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Buttermilk Sweet Alabama Pecanbread is a rich, buttery quick bread that’s packed with nutty pecans and a tender, moist crumb. This Southern classic is known for its comforting flavor, sweet aroma, and the perfect balance of soft texture and crunchy bits in every bite. Whether served as a morning treat, an afternoon snack, or a dessert, it’s a simple and satisfying bake that always hits the spot.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pecanbread brings a nostalgic, down-home flavor straight to your kitchen. The buttermilk ensures a moist and fluffy loaf, while the combination of brown sugar and pecans delivers just the right amount of sweetness and texture. It’s a one-bowl, no-fuss recipe that’s quick to throw together and easy to love. Plus, it keeps beautifully, making it great for sharing or enjoying over a few days.

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Granulated sugar
• Brown sugar
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Eggs
• Buttermilk
• Unsalted butter, melted
• Vanilla extract
• Chopped pecans

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, beat the eggs, then stir in the buttermilk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Fold in the chopped pecans evenly throughout the batter.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
7. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Bake Time: 50–60 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes

Variations

• Swap pecans for chopped walnuts or almonds if desired.
• Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice twist.
• Mix in mini chocolate chips for a dessert-style version.
• Use a muffin tin to make pecanbread muffins—bake for 18–22 minutes.

Storage/Reheating

• Store the cooled pecanbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerate for up to 1 week if you want to keep it longer.
• Freeze by wrapping the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can be stored for up to 3 months.
• To reheat, microwave individual slices for 15–20 seconds or warm them in the oven at 300°F for 5–10 minutes.

FAQs

What makes this bread “Alabama-style”?

The use of buttermilk and pecans is a hallmark of many Southern baked goods, particularly in Alabama, where pecans are a staple ingredient in sweet treats.

Can I use milk instead of buttermilk?

You can substitute buttermilk with a mix of 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice plus enough milk to make 1 cup. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes before using.

Should I toast the pecans before adding them?

Toasting the pecans adds a deeper flavor, but it’s optional. If you’re short on time, raw pecans work just fine.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking.

Why did my bread sink in the middle?

This can happen if the batter was overmixed, the oven temperature was too low, or it was underbaked. Make sure to check your oven temperature and don’t open the oven door too early.

Is this bread very sweet?

It’s moderately sweet—rich from the brown sugar and pecans, but not overly sugary. You can reduce the sugar slightly if you prefer.

Can I use oil instead of butter?

Yes, vegetable oil or melted coconut oil can be used instead of butter, though the flavor will be slightly different.

Can I add fruit to this bread?

Absolutely. Chopped apples, bananas, or even dried cranberries make great additions. Just keep the extra moisture in mind.

How do I keep the pecans from sinking?

Toss them in a bit of flour before folding into the batter. This helps suspend them evenly throughout.

What’s the best way to serve this bread?

It’s delicious warm or at room temperature, served plain or with a bit of butter, honey, or cream cheese.

Conclusion

Buttermilk Sweet Alabama Pecanbread is everything you want in a homemade treat: soft, nutty, sweet, and irresistibly moist. It’s easy to make, adaptable to your taste, and the kind of recipe that brings warmth and comfort to any occasion. Bake a loaf for yourself or share it with family and friends—it’s sure to be a hit every time.

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