Honey butter sweet Alabama pecanbread is a beloved Southern dessert that combines the irresistible crunch of pecans with the moist, golden richness of a brown sugar batter. What makes this treat truly special is the warm honey butter glaze that soaks into every bite, creating a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s hard to forget.
Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or just a cozy weekend bake, this no-fuss sheet cake-style dessert is easy to prepare and deeply satisfying. With familiar ingredients and a crowd-pleasing flavor, this pecanbread has become a staple in Southern kitchens — and once you try it, you will understand why.
Ingredients
For the Pecanbread
- One cup granulated sugar
- One cup packed light brown sugar
- Four large eggs
- One teaspoon vanilla extract
- Two cups all-purpose flour
- Half teaspoon baking powder
- Half teaspoon salt
- One and one half cups chopped pecans
- One cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
For the Honey Butter Glaze
- One third cup honey
- One third cup unsalted butter
- One quarter cup heavy cream
- Pinch of salt
Preparation Time
- Preparation: 15 minutes
- Baking: 30 to 35 minutes
- Glaze preparation and finish: 10 minutes
- Cooling and soaking time: 20 minutes
- Total time: About 1 hour 15 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla until light and frothy.
- Stir in the melted butter until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until no dry streaks remain.
- Fold in the chopped pecans evenly throughout the batter.
Step 2: Bake the Pecanbread
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
- Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove from the oven and set the dish on a cooling rack.
Step 3: Make the Honey Butter Glaze
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the honey, butter, cream, and a pinch of salt.
- Stir until the butter is melted and the mixture is bubbling gently.
- Let the glaze simmer for two to three minutes, then remove from heat.
Step 4: Glaze and Soak
- While the pecanbread is still warm, poke small holes across the surface using a fork or toothpick.
- Pour the warm glaze evenly over the top. Let the cake soak for at least 15 to 20 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
- Enjoy with coffee or tea as a sweet afternoon pick-me-up.
- Wrap individual slices for homemade dessert bars at gatherings or bake sales.
- Sprinkle a bit of flaky sea salt on top before serving for a sweet-salty contrast.
Nutritional Highlights
Here’s a general breakdown of the nutrition for one serving (based on 12 equal portions from a 9×13 pan). Values may vary slightly depending on exact brands and quantities used.
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 |
| Total Fat | 26g |
| Saturated Fat | 11g |
| Cholesterol | 85mg |
| Sodium | 160mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 43g |
| Sugars | 30g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2g |
| Protein | 5g |
Key Benefits
- Pecans provide heart-healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants.
- Honey offers natural sweetness and adds moisture without refined syrups.
- Butter and eggs contribute richness and structure, enhancing flavor and texture.
Storage Tips
- Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to three days.
- Refrigerate for up to one week if needed; allow slices to come to room temperature before serving.
- To freeze, wrap individual pieces tightly and store for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Do not overbake, as the cake can become dry and dense.
- Use real butter and real honey for the glaze — substitutes will affect both flavor and consistency.
- Let the cake rest after glazing to fully absorb the topping for the best texture.
- Be sure to chop the pecans finely enough so they distribute evenly in the batter.
Honey butter sweet Alabama pecanbread is a dessert that embodies Southern charm in every slice. With its buttery crumb, nutty crunch, and golden glaze, it strikes the perfect balance between rustic and rich. Whether you are serving guests or enjoying it with family, this cake offers comfort, tradition, and unforgettable flavor.
Try it once, and it is sure to become a go-to in your dessert rotation.