Cinnamon Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread – A Southern Slice of Comfort

Cinnamon Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread – A Southern Slice of Comfort

When I think of Southern baking, two things come to mind: warm spices and pecans. My grandmother used to make a version of this Cinnamon Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread every Sunday morning. The scent of cinnamon wafting from the oven was our family’s alarm clock. Dense, moist, and loaded with chopped pecans, it’s a loaf that bridges seasons—delicious with iced tea in the summer or hot coffee in the winter.

This classic American recipe has deep Southern roots, combining the nutty richness of Alabama-grown pecans with the sweet spice of cinnamon. Whether it’s a breakfast bread, dessert, or snack, it brings Southern charm to every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread

• Classic Southern flavor: Sweet cinnamon, rich pecans, and a moist crumb.
• Easy one-bowl recipe: No fancy tools, no fuss.
• Perfect for all seasons: Serve warm in winter or at room temp in summer.
• Great for gifting: Wrap up a loaf for friends, holidays, or neighbors.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
• 1 cup chopped pecans (toasted for extra flavor)
• 2 large eggs
• ¾ cup buttermilk
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Optional Glaze:

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.

3. Add Pecans

Fold in chopped pecans until coated with flour. This prevents them from sinking during baking.

4. Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla. Pour wet mixture into dry and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.

5. Bake

Pour batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

6. Glaze (Optional)

In a small bowl, whisk powdered sugar with milk and extract. Drizzle over cooled bread before serving.

Pro Tips for the Best Pecan Bread

• Toast your pecans: Enhances flavor—just bake at 350°F for 6–8 minutes.
• Don’t overmix: Stir just until dry ingredients disappear for a tender crumb.
• Customize: Add chopped apples, raisins, or a pinch of nutmeg for variation.
• Double it: This bread freezes beautifully—bake two, enjoy one now, save one later.

Storage and Make-Ahead

• Room temperature: Wrap in foil or store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerate: Keeps for up to a week.
• Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and warm before serving.

How to Serve Cinnamon Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread

• For winter: Serve warm with butter and a hot drink like spiced cider.
• For summer: Slice and serve with fresh fruit or iced tea.
• For holidays: Add a maple glaze and sprinkle with extra chopped pecans.

A Taste of the South

Alabama is known for its pecan orchards, and this bread captures that nutty tradition. In true Southern style, it’s sweet, simple, and perfect for sharing. It pairs perfectly with Southern hospitality—and maybe a big porch swing.

FAQs

Can I use walnuts instead of pecans?

Yes, but for true Southern flavor, pecans are best.

What if I don’t have buttermilk?

Use ¾ cup milk mixed with 1 tbsp lemon juice or vinegar—let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

Can I make muffins instead of a loaf?

Absolutely! Spoon batter into muffin tins and bake at 350°F for 18–22 minutes