Sweet Alabama Bread (The Classic Southern Treat You’ll Crave Again and Again!)

My husband asks for this Sweet Alabama Bread every single month — and honestly, I can’t blame him!
It’s that irresistible mix of crunchy nuts, chewy dates, and a golden brown crust that tastes like a hug from the heart of the South.

This recipe came from my neighbor in Montgomery, Alabama, who brought it to a church potluck years ago. Everyone raved, and now it’s part of our family tradition — simple, buttery, and perfectly sweet.

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Overview of Recipe Content

What Is Sweet Alabama Bread?

Sweet Alabama Bread is a dense, moist dessert bar — part cake, part quick bread — packed with nuts and dates. It’s buttery, chewy, and full of old-fashioned Southern flavor. Perfect for brunch, coffee breaks, or gifting!

Why You’ll Love It

• Easy one-bowl recipe — no mixer needed!
• Perfectly chewy and rich with flavor.
• Stores beautifully for days.
• Makes your home smell heavenly while baking.

What It Tastes Like

Think of buttery blondies meets pecan pie. The sweet caramelized crust gives way to a chewy center filled with crunchy nuts and soft, sugary dates — pure comfort with every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

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Wet Base

• 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly
• 1 cup (200 g) light brown sugar, packed
• ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

Dry Mix

• 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt

Inclusions

• 1 cup (120 g) chopped pecans
• 1 cup (150 g) chopped dates (or use golden raisins)
• Optional: ½ cup sweetened shredded coconut

Topping (Optional but Divine)

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar for sprinkling before baking
• A pinch of flaky sea salt for balance

Tools You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Spatula or whisk
• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Parchment paper or nonstick spray

Substitutions

• Use walnuts or almonds instead of pecans.
• For a lighter version, swap half the butter with applesauce.
• Make it gluten-free with a 1:1 baking blend.

How to Make Sweet Alabama Bread

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1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk melted butter with brown sugar and white sugar until smooth and glossy.
3. Add eggs one at a time, then whisk in vanilla extract.
4. In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gently fold dry ingredients into wet mixture just until combined.
6. Stir in pecans and dates (and coconut if using).
7. Spread batter evenly into the prepared pan. Sprinkle with brown sugar and flaky salt if desired.
8. Bake 30–35 minutes until the top is golden and a toothpick comes out mostly clean (a few crumbs are perfect).
9. Cool completely before slicing into squares or bars.

Enjoy warm or room temperature with coffee or vanilla ice cream — heavenly!

What to Serve with Sweet Alabama Bread

• A strong cup of black coffee or sweet tea.
• A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream.
• A drizzle of caramel sauce or warm honey butter.

For more Southern sweets, try:

• Southern Pecan Pie Bars

Tips for Making It Perfect

• Don’t overmix once flour is added — that keeps it tender.
• Toast your pecans for deeper flavor.
• Cool completely before slicing; it firms as it sets.
• Store wrapped to keep it moist and chewy.

Storage Instructions

• Room Temperature: 3–4 days in an airtight container.
• Fridge: Up to 1 week.
• Freezer: Slice and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight.

General Information

This dessert comes straight from Alabama home kitchens — sweet, nutty, and simple. It’s often gifted during holidays or church gatherings because it travels and stores beautifully. A true Southern gem that’s been passed from generation to generation.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, the flavor deepens after a day.

2. What nuts are best?
Pecans are traditional, but walnuts or almonds work too.

3. Can I make it without dates?
Sure — replace them with raisins, chopped dried apricots, or even chocolate chips.

4. How do I make it dairy-free?
Use vegan butter or refined coconut oil.

5. Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, use ¾ cup brown sugar and ¼ cup white for a milder sweetness.

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Conclusion

Sweet Alabama Bread is the kind of bake that makes everyone feel right at home — golden, chewy, and loaded with Southern charm. One bite and you’ll understand why my husband asks for it every month!

If you loved this recipe, try my Buttermilk Pound Cake or Southern Pecan Pie Bars next!

And don’t forget to share your loaf on Pinterest — I’d love to see your Southern baking magic.

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Nutritional Information

Serving Size	Calories	Fat	Carbs	Sugar	Protein
1 square (1/16 pan)	230	12g	26g	18g	3g

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