Honey Butter Sweet Alabama Pecanbread
Honey Butter Sweet Alabama Pecanbread is a Southern classic that perfectly combines rich buttery flavor, nutty pecans, and a touch of honey sweetness. This easy yet indulgent treat is somewhere between a cake and a quick bread—moist, tender, and absolutely irresistible. Whether served warm with a pat of butter, alongside coffee, or as a holiday dessert, this pecanbread is bound to impress family and friends.
In this article, you’ll learn how to make authentic Honey Butter Sweet Alabama Pecanbread with step-by-step instructions, ingredient breakdowns, variations, and pro tips to guarantee success every time.
Ingredients for Honey Butter Sweet Alabama Pecanbread
Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this recipe:
- 1 cup chopped pecans (toasted for extra flavor)
- 2 cups self-rising flour
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine self-rising flour, sugar, and salt. Whisk well to evenly distribute the dry mixture.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, beat eggs until fluffy. Slowly add melted butter, honey, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
Step 4: Combine and Fold
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until combined, being careful not to overmix. Fold in the chopped pecans.
Step 5: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared dish and spread evenly. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Allow the pecanbread to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm, drizzled with extra honey or a pat of butter for a luxurious finish.
Ingredient Breakdown and Variations
- Pecans: Toast them before baking to enhance their nutty flavor. Substitute with walnuts or almonds if desired.
- Honey: Clover honey is traditional, but wildflower or orange blossom honey adds unique flavor.
- Flour: If you don’t have self-rising flour, use all-purpose flour and add 1½ teaspoons baking powder and ½ teaspoon baking soda.
- Butter: Brown the butter before adding for a deeper caramel-like taste.
- Add-ins: Stir in shredded coconut, mini chocolate chips, or dried cranberries for variety.
Pro Tips for Perfect Pecanbread
- Don’t overmix the batter—this keeps the bread soft and tender.
- Toast pecans lightly in a skillet before adding them to enhance flavor.
- For extra moisture, drizzle 2 tablespoons of warm honey over the pecanbread right after baking.
- Use a glass baking dish if possible—it helps bake the pecanbread more evenly.
- Let the bread rest at least 10 minutes before slicing to prevent crumbling.
Storage and Reheating
- Room Temperature: Store covered for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator: Keeps well for up to 7 days in an airtight container.
- Freezer: Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm slices in the microwave for 15–20 seconds or in a 300°F oven for 5–7 minutes.
Nutritional Information (per slice, based on 12 servings)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 365 |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Fat | 19g |
| Saturated Fat | 8g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 31g |
| Sodium | 180mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is my pecanbread too dense?
A: Overmixing the batter or adding too much flour can cause density. Mix just until combined.
Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, substitute self-rising flour with a gluten-free blend plus leavening agents.
Q: Can I reduce the sugar?
A: Yes, cut sugar by ½ cup and add ¼ cup more honey for balance.
Q: Can I use maple syrup instead of honey?
A: Absolutely. Maple syrup gives a slightly deeper flavor, but honey is more traditional.
Q: How do I serve Honey Butter Sweet Alabama Pecanbread?
A: It’s delicious as a snack cake, a breakfast bread with coffee, or a dessert topped with whipped cream or ice cream.
Final Thoughts
Honey Butter Sweet Alabama Pecanbread is a true Southern gem—rich, nutty, sweet, and deeply comforting. Its simplicity makes it perfect for weeknight baking, while its luxurious flavor ensures it shines on any holiday dessert table. Whether enjoyed warm out of the oven, paired with coffee, or stored for later, this pecanbread will win hearts at every bite.
