnamon, and a perfectly balanced sweetness, this loaf is ideal for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or a cozy afternoon snack with coffee or tea.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (sifted for best texture)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar (for depth of flavor)
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp fine sea salt
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- ¾ cup buttermilk (or use milk + 1 tsp vinegar if needed)
- ½ cup vegetable oil or melted butter (for richness)
- 1½ tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1½ cups chopped pecans (preferably toasted)
- Optional: ¼ tsp ground nutmeg or allspice for added warmth
- Optional Cinnamon Sugar Topping
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper. You can also use mini loaf pans or a bundt pan for variation.
Step 2: Toast the Pecans (Recommended)
Place chopped pecans on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 5–7 minutes, just until fragrant. Let them cool while preparing the batter. This step enhances the nutty flavor and adds crunch.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
- Flour
- Granulated sugar
- Brown sugar
- Baking powder
- Baking soda
- Salt
- Cinnamon
- (Optional: Nutmeg or allspice)
Make sure the mixture is well combined and there are no clumps of sugar or flour.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, whisk:
- Eggs
- Buttermilk
- Oil (or melted butter)
- Vanilla extract
Whisk until smooth and slightly frothy.
Step 5: Make the Batter
Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients.
Stir gently using a rubber spatula or wooden spoon until just combined — do not overmix. The batter will be thick.
Fold in 1¼ cups of the chopped pecans (reserve ¼ cup for topping or garnishing).
Step 6: Add Cinnamon Sugar Topping (Optional)
Mix the sugar and cinnamon for the topping in a small bowl. Sprinkle it generously over the batter once poured into the pan. This creates a sweet crust on top.
Step 7: Bake
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Mini loaves may bake in 30–35 minutes. Bundt pans may take longer — 55 to 65 minutes.
Step 8: Cool & Slice
Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10–15 minutes. Then carefully remove it and let it cool completely on a wire rack. Once fully cooled, slice thick and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with a pat of butter or honey.
- Add a dusting of powdered sugar or a light glaze.
- Toast a slice and spread with cream cheese for breakfast.
- Enjoy with a cup of chai, coffee, or spiced tea.
- Storage Tips
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
- Freeze slices individually for quick grab-and-go snacks (wrap in plastic then foil).
- Warm in the microwave or toaster oven before serving for the best texture.
- FAQ
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Q: Can I substitute the pecans?
You can use walnuts or omit the nuts entirely, though the pecans are traditional and delicious.
Q: What if I don’t have buttermilk?
Mix ¾ cup milk with 1 tsp lemon juice or vinegar. Let sit 5–10 minutes.
Why It’s Called “Alabama” Pecan Bread
This classic Southern treat gets its name from the abundant pecan trees of Alabama, a state famous for its pecan harvests and love for old-fashioned baked goods. It’s a tribute to home-baked traditions and the flavors of the American South.