If you’re searching for a truly Southern delight that begs to be shared, you have to try Honey Butter Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread. Imagine a golden, tender loaf brimming with roasted pecans, finished with a dreamy honey butter glaze that soaks into every bite. This recipe combines comfy homestyle flavors with a touch of elegance, making it equally fit for a special occasion or a simple afternoon treat. Whether you’re looking for an irresistible brunch addition, a bake sale winner, or your new go-to edible gift, Honey Butter Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread never fails to impress—its taste is pure Southern sunshine!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Everything you need for this showstopper comes together quickly and you probably have most of it in your pantry. Each ingredient plays its part, from the crunch of pecans to the luxurious sweetness of the glaze, making Honey Butter Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread unforgettable with every slice.
- Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create that beautifully tender crumb that melts in your mouth.
- Light brown sugar: Infuses the bread with rich caramel undertones and extra moisture.
- Vegetable oil: Keeps the bake super moist and ensures a delicate texture that stays fresh for days.
- Large eggs: Binds the batter and adds richness for that signature homemade feel.
- All-purpose flour: Forms the base structure, perfectly balancing fluffiness and heartiness.
- Baking soda: Gives just the right lift so your bread rises beautifully without being dense.
- Salt: Enhances the flavor and balances the sweetness so every bite pops.
- Vanilla extract: Brings warmth and aromatic depth that makes the pecans and glaze shine.
- Chopped pecans: The star ingredient, offering crunchy, nutty flavor in every generous bite.
- Unsalted butter (for glaze): Creates a rich, creamy base for that irresistible topping.
- Honey (for glaze): Adds floral sweetness and the ultimate Southern twist.
- Granulated sugar (for glaze): Ensures the glaze sets beautifully over the warm bread for a sweet, glossy finish.
How to Make Honey Butter Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F, ensuring an even, gentle bake. Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish or two 9×5-inch loaf pans by greasing generously so your bread will release effortlessly when ready.
Step 2: Mix the Sugars and Oil
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together both the granulated sugar and light brown sugar with the vegetable oil. This sweater’s combination sets the foundation for the moist, sweet crumb that defines Honey Butter Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread. Mixing well ensures a dreamy, uniform texture throughout.
Step 3: Add the Eggs and Vanilla
Crack in your eggs one at a time, beating well after each. This step adds structure and richness. Stir in the vanilla extract for that irresistible aroma—you’ll catch sweet whiffs even before the bread hits the oven!
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, quickly whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This speedy dry mix ensures the leavening spreads evenly, giving your bread perfect rise and structure.
Step 5: Bring It All Together & Add Pecans
Gently fold the dry mixture into your wet ingredients—don’t over-stir! As soon as the batter is just combined, fold in the chopped pecans. You’ll see glorious pecan pieces dotting your batter, promising crunch in every slice.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Pour the batter evenly into your prepped pan(s) and smooth the top. Bake for 40–50 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center. Patience is hard here, but trust me—the fragrance alone is worth the wait.
Step 7: Make the Honey Butter Glaze
While the bread bakes, melt the butter in a small saucepan with the honey and granulated sugar. Let it gently bubble and stir until everything transforms into a glossy, golden syrup—about 2 to 3 minutes. This simple glaze infuses each bite with warmth and sweetness unique to Honey Butter Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread.
Step 8: Finish with the Glaze
Right as the bread emerges, still hot and golden, pour the warm honey butter glaze over the top. Let it soak in as the bread cools—this step turns a simple loaf into something divine, with a buttery sheen and sweet, flavorful crust.
How to Serve Honey Butter Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread
Garnishes
For the prettiest finish, scatter extra pecan pieces or a dusting of powdered sugar over the top once the bread is completely cool. A few whole pecans along each slice add a touch of Southern charm and highlight the nutty goodness inside.
Side Dishes
This bread loves to be paired with fresh fruit, a dollop of whipped cream, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you’re leaning into dessert vibes. For breakfast, serve it alongside scrambled eggs and crisp bacon for a sweet and savory Southern spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice Honey Butter Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread into thick pieces and wrap them in parchment for adorable edible gifts. For brunch, cut into mini cubes and serve on a platter with toothpicks and a honey drizzle—perfect for grazing. You can even toast slices lightly and top with a bit of whipped honey butter for the ultimate comfort treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After baking, let the bread cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or storing in an airtight container. At room temperature, it’ll stay moist and delightful for up to 4 days—ideal for planning ahead or savoring over several mornings.
Freezing
Honey Butter Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread freezes beautifully. Slice it first for easy grab-and-go portions, wrap each piece in plastic wrap, and store in a freezer bag. You can keep it frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight at room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating
Warm slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or pop them in a low oven until just heated through. If you love that fresh-baked feeling, add a dab of butter or honey on top before warming for extra indulgence.
FAQs
Can I use dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar?
Absolutely! Dark brown sugar will add even deeper caramel notes, though it may slightly darken the color of the bread. Either option is delicious in Honey Butter Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread.
What if I don’t have pecans?
Feel free to swap pecans for walnuts or even chopped almonds if needed. The texture and flavor will change slightly, but the bread will still taste wonderful.
Can I bake this in mini loaf pans?
Yes, you can pour the batter into mini loaf pans for perfectly portioned gifts or party favors. Just keep in mind they will bake faster, so check them around 25–30 minutes into baking.
Is the bread very sweet?
Honey Butter Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is definitely on the sweet side, especially with the honey glaze, but the salt and pecans balance it nicely. If you prefer, you can reduce the glaze for a lighter finish.
How long does the glaze take to soak in?
The glaze is best poured on while the bread is hot so it soaks in as the loaf cools. Allow at least 20–30 minutes for the bread to absorb the glaze before slicing—if you can wait that long!
Final Thoughts
Honey Butter Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread is one of those rare recipes that never fails to turn an ordinary day into something memorable. With its melt-in-your-mouth crumb, nutty pecans, and golden honey glaze, it’s Southern baking at its best. Treat yourself and your loved ones—you’ll be asked for the recipe again and again!
Print
Honey Butter Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert, Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich and sweet flavors of this Honey Butter Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread. A moist and decadent pecan bread topped with a luscious honey butter glaze, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Bread:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Honey Butter Glaze:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 325°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or two 9×5-inch loaf pans.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, brown sugar, and oil. Add eggs one at a time, beating well. Stir in vanilla.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to wet mixture. Fold in pecans.
- Bake: Pour batter into pans and bake for 40–50 minutes.
- Make Glaze: In a saucepan, combine butter, honey, and sugar. Boil until thickened.
- Glaze and Serve: Pour warm glaze over baked bread. Let cool before slicing and serving.
Notes
- This bread is moist and sweet, great for gifting or brunch.
- Can be baked in mini loaf pans for individual servings.
- Store covered at room temperature for up to 4 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 34g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
